Working in Italy | A&O Shearman careers

Getting to know us

For over 25 years, we have been one of the leading law firms in Italy. With offices in Milan and Rome, our firm has more than 100 lawyers, many of whom are qualified to practice in multiple jurisdictions, including the UK and the U.S.

Our deep knowledge of the Italian market, combined with the strength of our global network, enables us to provide exceptional legal assistance across various jurisdictions and practice areas.

Shaping success together

We distinguish ourselves through our advisory work on pioneering and market-first transactions. Our clients rely on us for their most complex projects and most sophisticated disputes, both in Italy and international markets.

Our areas of expertise:

Administrative and Public Law.
Antitrust.
Banking and Finance.
Capital Markets.
Corporate and M&A.
Dispute Resolution and Investigations.
Employment and Data Protection.
Financial Services Regulatory.
Intellectual Property.
Private Equity.
Projects, Energy and Infrastructure.
Real Estate.
Restructuring and Insolvency.
Structured Finance and Securitizations.
Tax.
White Collar Defense and Compliance.

Key facts

People

17 partners, more than 100 lawyers, and around 40 business team colleagues.

Offices

Milan and Rome.

Clients

Strength in M&A and finance transactions, high-profile disputes and sophisticated antitrust, employment, regulatory, IP, tax and compliance matters.

Cross-border work

Work with nearly 50 offices globally across 29 countries.

Well-being

15 mental health allies who promote local well-being initiatives.

History

In May 2024, Allen & Overy and Shearman & Sterling became A&O Shearman.

A professional standing outside of the office, looking up.

Build your career here

Be part of a dynamic international environment

From day one, our team members are involved in structured and multi-jurisdictional matters, working in a dynamic environment alongside a team of professionals specializing in the main areas of law.

We place a strong emphasis on learning and provide ongoing training courses through our training and know-how programs, as well as English language courses.

Who we're looking for

Graduates with top marks and excellent knowledge of Italian and English, who demonstrate flexibility, tenacity, results orientation, ability to work in a team, problem-solving aptitude, and skills in planning time and activities.

We are interested in any other additional work experience or certifications obtained, as well as any activities that highlight motivation and interest in the legal and business world.

EXPLORE OUR EARLY CAREERS OFFERING

A&O Shearman Italy: read our stories

Alessandra Pala, Partner

I joined A&O Shearman as a trainee in 2007, driven by a curiosity to challenge myself with complex transactions in an international setting. I found a place that combines global reach with genuine attention to people. This balance has accompanied me at every stage of my journey, through to my appointment as partner.

Ours is a global, integrated platform designed to handle the most sophisticated, multi-jurisdictional transactions to the highest standard. For clients, this means first-rate advice. For us as professionals, it means an environment defined by learning, growth, and new challenges every day. Working with colleagues from different countries and backgrounds teaches you that excellence comes through the exchange of diverse skills and perspectives.

The firm’s culture is built on trust, open dialogue, and shared responsibility. Here, curiosity is encouraged, questions are valued, and learning is a natural part of everyday work.

To those deciding where to begin or continue their career, I would say that here you will find a place that is demanding, yet generous. It asks a great deal, and gives back just as much: real responsibility from the outset, trust in your talent, tools to strengthen it, and the opportunity to see your contribution make a difference, for clients and for the team. This is what made me feel, from the very beginning, that I was in the right place.

Enrico Roveda, Associate

My journey at A&O Shearman began in 2017, through an internship in the Corporate/M&A department. From my very first days, I found an open and dynamic environment where intellectual curiosity, methodological rigor, and teamwork are daily practice. I was immediately given the opportunity to work directly with senior associates and partners, supporting them on complex transactions, multi-jurisdictional projects, and sophisticated clients - circumstances that have driven rapid and steady professional and personal growth.

At the firm, I have found colleagues who invest time in transferring knowledge, sharing best practices, and explaining the key steps behind legal decisions. What I consider a true added value of A&O Shearman is the balance between a dynamic setting and a deeply collaborative culture. In this environment, growth, curiosity, and commitment are not individual goals but a shared endeavor. For me, working at A&O Shearman means being part of a team that strives for excellence with dedication, ambition, and a spirit of service: an experience that enriches both professionally and, above all, on a human level.

Meet our recruiters

We know how important it is to feel supported to succeed as a candidate. We will guide you through your application process with us.

How to apply

Submit your CV, including your degree grade and graduation date, list of exams taken, covering letter, and professional experience by clicking 'Apply' on your chosen job.