Founded in 1911, Bessemer Securities Corporation (BSC) is a private family investment company (also called a “family office”) owned by descendants, and trusts for the benefit of the descendants, of Henry Phipps. The Company, which is composed of approximately 25 professionals working in finance, operations, legal and Bessemer Investors, engages in a variety of investment activities and maintains a diverse portfolio. Bessemer Trust, a leading multifamily office with a shared history, provides office facilities, banking and business services to our Company, including information technology and human resources support.
Role Description: Assistant General Counsel
Bessemer Securities is a private family investment company founded in 1911 with a diverse portfolio. We are hiring an Assistant General Counsel to advise on day-to-day legal matters across all areas of the firm’s business and operations, reporting directly to the General Counsel. This is a hands-on role and an ideal opportunity for an intellectually curious attorney, comfortable working both independently and collaboratively in a small team environment. As the sole attorney next to the General Counsel, effective candidates will be self-starters with a pragmatic sense of commercial judgment.
Responsibilities
Investments:
- Support all aspects of the firm’s direct and third-party investment activities across venture capital, private equity, alternatives, and public equities (e.g., legal diligence, NDAs, LPAs and side letters, subscription materials, KYC/AML).
Compliance:
- Monitor the regulatory environment and advise on trends, risks, and applicable laws, regulations, and guidance. Assist with regulatory filings (e.g., HSR, Section 13F/13H) and compliance with family office exemptions under the Investment Advisers Act, Investment Company Act, CFTC rules, and related regimes.
Corporate Governance:
- Assist with entity management and corporate secretary matters (e.g., minutes and resolutions, board and shareholder reporting, entity formation and dissolution, and shareholder and operating agreements).
Employment Matters:
- In partnership with Human Resources, advise on employment and benefits matters (e.g., offer and separation letters, NDAs, benefit plan documents and communications, incentive compensation, and policies).
General Corporate:
- Support strategic business initiatives (e.g., tax planning, technology and operations initiatives). Negotiate and advise on leases, vendor agreements, engagement letters, credit facilities, and insurance arrangements.
Litigation:
- Oversee litigation matters and coordinate with external litigation counsel.
External Advisors:
- Assist with the selection and management of external counsel and advisors.
Experience and Skills
- Minimum 5+ years working at a law firm or in-house with exposure to relevant practice areas (e.g., private funds, M&A, corporate, securities, regulatory, tax)
- Prior family office experience/exposure ideal but not required
- Member in good standing of an appropriate state bar (New York desirable)
- Familiarity with securities laws (e.g., Investment Company Act, Investment Advisers Act) and knowledge of private equity and venture capital industry is ideal
- Excellent written, analytical, and verbal communication skills; able to give clear, concise, and actionable analysis and recommendations about complex issues
- High level of integrity and professionalism
- Ability to work well in a small team environment
- Ability to manage a wide range of tasks and prioritize effectively
Bessemer is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment. We encourage candidates of all backgrounds to apply.
The base salary range for this position is $275,000 - $325,000 per year. This range reflects the minimum and maximum base salary we reasonably expect to pay for this role. In addition, this position may be eligible to participate in the relevant business unit’s incentive compensation plan, and other compensation programs as applicable. Eligible employees may participate in a 401(k) program with a generous profit-sharing contribution, medical, prescription dental, and vision coverage; life insurance; disability coverage; paid holidays; vacation; and sick time, subject to plan terms and Company policies.