Legal Counsel - Construction

Why Zenobē's Legal Counsel – Construction Role Is a Landmark Opportunity

Zenobē, a global leader in battery storage and electric vehicle fleet electrification, is hiring a Legal Counsel – Construction in the London Area, United Kingdom. This is not just another in-house legal job; it's a career-defining move for construction lawyers who want to be at the forefront of the clean energy transition. The company has raised over £2.7 billion since 2017 and operates more than 1.2GW of grid-connected batteries, with a presence in the UK, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and North America. For a legal professional, this means exposure to cutting-edge projects, complex cross-border transactions, and a mission-driven culture that values sustainability and innovation.

This guide breaks down the role, the ideal candidate profile, and why this opportunity deserves your attention. Whether you are a seasoned construction lawyer or a commercial lawyer with a knack for contracts, this article will help you understand how to position your application and what to expect in the hiring process.

The Strategic Role of Construction Law in the Clean Energy Boom

The global push for net-zero emissions has created an unprecedented demand for battery storage systems and electric vehicle infrastructure. Construction projects in this sector are technically complex, involving multiple stakeholders, stringent regulatory requirements, and significant investments. Legal counsel specializing in construction law are the backbone of these projects, ensuring that contracts are watertight, risks are mitigated, and disputes are avoided.

"Our mission is to make clean power accessible. We are passionate about making a positive impact on communities and the environment where we work."

This quote from Zenobē's website captures the company's ethos. For a lawyer, working at such an organization means your work directly contributes to reducing carbon emissions and building a sustainable future. You are not just drafting contracts; you are enabling projects that power homes, businesses, and public transport with renewable energy.

Who Is Zenobē?

Founded in 2017, Zenobē has rapidly become the leading owner and operator of battery storage in the UK. The company supports the National Grid by facilitating the uptake of renewable power and powers approximately 25% of the UK's e-bus market. It also holds the top position for e-bus ownership in Australia and New Zealand. With operations spanning five continents, Zenobē is a global player with a startup's agility and a corporate's stability. The legal team is expanding to keep pace with the company's growth, making this an ideal moment to join.

Key Responsibilities: A Day in the Life of Zenobē's Legal Counsel

The role is diverse and hands-on, requiring a mix of construction law expertise, general commercial acumen, and the ability to manage multiple priorities. From the job description, key responsibilities include:

• Reviewing, drafting, and negotiating standard form construction contracts (NEC, IChemE, JCT, FIDIC) and bespoke agreements.
• Handling O&M contracts, sub-contracts, collateral warranties, and performance security documents.
• Advising on contentious issues such as delays, cost claims, and extensions of time.
• Supporting a wide range of commercial legal matters, including tenders, variations, and operational contracts.
• Assisting with asset finance and project finance documentation.
• Guiding the business on regulatory, compliance, and procurement matters.
• Managing junior team members and collaborating with external counsel.

This is a role for someone who enjoys variety and wants to be involved in the entire lifecycle of energy projects—from initial development to ongoing operations.

What Zenobē Is Looking For: The Ideal Candidate

The requirements are clear: a qualified lawyer with at least 3 years of post-qualification experience, ideally from a reputed law firm. The role demands an in-depth understanding of construction agreements and a non-contentious background. However, Zenobē is quick to emphasize that they encourage people from diverse backgrounds to apply. The job posting states:

"If you like the look of this job and think you could do it well, we encourage you to apply with a CV that highlights your transferable skills and experience."

So, don't let the "ideal" list deter you. Here's a breakdown of the core competencies Zenobē values:

• Legal Expertise: Knowledge of standard form contracts (NEC, IChemE, JCT, FIDIC) is non-negotiable. Experience with energy sector projects is a strong advantage.
• Commercial Acumen: Zenobē is a business, and they need lawyers who understand commercial realities and can provide pragmatic, business-focused advice.
• Collaborative Mindset: You will work with multiple internal teams (engineering, finance, operations) and external stakeholders. Trust-based relationships are key.
• Adaptability: The energy sector evolves rapidly. You should be comfortable with change and eager to learn about new technologies and regulations.

How to Position Your Application: A Career Guide

If you're aiming to land this role, your CV and cover letter must reflect more than just your legal experience. Here are actionable strategies:

1. Highlight Your Construction Contract Experience

Be specific about the types of contracts you've handled. Mention NEC, FIDIC, or JCT by name. Provide examples of complex negotiations you've led. Quantify the value of the deals if possible.

2. Showcase Your Energy Sector Knowledge

Even if you haven't worked in batteries, emphasize any experience with renewable energy, utilities, or large-scale infrastructure projects. Discuss your understanding of the regulatory landscape.

3. Demonstrate Your In-House Readiness

Zenobē prefers candidates with in-house experience, but if you're from a law firm, highlight your ability to act as a true business partner. Give examples of how you've provided commercially focused advice.

4. Emphasize Your Soft Skills

Communication, rapport-building, and empathy are explicitly mentioned. In your application, provide instances where you built strong relationships with clients or colleagues.

Why This Role Is a Career Accelerator

Joining Zenobē at this stage is a strategic career move. As a Legal Counsel, you'll report to the Head of Legal (NI & Construction) and the Global General Counsel, giving you direct visibility with senior leadership. The company offers a generous benefits package, including up to 33% annual bonus, 25 days of holiday (increasing to 30), private medical insurance, a £1,500 annual training budget, EV salary sacrifice scheme, and a pension scheme with up to 8% matching. But the intangible benefits are perhaps even more valuable: exposure to international projects, the opportunity to develop asset finance skills, and the chance to be part of the zero-carbon revolution.

For a lawyer at the mid-senior level, this role can be a springboard to a General Counsel position in the clean energy sector. The company's global footprint means you'll likely interact with colleagues across the UK, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and North America, expanding your professional network and deepening your cross-border experience.

Application Details and Next Steps

The application is being accepted through LinkedIn, and no specific deadline has been announced. Interested candidates should act quickly to secure consideration. Given the competitive nature of in-house roles in the energy sector, it's wise to submit a tailored CV and cover letter that align with the keywords in the job description. Stay updated on Zenobē's LinkedIn page for any changes or additional information.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the salary for this role?

Zenobē has not publicly disclosed the salary range. However, Legal Counsel roles in London typically command a premium, especially in the energy sector. It's best to discuss compensation during the interview process.

Is this role open to solicitors and foreign-qualified lawyers?

The job posting does not explicitly restrict applications to UK-qualified solicitors, but it mentions "qualified Legal Counsel." It's likely that a UK qualification or a jurisdiction with a recognized legal system is required. International candidates with relevant experience are encouraged to apply, but visa sponsorship may be a consideration.

What is the application process like?

Applications are submitted through LinkedIn. The process typically involves a phone screen with HR, followed by interviews with the Head of Legal and General Counsel. There may be a case study or technical assessment to evaluate your construction law knowledge.

Does Zenobē offer flexible working?

Yes. Zenobē explicitly states that they support flexible working, including part-time, flexitime, and hybrid arrangements. They encourage candidates to discuss their needs during the application.