Legal Counsel (U.S)

About the role

The Legal Counsel (U.S.) leads all legal matters relating to the company's U.S. business and its government-related operations. Reporting into the Chief Legal Officer in the UK, responsibilities include managing US governance and corporate structure, drafting and negotiating U.S. contracts, ensuring compliance with federal acquisition regulations, and maintaining strong relationships with U.S. Government agencies.

This role will work closely with the Company's Contracts Manager and Sales Operations lead. This position will be initially 3 days a week (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday) with the potential for further hours as the Company's U.S. operation grows.

Role Responsibilities

Commercial Contracts

• Review and advise on U.S. Government Terms & Conditions, including OTAs, GSA, FAR, DFARS, cybersecurity, data privacy and other regulations governing US Government and commercial hardware and services contracts.
• Provide guidance on government contract interpretation, regulatory requirements, and risk mitigation strategies including advice on flow-down requirements.
• Develop and implement U.S. sales contract templates.
• Ensure contract processes and documentation are compliant with all applicable regulations and U.S. Government standards, including any sub-contracting plans required under the GSA.
• Draft and negotiate U.S. supplier terms.

Advisory & Support

• Lead the Company's application for FCL, instructing external advisers as required.
• Develop policies for managing CUI and personnel security clearances.
• Support broader legal function including corporate matters, vendor agreements, and general operational matters, with flexibility to assist across various legal needs as the business requires.
• Lead legal aspects of governance implementation within U.S. operations including state and federal registrations, developing and ensuring compliance with governance documents for US entities, and supporting CLO on intercompany agreements,
• Oversee compliance with U.S. export controls, anti-bribery and corruption measures, data privacy legislation, and the use of artificial intelligence.
• Support Supply Chain to implement a new Export Control Handbook and help train staff on EAR, ITAR and export/import requirements.
• Support development of policies, procedures and standard agreements.
• Work with Product on FCC certifications and licensing.
• Stay informed of regulatory changes and update internal processes, promoting best practice in legal, compliance and risk management.
• Advise the Chief Legal Officer and senior leadership team on any U.S. legal matters, including disputes.
• Monitor legislative changes and advise on risks.
• Support the Contracts Manager on negotiating NDAs.

Location

Preferably Alabama (Huntsville or Muscle Shoals) but the Company will consider applications to work remotely. If remote, there is the likelihood of occasional travel to Alabama.

Requirements & Qualifications

• JD from an accredited law school and licensed to practice in at least one state.
• In-house experience within the defence sector, preferably with a defence prime.
• Proven expertise in government contracts and contract lifecycle management.
• Strong knowledge of federal acquisition regulations, DoD procurement. FCC licensing and export controls.
• Excellent negotiation and drafting skills.
• Ability to build relationships across the business.
• Strong communicator capable of explaining complex issues simply.
• Able to work independently in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong presentation and budgeting skills.
• Familiarity with defence and space technologies beneficial.
• Compliance certifications desirable.