Head of Legal
Job Description
Job title: Head of Legal
Company: Connected Kerb
Job description: Purpose Of Role:Connected Kerb is looking for an experienced lawyer to join a thriving organisation leading the way in transforming the transportation and energy industries as governments, businesses and individuals embrace the necessary steps towards sustainability.As Head of Legal, you will help guide the organisation as it navigates through an exciting and unprecedented period of expansion of electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure, both in the UK and overseas markets. Throughout the journey, you will lead the legal team of two others, and provide direct support on tactical business activities, as well as strategic advice, to set Connected Kerb in the best position for growth in key markets.As well as supporting sales, public bids, operations/procurement, digital and finance for the delivery of EV charge points, the Head of Legal will also advise the Executive team and Board on strategic matters, ensuring the highest standards of legal, regulatory and internal governance and compliance, helping protect Connected Kerb’s interests whilst supporting its commercial objectives.As the organisation operates across both public and private sectors in an area of emerging regulation, you will have the ability to influence and command the confidence of senior stakeholders in both business and government.This is an exciting, demanding and complex role that requires an experienced lawyer who can gain the trust of third parties and stakeholders, as well as developing strong partnerships with members of the Executive team and leading and developing a junior team.Key Responsibilities:
- Advise the Board and Executive on legal, regulatory and commercial risks to enhance decision-making and delivery;
- Lead the legal team, supporting and developing junior team members and driving a culture of professional excellence and agility, as well providing visible and effective leadership of the team through periods of change;
- Advise on a range of laws affecting services and products including commercial, corporate, IP, data protection, real estate/construction, public law and procurement, regulatory and trade law;
- Provide strategic advice and support to the Executive team in matters relating to legal compliance (including the rapidly emerging regulatory landscape in which Connected Kerb operates) and take a proactive role in ensuring that policies and processes in this area are fit for purpose, anticipating future needs as we venture into different markets;
- Provide on the ground support for the business in reviewing contracts and providing legal input on all transaction and contractual negotiations, taking responsibility for protecting Connected Kerb’s interests and ensuring that a proper diligence is undertaken;
- Establish processes and systems that enable improved operational effectiveness and account management including the creation of standards and best practice methodologies to ensure contractual consistency whilst balancing risk/reward;
- Ensure effective processes and systems are in place for the proper execution of legal documents, relevant authorities and approvals, and requirements for the retention and accessibility of legal documentation in line with all relevant laws and contractual obligations;
- Develop a legal strategy that promotes and protects organisational interests and advances Connected Kerb’s legal knowledge management and horizon-scanning capabilities;
- Embed an open and inclusive culture which promotes the Connected Kerb’s values of being collaborative, committed and creative;
- Coordinate the organisation’s response to litigation or any potential legal challenges;
- Oversee and manage any external legal advisers ensuring timely, quality delivery and value for money..
Key competencies/behaviours:Legal Expertise
- Ability to draft clear, concise legal documents that reduce costs, grow the business, and protect the company from risks.
- Ability to advise on a wide range of legal areas and risks including across commercial, corporate, real estate, infrastructure and digital law.
- Experience in third party negotiation to achieve the best result for the business from a risk perspective whilst delivering the key commercial objectives.
Strategic Leadership
- Ability to work collaboratively with senior stakeholders in leading an organisation, initiating change and driving continuous improvement;
- Ability to provide pragmatic risk-based advice, acting as a source for the resolution of unique or complex problems in a manner that commands confidence of senior stakeholders.
Performance and Development
- Sets and communicates expectations, metrics and outcomes for the team that allow the team to prioritise;
- Ability to develop talent and providing clear training for legal team members and the wider team;
- Empowers and inspires team members to take stretch assignments;
- Delegates appropriately – monitors progress and provides support, resources and cover;
- Fosters a positive working environment.
Execution and Results
- Focuses on identifying and championing integrated solutions for clients and stakeholders;
- Involves colleagues with the right expertise to optimise decision making;
- Solutions oriented, proactive in providing pragmatic advice and innovative services delivery.
Innovation
- Thinks strategically to anticipate future trends and changing client needs;
- Engages across the Company to learn from mistakes and find solutions ;
- Systematises and continuously improves processes as we grow, whilst minimising bureaucracy.
RequirementsQualifications, Skills and Experience:
- UK qualified solicitor with a current practicing certificate and at least 10 yrs PQE.
- Prior in house experience beneficial but also suitable for a senior lawyer looking for their first move in house.
- Strong technical legal ability supported with sound general commercial and/or corporate experience.
- Proven capability in leading and developing a team.
- Experience acting as a source of support and advice for others in a cross-functional environment on a variety of knowledge/skills.
- Real estate/construction experience and / or in a similar sector (including infrastructure or technology) would be beneficial but not required.
- Must be eligible to work in the UK.
BenefitsWhat we can offer you
- 28-days of annual leave, plus your birthday and one volunteering day off
- Sustainable pension contributions
- Private healthcare
- Life insurance
- Employee Assistance Scheme
- Continuous professional development to support your career growth
- A passionate team
