Contract Negotiator

At Believ, formerly known as Liberty Charge, we're committed to sustainable transport being accessible to everyone. We're a Charge Point Operator (CPO) on a mission to create the UK's most reliable electric vehicle charging network that doesn't cost the earth and leaves no one behind. Providing equitable access to electric vehicle charging, and achieving cleaner air for all, is at the heart of the Believ mission. We work closely with local authorities and businesses to deliver reliable, high quality charging networks at pace, at scale and at zero cost. We offer all the advantages of being a scale-up business, but with the added security and long-term backing from well-known parents - Liberty Global (who also own our delivery partner, Virgin Media O2) and Zouk Capital (who manage the Government's Charging Investment Infrastructure Fund). You'll be joining this exciting journey at the start of our scale-up phase, and working with us to hit the ambitious targets our shareholders have set. You'll become part of a passionate and supportive team in a fast-paced, dynamic and result-driven environment., We are looking for a Contract Negotiator to work in our Public Sector team, primarily with Local Authorities across the UK. Reporting to the Public Sector Partnerships Director, the role will be responsible for managing the sell-side contractual negotiations with our B2G clients. Responsibilities include:

• Review tender and direct award specifications and contracts (whether drafted by Believ or based on the buyer's terms) to assess, identify and mitigate commercial and legal risks.
• Analyse and interpret legal documents, offering strategic pragmatic advice and recommendations on key contractual elements (such as termination rights, liabilities, and indemnity clauses) to ensure a balanced risk/reward approach is taken.
• Collaborate with the Business Development Managers to support the negotiation of contract terms, including payment schedules, deliverables, performance metrics, warranties, liabilities, and property agreements (leases/licenses); ensuring these align with tender requirements, company goals and legal guidelines.
• Ensure the negotiation of all terms, including payment schedules, deliverables, performance metrics, warranties, and liabilities, aligns with company goals and legal guidelines.
• Work closely with Legal, Finance, and Commercial functions to ensure alignment on contractual terms and compliance.
• Liaise with external stakeholders at all levels to ensure all agreements comply with relevant procurement frameworks, industry regulations and legal requirements.
• Contribute to contract review and approval processes, ensuring that all aspects align with company objectives and compliance standards.
• Contribute to contract and executive summaries, highlighting key contractual obligations and risks to ensure transparency.
• Maintain comprehensive records of all contract negotiations to ensure transparency and accuracy.
• Develop and maintain a standardised framework for identifying, assessing, and managing contract-related risks, including contributing to the bid library.
• Foster a culture of continuous learning and ensure the team is up to date on new legislation, market trends, and industry standards.
• Suggest improvements to contract templates, processes, and procedures to enhance efficiency and mitigate risks.
• Stay informed on industry trends, relevant legislation and market conditions to proactively advise on potential contract-related opportunities or threats.
• Ensure any modifications to contracts due to disputes are properly documented and aligned with business objectives.
• Provide occasional guidance and support in the negotiation of contract renewals in collaboration with Account Managers., The business is currently based in our office in Southwark. The position is full time, hybrid with 3 days (Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday) based in the office. Believ is an equal opportunity employer. We embrace diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for our people.
We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.


• A degree in law, business, or a related field is preferred but not essential.
• Knowledge of contract law, public contract regulatory requirements, and industry-specific legal considerations.
• A background in commercial law or contract negotiation / management.
• Familiarity with working with Government funding schemes and public procurement would be beneficial.
• Knowledge of the wider EV industry would be beneficial but not essential.
Skills
• Ability to assess complex contract terms and identify potential risks and opportunities.
• Capable of interpreting legal jargon and translating it into business-friendly language to make informed decisions.
• Exceptional attention to detail to ensure accuracy in contract terms, compliance with regulations, and alignment with business objectives.
• Ability to spot inconsistencies, errors, and potential legal or commercial pitfalls in contract documentation.
• Strong persuasion and negotiation skills to achieve favorable outcomes while maintaining positive relationships with clients, partners, and vendors.
• Ability to remain calm under pressure and stay focused on securing the best terms for the organization.
• Experience of reviewing commercial and property contracts and identifying risks across a range of commercial and legal matters.
• Deep understanding of business operations, financial implications of contract terms, and how contracts contribute to business success.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to articulate contract terms, explain complex concepts, and influence stakeholders.
• Thrive in a fast-paced environment where priorities can shift quickly, and a hands-on approach is essential Strong sense of ethics and professional integrity, ensuring that contracts are negotiated fairly and comply with legal and company standards.
• Ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams, especially legal, finance, and business development, to achieve mutually beneficial contract terms.
• Team-oriented with a strong sense of responsibility and ownership in contract negotiations.
• Familiarity with framework and contract templates, terms, and standard clauses used across the EV industry.
• Ability to identify, assess, and manage commercial, legal, and operational risks in contracts.
• Strong organisational and time management skills to handle multiple contracts simultaneously, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to deadlines.
• Ability to prepare and deliver clear and comprehensive reports, executive summaries, and presentations for senior leadership.
  
  Competitive salary and bonus scheme
• 25 days' annual leave, plus the usual 8 UK Bank Holidays and the option to purchase up to 5 additional days per year
• Access to wellbeing and mental health benefits such as the Calm app, personal medical insurance, critical illness cover, dental, optical & travel insurance, income protection and life assurance
• Pension contribution matched up to 10%
• Access to our car benefit scheme and cycle to work scheme
• Access to our online learning platform to continue to develop and grow your career with us.
• 24 hours a year Volunteer Time Off to support causes that are important to you
• Virgin Media / O2 discounts and offers
• Access to VIP Arena Suites at the O2 Arena (London) and First Direct Arena (Leeds)
• Enhanced parental leave policies