Legal Counsel HVDC & GPQS UK&IE in Birmingham

Hitachi Energy UK Limited is recruiting for a high calibre qualified legal counsel who will strengthen our legal team by providing legal advice to the HVDC and Grid Power Quality Solutions & Services (GPQSS) business in the UK and Ireland. You will bring your legal know‑how to diverse tasks, and ensure all contractual activities are executed in accordance with the relevant Group directives and instructions, as well as local statutory provisions. Reporting to the Lead Legal Counsel for HVDC & GPQSs in the UK and Ireland, the successful candidate will be working on a wide range of contracts, particularly with regard to high value complex tenders and projects (HVDC interconnector, offshore wind projects, and substations) which will assist customers and contribute to Hitachi Energy’s mission of accelerating the energy transition, advancing a sustainable energy future for all.

How you’ll make an impact:

• Provides expert legal advice over a broad range of issues affecting the HVDC & GPQSS business, especially for tenders and projects under execution within the portfolio of extremely complex power infrastructure projects.
• Identifies issues of concern and adverse contractual risks to the HVDC & GPQSS business at the tendering stage and proactively develops effective legal strategies, mitigation actions and practical solutions in support of business activities, whilst ensuring consistent implementation of contract strategy based on Hitachi Energy’s policies and customer requirements.
• Contributes to the review of RFQs and input to PQQs, tender preparation, risks identification, negotiations of contracts, framework agreements, partnerships, settlements, etc. all in coordination with key internal stakeholders.
• Leads and presents the legal review for risk reviews, engaging with all internal stakeholders.
• Supports contract managers and project teams during project execution in relation to claims to and from customers and subcontractors.
• Promotes dispute avoidance and manages disputes and litigations liaising, where necessary, with external law firms.
• Ensures excellent corporate governance, supports the implementation of the Code of Ethics and Business Conduct and assists with investigation and resolution of integrity‑related issues.
• Manages and liaises with external service providers, including external legal counsel.
• Supports with ad hoc requests from the business for legal advice.

Background:

• Law degree and proven track record as a fully qualified lawyer in England & Wales with a strong legal background and knowledge.
• A minimum of 5+ years of PQE experience relating to grid system or major utilities construction/engineering projects in the U.K. and Europe with a successful track record of handling complex international corporate and commercial transactions.
• Experienced in contract law, contract drafting, administration, and negotiation of agreements.
• Proven experience working within the engineering/construction industry.
• Strong knowledge of FIDIC, NEC3, NEC4, and MF/1, engineering/construction industry contracting practices, applicable Government and commercial regulations and practices.
• Demonstrable negotiating skills and expertise in drafting a wide range of contractual and settlement agreements.
• Ability to work independently.
• Business‑minded and solution oriented.
• Well‑developed communication and interpersonal skills including team spirit as well as the ability to influence at all levels.
• Ability to successfully interface with the Customer when representing Hitachi Energy at significant negotiations, both pre and post contract award.

More about us:

Hitachi Energy is dedicated to fostering an inclusive workplace where every team member can thrive and contribute their unique perspectives and skills. We provide competitive salaries, flexible working hours, professional development opportunities, and a supportive work environment that encourages growth and innovation through career development programs and Employee Resource Groups (ERGs). Specific benefits depend on the location and will be communicated during the interview process.