Legal Assistant/Paralegal
First Manhattan is seeking an experienced Legal Assistant or Paralegal to join our in-house Legal team. This is a unique opportunity to work closely with two in-house attorneys and a dedicated six-person Compliance team. This role will provide critical support across corporate governance, contracts, regulatory matters, and administrative functions. We are looking for someone who thrives in a collaborative, team-oriented environment and values a work culture grounded in collegiality and mutual respect.
The ideal candidate is not only highly organized and tech-savvy, but also a strong communicator and team player who is able to build relationships across departments, contributing to the Firm’s inclusive and cooperative culture. This is a hands-on role with significant responsibility and visibility, offering ample opportunities for professional growth and advancement.
Key responsibilities:
Corporate Governance
- Support all aspects of corporate governance for the Firm and its affiliated entities, including:
- Preparation and maintenance of board and committee materials, resolutions, minutes, and written consents
- Management of entity records, minute books, and corporate filings
- Coordination of annual meetings, board calendars, and governance documentation
- Assist with formation, maintenance, and dissolution of legal entities, including coordination with outside service providers and registered agents
Contracts
- Assist attorneys with reviewing, organizing, and administering a wide range of contracts, including vendor and service provider agreements, NDAs, inter-affiliate agreements, client-facing agreements, and employment-related legal documents
- Manage contract workflows, including tracking approvals, execution, renewals, and key terms
- Maintain and update contract and legal matter databases, ensuring all records are accurate and well-organized
General Legal Support & Legal Operations
- Conduct legal and regulatory research as requested
- Coordinate with outside counsel, consultants, and vendors
- Support process improvements and technology implementations within the Legal and Compliance functions, with a focus on automation, legal document management, and AI-based capabilities
- Organize and maintain a virtual law library and legal document repository
- Handle scheduling and other legal and administrative tasks as assigned
Regulatory & Compliance Support
- Assist with regulatory filings and ongoing compliance obligations for registered investment advisers and related entities
- Coordinate with the Compliance team on regulatory exams, audits, and information requests
- Track regulatory deadlines, reporting requirements, and internal compliance initiatives
- Support the organization and maintenance of regulatory records, policies, and procedures in line with Firm policies and regulatory requirements
Qualifications and experience:
- 5–8 years of experience as a legal assistant or paralegal, preferably in-house at a financial services, investment management, or professional services firm
- Strong experience in corporate governance and entity management
- Familiarity with regulatory frameworks applicable to wealth management or investment advisory firms is strongly preferred
- Proficiency in using legal and compliance technology solutions, including contract management systems, document automation platforms, and emerging AI tools for legal research and document review
- Paralegal certification is a plus, but not required
- Bachelor's degree from a selective university or college is required. A focus in legal studies, business, or a related field is a plus
Skills and attributes:
- Collaborative Team Player: A genuine commitment to working collaboratively with colleagues across the Legal, Compliance, Technology, Operations, Finance, and HR teams, as well as business stakeholders
- Tech-Saavy: Comfortable using legal and compliance technology, such as contract management systems, compliance tracking tools, and legal research platforms; interest in AI applications in legal and compliance workflows
- Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- High level of professionalism, discretion, and judgment
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and legal or contract management systems
Compensation:
The position offers cash compensation consisting of a base salary range of $90 – 130k plus a performance-based bonus, depending upon the individual’s performance.
Work authorization:
First Manhattan will not sponsor any new visa applications going forward.
First Manhattan is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. The Firm and its affiliates do not discriminate in employment because of race, creed, national origin, religion, age, color, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, citizenship status or protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by local, state, or federal laws, rules, or regulations.