About this role
We are seeking a Bengoshi Senior Associate to join our leading Private Equity and M&A practice in Tokyo.
You will work on high-profile, cross-border transactions, advising global and domestic clients on complex investments into and out of Japan. This role offers significant client exposure, early responsibility, and the opportunity to work closely with our international network on market-defining deals.
Key Areas of Work
Advising on private and public M&A transactions, with a strong emphasis on private equityActing for global and domestic private equity sponsors on:Growth and pre-IPO investmentsLeveraged buyoutsMinority and control investmentsAuction sale processes and exitsSupporting strategic joint ventures and corporate investmentsWorking across a broad range of sectors including energy & infrastructure (particularly renewables), technology, healthcare, real estate, industrials and fundsCollaborating closely with colleagues across jurisdictions on multi-jurisdictional transactions involving JapanKey Responsibilities
Take a lead role in executing complex transactions, managing multiple workstreams with increasing autonomy (particularly at Senior Associate level)Provide practical, commercial and solutions-oriented advice to a sophisticated international client baseDraft, review and negotiate transaction documents to a high standardAct as a key point of contact for Japan-related aspects of cross-border dealsBuild and maintain strong client relationships, contributing to business development initiativesSupport and mentor junior lawyers where appropriateWhy Join Us
Work on market-leading private equity and M&A transactions with global impactCollaborate with top-tier practitioners across our international platformBenefit from high-quality training, structured career progression, and early responsibilityBe part of a dynamic, collaborative and internationally focused Tokyo team Qualified Bengoshi in Japan4–8 years PQE Strong experience in M&A and/or private equity transactions, ideally with cross-border exposureExcellent drafting, negotiation and analytical skillsStrong Japanese and English communication skills Experience advising private equity sponsors on inbound and outbound investmentsExposure to auction processes and complex deal execution structuresPreferably experience in sectors such as energy & infrastructure, technology, or healthcareCommercially minded, proactive and solutions-drivenAble to operate independently while collaborating effectively across global teamsStrong organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities in fast-paced transactionsMotivated to develop client relationships and contribute to business growthA team player with leadership potential At Clifford Chance, we understand that our true asset is our people. Inclusion is good for our team and their families, our firm and society.
We are committed to treating all employees and applicants fairly and equally regardless of their gender, gender identity and expression, marital or civil partnership status, race, colour, national or ethnic origin, social or economic background, disability, religious belief, sexual orientation, or age. This applies to recruitment and selection, terms and conditions of employment including pay, promotion, training, transfer and every other aspect of employment.
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Our goal is to deliver an equality of opportunity, an equality of aspiration and an equality of experience to everyone who works in our firm.
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