Aviation Finance Partner (Middle East / London)

The client keeps this search open for the right practice, not to a published deadline. Conversations can start at any point in your own timeline.

Our client is a leading global law firm with a sector-focused aerospace practice spanning finance and leasing, disputes, regulatory, and commercial work. With a major growth initiative underway, they are looking to rebuild and expand their aviation finance practice in the Middle East, with a preference for Dubai, though a London-based candidate with a strong Middle East practice would also be considered.

The role involves leading and developing the aviation finance and asset-backed finance practice in the region, working across bank and lessor clients on transactions ranging from big-ticket financings to portfolio trades of 20-30 aircraft. The role is open at partner level, junior partner/counsel level, and senior associate/managing associate level for candidates with partnership aspirations.

The ideal candidate will have a strong reputation in aviation finance, with experience on the lessor and bank side. A pure aviation finance background is not essential—candidates with broader banking and asset finance experience (including ship, energy, or commodity finance) are welcome, though a track record in aviation is highly desirable. The platform is collaborative, with a culture of sharing billings and origination, and is well-supported by a multidisciplinary team of finance lawyers already in the region.

This is an exceptional opportunity to build a practice with a firm that retains significant client relationships and offers a clear path to partnership without the pressure of US firm hours.

• Significant experience in aviation finance and asset-backed finance, ideally with lessor and bank clients
• Strong client relationships and a portable book of business
• Ability to work across the Middle East region, with a preference for Dubai (Riyadh and Abu Dhabi also considered)
• Collaborative and team-oriented approach, with a willingness to integrate into a cross-referral culture
• Willingness to lead and grow the practice in the region
• Open to team hires (preferred)
• For senior associate/managing associate candidates: aspiration to partnership

Conversations stay confidential and nothing is shared with the firm without your explicit approval.