VP, Legal - Aircraft Leasing

Vice President Legal — Global Aircraft Lessor

Our client is a well-established global aircraft leasing business in Dublin.

They are now looking to hire a VP Legal to play a central role in supporting the execution of aircraft and engine transactions.

Key Points

• 5+ years PQE in aircraft leasing or aviation finance
• Law firm (asset finance/aviation practice) OR in-house experience
• This role sits at VP level

The Role

You will be a key legal lead on complex, cross-border aviation transactions from documentation through to closing. Sitting within a specialist legal team, you will work closely with technical, credit, finance, and origination colleagues and manage external advisors across multiple jurisdictions.

Responsibilities (a detailed JD is available)

• Lead transactions through the full documentation phase to contract signature and closing
• Advise on, structure, draft, negotiate, and execute aircraft leasing and financing transactions, including cross-border lease agreements, sale and purchase agreements, lease restructurings, novations, and financing arrangements
• Act as key point of contact in negotiations with airlines, banks, aircraft buyers and sellers, manufacturers, and maintenance providers
• Lead deal teams and coordinate input from internal departments and external advisors into transaction negotiation and documentation

Requirements

• Qualified solicitor or barrister with a minimum of 5 years' PQE in aircraft leasing or aviation finance
• Strong transactional background with hands-on experience across aviation leasing documentation
• Solid understanding of airline economics, aircraft types, and the global leasing market
• Proven ability to manage multiple transactions simultaneously and to tight deadlines
• Strong interpersonal and stakeholder engagement skills at senior level

Please reach out to Sarah Kelly, Partner, The Panel, to discuss.