Bengoshi Associate, Real Estate practice, Tokyo

Responsibilities

• Advise foreign and domestic investors on Japanese real estate transactions, including acquisitions, asset management, and exits.
• Lead and support transactions involving TMK (Tokutei Mokuteki Kaisha) and GK‑TK (Godo Kaisha - Tokumei Kumiai) investment structures, providing end‑to‑end legal support.
• Interpret and advise on regulatory requirements under the TMK Law, including asset liquidation structures and statutory compliance.
• Draft, review and negotiate documentation related to real estate investments, including trust beneficial interest transactions, financing arrangements, JV agreements, and asset‑level documentation.
• Coordinate due diligence processes and prepare or supervise preparation of related reports.
• Manage multiple workstreams and liaise with overseas offices and cross‑border teams to deliver integrated advice.
• Support business development initiatives and contribute to knowledge sharing within the Real Estate and Capital Markets practices.
• Japan‑qualified Bengoshi with approximately 3-6 years' post‑qualification experience (PQE) in real estate or structured finance.
• Demonstrated experience in Japanese real estate transactions, including deep familiarity with TMK and GK‑TK investment structures.
• Solid understanding of regulatory frameworks applicable to real estate investment, including the TMK Law.
• Strong drafting skills (Japanese and English) and experience advising global investors.
• Ability to handle technically complex matters with minimal supervision.
• Team‑oriented mindset with strong communication and stakeholder‑management skills.
• Interest in mentoring junior team members and contributing to a collaborative team culture.
• Equal opportunities statement
• At Clifford Chance, we understand that our true asset is our people. Inclusion is good for our team and their families, our firm and society.
• We have a variety of flourishing employee networks. These networks are a place for colleagues to share experiences and advocate for change wherever they see an opportunity for improvement.
• Our goal is to deliver an equality of opportunity, an equality of aspiration and an equality of experience to everyone who works in our firm.
• Find out more about our inclusive culture here

Benefits

Additional Information

Our Tokyo Capital Markets team is seeking a mid‑level Japan‑qualified Bengoshi to join our highly active Real Estate practice. The successful candidate will play a key role advising global and domestic clients on complex real estate investments, securitisation structures, and regulatory requirements in Japan.

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