Business Associate Attorney (Corporate / M&A)

Direct Counsel is seeking a Corporate Associate Attorney with 3–6 years of experience to join a highly regarded corporate practice representing public and private companies in sophisticated business transactions. This is an outstanding opportunity for an attorney looking to build a diverse transactional practice while working closely with experienced partners on complex domestic and cross-border matters.

The ideal candidate will have significant experience handling mergers and acquisitions, private equity transactions, corporate governance, and general commercial matters, with the ability to independently manage transactions and maintain strong client relationships.

Locations

• Cincinnati, OH
• Columbus, OH

Responsibilities

• Represent public and private companies in a broad range of corporate transactions.
• Manage mergers and acquisitions from initial due diligence through closing.
• Draft, review, and negotiate:
  • Purchase agreements
  • Ancillary transaction documents
  • Commercial agreements
  • Corporate governance documents
• Conduct legal due diligence and prepare comprehensive diligence reports.
• Advise clients on:
  • Private equity transactions
  • Growth equity investments
  • Joint ventures
  • General corporate matters
  • Capital markets transactions
• Serve as a primary point of contact for clients and manage day-to-day transaction requirements.
• Coordinate with attorneys across multiple offices on complex, multi-jurisdictional transactions.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to ensure efficient execution of transactions.

Qualifications

• J.D. from an accredited law school with a strong academic record.
• Active admission to the Ohio Bar.
• 3–6 years of corporate transactional experience.
• Experience handling:
  • Public and private M&A
  • Corporate transactions
  • Commercial contracts
  • Due diligence
• Ability to independently manage transactions from inception through closing.
• Excellent drafting, negotiation, analytical, and communication skills.
• Strong client service orientation and project management abilities.
• Ability to thrive in a collaborative, team-oriented environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with private equity, joint ventures, or capital markets transactions.
• Prior experience at an Am Law 100 or Am Law 200 law firm.
• Demonstrated ability to balance multiple sophisticated transactions while maintaining exceptional client service.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive compensation based on experience and qualifications.
• Performance- and hours-based bonus opportunities.
• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Ongoing professional development and mentorship.
• Long-term advancement opportunities within a nationally recognized corporate practice.

Why This Opportunity

This position offers the opportunity to work on sophisticated, high-value corporate transactions for an impressive client base while collaborating with experienced attorneys across a national platform. Attorneys enjoy meaningful responsibility, direct client interaction, strong mentorship, and the opportunity to develop a well-rounded transactional practice with clear opportunities for long-term professional growth.

Direct Counsel is committed to connecting exceptional legal talent with premier legal employers and fostering inclusive hiring practices.