Progressive legal careers

Peerpoint is Allen & Overy's (A&O) global platform for self-directed consultant lawyers who want to access the best work, clients, resources and bespoke support, whilst working on assignments with A&O or directly with clients as a legal consultant.

We are working with some of the region's leading international banks, corporates and sovereign wealth funds.

Typical assignments based in Abu Dhabi or Dubai are 6 months in length. Consultants would need to be able to commit to on-site client assignments in Abu Dhabi, so will ideally reside in Abu Dhabi or Dubai.

Role Profile
We are currently looking for Banking & Finance Lawyers with 4-10 years’ top-tier post-qualification experience, particularly in areas such as Corporate & Investment banking and regulatory/Compliance.

Examples of recent opportunities
6 month Contract with a leading global financial institution requires an experienced legal professional to join its in-house team, providing legal support across its corporate and investment banking operations in the Middle East**.**

Key Responsibilities:

• Advising on day-to-day business activities and legal/regulatory matters across the region
• Drafting and negotiating client documentation, including bilateral and syndicated credit facilities, trade finance agreements, working capital loans, guarantees, and collateral arrangements
• Developing template and bespoke documentation for both conventional and Islamic financial products
• Supporting M&A, capital markets, payments, trading, and securities services matters
• Assisting with new product launches and governance/management issues

6 month Contract with a leading financial institution in the United Arab Emirates, with a proud heritage spanning several decades. As a systemically important bank in the region
Reporting to the General Counsel, you will play a pivotal role in supporting our Corporate and Investment Banking division, advising on a broad range of complex financing transactions and strategic initiatives. This is an exceptional opportunity for a high-calibre lawyer to contribute to landmark deals in one of the world's most dynamic financial centres.

Key Responsibilities:

• Draft, review, and negotiate financing documentation, including:

  • Syndicated and bilateral loan facilities
  • Islamic finance structures (Murabaha, Ijara, Sukuk)
  • Trade finance instruments
  • Project finance arrangements

• Advise internal stakeholders on legal and regulatory risks

• Ensure transactional compliance with UAE law, DIFC regulations, and applicable international standards

• Manage relationships with external counsel, overseeing quality and cost-effectiveness of legal services

• Support regulatory compliance, providing guidance on:

  • UAE Central Bank regulations
  • Anti-money laundering legislation
  • Sanctions frameworks

• Assist with corporate governance matters

• Contribute to the development of internal policies and procedures

What makes consulting with Peerpoint different?
A Peerpoint career offers something truly distinctive in today's legal market. For more than ten years, we've been at the forefront of establishing legal consulting as a genuinely respected alternative to traditional private practice and in-house positions. Backed by the strength and resources of A&O Shearman, we provide one of the most comprehensive support frameworks available.

Empowering your development – our seasoned team is here to guide you every step of the way. You'll enjoy full access to A&O Shearman's learning programmes, professional development initiatives and networking opportunities, including the chance to expand your capabilities through A&O Shearman's Advanced Delivery & Solutions businesses.

Only the best for you – we connect you with the world's most prestigious organisations and forward-thinking opportunities, matching you with roles that align perfectly with your ambitions. Whilst on assignment, you'll benefit from direct access to A&O Shearman partners, professional support lawyers and comprehensive knowledge resources.

Let your priorities lead – achieving the right work-life balance has never mattered more. Whether you're looking to dedicate time to personal interests, be present for family, or take extended breaks to explore the world, we offer the flexibility to shape your career around what matters most to you.

Futureproof your career – our team provides tailored coaching and mentoring to help navigate the many paths available for your professional growth. By truly understanding your aspirations and offering guidance at every stage, we ensure you can thrive both now and in the years ahead.