Associate Director, General Counsel

Cresset
Chicago, IL

About the Company



Cresset is a firm built by clients, for clients. As an independent, award-winning multi-family office and private investment firm, we are reimagining the way wealth is experienced. Our purpose is to help ensure that both wealth and life are fully optimized*—integrated, intentional, and aligned with each client’s vision of success. We provide access to the caliber of talent, ideas, and investment opportunities typically available to the largest single-family offices and institutions. Our approach is personalized, entrepreneurial, and client-first. Proudly owned by our clients and employees, Cresset was built to endure. We are creating a 100+ year firm—one focused on delivering an exceptional experience, not only for the families we serve but for the team that serves them. Our commitment to clients has earned recognition by Barron’s and Forbes, listing us among the nation’s top RIA firms. Cresset is guided by long-term relationships, shared success, and a belief that wealth should serve a life well lived. Learn more at www.cressetcapital.com.



About the Role



Cresset Capital is seeking a highly motivated and business-oriented associate general counsel with 3 years of experience to join our in-house legal team. The ideal candidate is practical, detail-oriented, and comfortable working in a fast-paced financial services environment.



Responsibilities



  • Mergers & Acquisitions: Support acquisitions and strategic investments from initial diligence through closing and post-closing integration; conduct and manage legal due diligence; draft, review, and negotiate transaction documents including purchase agreements, and ancillary agreements; coordinate with outside counsel and internal stakeholders throughout transaction processes.
  • Commercial Contracts & Vendor Agreements: Draft, review, and negotiate a wide range of commercial agreements, including vendor agreements, technical and SaaS agreements, consulting and professional services agreements, and confidentiality agreements; advise stakeholders on risk mitigation and contract strategy; develop and improve standard contract templates and processes.
  • Corporate Governance: Assist with governance documentation; support corporate entity management; maintain corporate records; advise on governance best practices and regulatory considerations relevant to financial services.
  • Compliance & Risk: Ensure compliance with federal and state laws and regulations; mitigate legal risks to the company.
  • General Legal Support: Provide day-to-day legal advice to business stakeholders; collaborate with compliance, finance, human resources, and operations on cross-functional initiatives.


Qualifications



  • J.D. from an accredited law school.
  • Active bar membership in good standing.
  • Approximately 3 years of relevant experience at a law firm and/or in-house legal department.
  • Experience in M&A and commercial contracting required.
  • Experience working in a regulated industry required, with exposure to financial services industry preferred.
  • Strong analytical, negotiation, and written/verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously.
  • Strong business judgment and practical critical thinking skills.
  • Ability to operate independently while collaborating effectively with business stakeholders.


Required Skills


  • Experience in M&A and commercial contracting.
  • Strong analytical and negotiation skills.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.


Preferred Skills


  • Experience in a regulated industry, preferably financial services.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.