Managing Director, Originations

Job Description

Job Description

Intro description:

Legalist is a tech-enabled alternative asset manager that uses proprietary data-driven origination to invest in uncorrelated legal and government-payment assets. Founded out of Y Combinator in 2016, Legalist manages over $1.7 billion for endowments, foundations, and family offices.

We are seeking an experienced private credit originator to source and term sheet lending opportunities for lower middle-market companies. This individual will be responsible for developing new borrower and intermediary relationships, managing the lending process through executed term sheets, and becoming a trusted financing partner within our target markets.

The ideal candidate has an established network of referral sources and borrowers and has demonstrated success originating asset-based, cash flow, or specialty finance transactions in the $5 million to $50 million range.

Responsibilities

• Source new lending opportunities through direct borrower outreach and referral networks.
• Develop relationships with investment banks, commercial banks, private equity sponsors, consultants, accountants, attorneys, and other intermediaries.
• Lead initial borrower discussions and determine strategic fit.
• Structure financing solutions that satisfy borrower needs while meeting fund investment objectives.
• Prepare and negotiate indicative terms, letters of intent, and term sheets.
• Maintain an active pipeline of qualified lending opportunities and provide accurate forecasting.
• Develop long-term relationships that generate repeat business and referrals.
• Work collaboratively with investment professionals to ensure a smooth transition from origination through closing.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience originating commercial lending or private credit transactions.
• Demonstrated history of originating loans in the $5 million to $50 million range.
• Proven ability to execute a high annual volume of term sheets and maintain a robust pipeline.
• Established network of borrower, intermediary, sponsor, and banking relationships.
• Strong understanding of credit structures, collateral, loan documentation, and commercial finance.
• Excellent negotiation and relationship management skills.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating closely with underwriting and portfolio management teams.

Preferred Experience

Experience in one or more of the following:

• Direct lending
• Private credit
• Asset-based lending
• Specialty finance
• Commercial banking
• Structured finance