Head of Legal – Commercial Counsel (Energy & Data Centres)

About the role

We are seeking a Commercial Legal Counsel to become the first in‑house lawyer for a fast‑growing startup operating in the energy, infrastructure and data‑centre sector. Reporting directly to the executive leadership team, you will build and lead the legal function, providing strategic advice across commercial, corporate and operational matters.

Key responsibilities

• Draft, negotiate and manage commercial contracts, customer and supplier agreements, MSAs, SLAs and NDAs.
• Provide legal support for energy, data‑centre and infrastructure projects, including property transactions and leases.
• Assist with fundraising, corporate governance, shareholder matters and board activities.
• Identify and mitigate legal risk, coordinating with external counsel when required.
• Establish and develop the company’s in‑house legal function.

Required profile

• Qualified solicitor in England & Wales with 6–10 years post‑qualification experience.
• Proven experience as a Commercial Legal Counsel or similar role, preferably with in‑house exposure.
• Strong commercial mindset and ability to work independently with senior stakeholders.
• Experience in energy, renewables, data‑centres, infrastructure, construction or large‑scale real estate is highly advantageous.

Required skills

• Drafting and negotiating commercial contracts.
• Legal risk assessment and management.
• Corporate governance and fundraising support.

What we offer

• Competitive salary £130‑150k plus benefits.
• Hybrid working model based in London.
• Opportunity to shape and lead the legal function in a high‑growth business.