Merton Lawyers, based in Hawthorn, is a boutique commercial law firm providing strategic, tailored legal solutions to clients across diverse industries, both in Australia and internationally. Our work sits at the intersection of law and business — and we are proud to be at the forefront of innovation through our initiatives such as Project Frontier and Project Odyssey helping us be a catalyst for change in the startup and venture capital ecosystem here in Australia.

Are you a commercially minded lawyer seeking:

• Exposure to interesting, complex, strategic commercial matters.

• Direct access to Partners and senior lawyers to fast-track your development. 

• A collaborative, results-driven and supportive team that values initiative and excellence.

What you will do:

You will play a key role in delivering high-quality advice and legal services across a range of commercial matters and transactions. Your work will include:

• advising clients on transactions including M&A, debt and equity capital raising and solvent restructuring;

• reviewing, drafting and negotiating commercial contracts across a broad range of industries and verticals;

• preparing and delivering technically adept legal advice balanced against commercial objectives;

• participate in business development activities and develop professionally.

What we are looking for:

We are looking for a lawyer who can: 

• think entrepreneurially;

• extend beyond just black letter law and possessing a genuine interest in client outcomes; and

• demonstrate strong written and verbal communication skills to develop and deliver clear, commercial legal advice. 

You will need to be admitted to practice in Australia with no supervision condition on your practising certificate.

Experience:

Ideally you will have approximately three years’ post-admission experience in a legal firm with a focus on commercial, corporate or litigation areas. Candidates with slightly less experience but a strong foundation in commercial law and a demonstrated interest in this area are encouraged to apply.

How to Apply:

To apply, please email your resume, cover letter, and academic transcript to anthony.curtin@mertonlawyers.com.au. For a confidential discussion about this opportunity, contact Anthony Curtin at 9645 9500.  

Application Deadline:  Friday 15 August 2025

Merton Lawyers is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in the workplace. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and experiences.

Merton Lawyers provide strategic, tailored legal services to companies and individuals across all industries, both locally and internationally. Our unique perspective is informed by experience beyond law. Our vast commercial knowledge positions the firm at the dynamic intersection of law and business.

We are proud to have developed Project Frontier, a cutting-edge initiative that connects Australian startups with the best US lawyers in Emerging Companies and Venture Capital. Launched in Silicon Valley, Project Frontier has expanded to Los Angeles and New York, and currently supports over 150 companies.

About The Role

We are seeking a dynamic Partner to lead and grow our Emerging Growth Companies & Venture Capital Practice. This is an exceptional opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the Australian startup ecosystem. As a Partner, you will leverage your expertise, networks, and leadership to further develop your career and elevate the firm's position as a market leader in the space.

The scope of responsibilities include:

• Client Advisory: Act as a trusted advisor to founders, investors, and venture capital firms, providing strategic and commercial legal advice on complex transactions.

• Deal Leadership: Oversee and lead M&A and venture capital transactions, including drafting definitive transaction agreements, managing negotiations, and guiding cross-border deals.

• Mentoring and Developing Talent to achieve high performance and alignment with the firm’s values

• Business Development: Drive business growth through networking, industry engagement, and thought leadership.

• Collaborative Initiatives: Work with the leadership team to co-create new service offerings, including expanding Project Frontier and developing tailored solutions for venture capitalists.

Qualifications & Experience

• Proven track record as a senior lawyer or Partner, specializing in Emerging Growth Companies, Venture Capital, or M&A.

• Significant experience leading strategic transactions, including drafting agreements, managing teams, and overseeing negotiations.

• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain strong client relationships, with a focus on founders, investors, and high-growth companies.

• Established network within the startup, venture capital, or corporate ecosystem in Australia or internationally.

• Expertise in capital raising, employee share schemes, and cross-border transactions.

• Strong delegation and supervisory skills, with a proven ability to develop and lead high-performing teams.

How to Apply

If you are a legal leader passionate about innovation, startups, and venture capital, we invite you to apply. You will enjoy working as part of a firm that values collaboration, teamwork, mutual respect, and excellence.

For a preliminary confidential discussion please contact Anthony Curtin, Managing Partner on 0419 568 460 or email anthony.curtin@mertonlawyers.com.au with the subject line: EOI Partner – Emerging Growth Companies

Merton Lawyers is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in the workplace. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and experiences.