Job Description
Main Purpose of Role
We are seeking a highly motivated and commercially minded Construction Contracts Solicitor to join our in-house legal team. This role is pivotal in supporting the company’s rapid growth in the development, construction, and operation of large-scale Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and data centre projects across the UK.
You will play a key role in negotiating and finalising Balance of Plant (BoP) contracts and Battery Supply Agreements, working closely with external contractors, funders, co-developers, and purchasers. The role requires a balance of strong legal expertise, commercial acumen, and the ability to work collaboratively with technical and commercial colleagues in our internal construction team.
Key Tasks & Accountabilities
- Drafting & Negotiation: Lead on the preparation, negotiation, and finalisation of construction contracts, including BoP agreements, EPC arrangements, and Battery Supply Agreements.
- Transaction Support: Liaise with funders’, purchasers’, and co-developers’ solicitors to address contractual requirements and ensure smooth transaction execution.
- Risk Management: Advise on contractual risks, mitigation strategies, and dispute avoidance in relation to construction and supply contracts.
- Cross-functional Collaboration: Work closely with the in-house construction, commercial, and project delivery teams to provide pragmatic, solution-driven legal advice.
- Stakeholder Management: Engage with external contractors and their legal teams to resolve issues efficiently and protect the company’s commercial interests.
- Problem Solving: Act as a trusted advisor in resolving contractual and construction-related challenges, balancing legal protections with project deliverability.
- Governance & Compliance: Ensure that all contractual documentation aligns with company policies, industry standards, and UK regulatory requirements.
Performance Indicators
- Demonstrated ability to apply Company Values
- Contract Delivery: Timely execution of BoP, EPC, and Battery Supply Agreements in line with project schedules.
- Quality of Advice: Internal stakeholder feedback on the clarity, practicality, and commercial value of legal guidance provided.
- Risk Management: Reduction in contractual disputes, claims, or delays arising from negotiated agreements.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Effectiveness in managing relationships with contractors, funders, purchasers, co-developers, and their solicitors.
- Collaboration: Contribution to cross-functional teamwork with the internal construction team, ensuring alignment between legal and project objectives.
- Efficiency: Ability to manage multiple contract negotiations simultaneously without compromising quality or timelines.
- Continuous Improvement: Proactive identification of process improvements and precedents to streamline future contract negotiations.
Role Requirements Skills
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the confidence to liaise directly with senior stakeholders and external solicitors.
- Good organisational and time management skills with ability to prioritise competing demands and priorities.
- A collaborative team player who can balance legal rigour with practical solutions.
- Commercial pragmatism, with the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced and entrepreneurial environment.
Knowledge & Experience
- Background in construction law with strong exposure to energy projects, infrastructure, or large-scale industrial developments.
- Demonstrable experience negotiating BoP, EPC, or major supply agreements in the energy or infrastructure sectors.
- Strong understanding of funding structures and lender/purchaser requirements in project finance transactions.
Academic & Professional Qualifications
- Qualified Solicitor in Scotland and/or England & Wales with 2-6 years PQE (experience outside this range considered for the right candidate).
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