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Counsel, Downstream Europe and South Africa

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Counsel, Downstream Europe and South Africa
Job Family Group
Legal Group
Job Description
Job Description
Our purpose is to bring together people, energy and markets to power and navigate a changing world. In a time of constant change and possibility we need new talent to pursue commercial opportunities, fuelled by world-class insight and expertise. We’re always striving for more innovative digital solutions, sustainable outcomes and closer collaboration across our company and beyond, and you could be part of that too.
About The Job
This is an exciting opportunity to work at the heart of a complex, evolving energy business.
You’ll be responsible for providing solution-focused legal advice and guidance to existing and growing bp businesses in Downstream, as part of a wider bp Legal team. You’ll join the team of bp’s lawyers based in London in the Downstream, Europe and South Africa team, with a primary focus on supporting UK businesses across areas such as Mobility & Convenience, bp Pulse, Aviation and Biofuels.
You’ll provide commercial, pragmatic legal advice to partners, enabling business growth while managing risk. You’ll work across a mix of day-to-day advisory and strategic project work, including supporting transactions, advising on regulatory developments, and helping shape business decisions. This is a non-managerial role, ideal for someone who enjoys being a trusted individual contributor, taking ownership of varied and meaningful work.
Please note that roles based out of SJS or Sunbury will move to Timber Square, Southwark, from Q4 2027.
What You’ll Be Doing
Acting as a trusted legal advisor to bp’s Downstream UK businesses Drafting, reviewing and negotiating a broad range of commercial agreements Supporting projects such as joint ventures, M&A, and business restructuring Advising on legal and regulatory matters (e.g. competition, sanctions, compliance) Partnering with cross-functional teams to deliver practical, business-focused solutions Managing competing priorities and focusing on high-impact work
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What We’re Looking For
Strong technical legal expertise with a pragmatic, commercial attitude Ability to manage a varied workload, prioritise effectively, and adapt to changing business needs Clear communicator with sound judgment in applying processes and controls Focus on continuous improvement and delivering effective legal solutions High emotional intelligence and strong ethical standards Commitment to safety and proactive risk management Drive to simplify, innovate, and enhance legal support Collaborative approach with a genuine interest in understanding business strategy Qualified lawyer with relevant legal credentials You’ll likely have several years’ post-qualification experience in commercial/corporate law (law firm or in-house)
It Would Be Great If You Also Have
Exposure to M&A, regulatory or compliance matters Experience of working with remote teams Experience of project management of legal aspects of transactions within a multi disciplinary team. Experience of dealing with different levels of an organization.
Why Join Us
At bp, we offer a supportive and inclusive environment where you can grow and develop your career. We provide flexible ways of working, competitive benefits, and opportunities to learn within a global organisation. We are committed to building a diverse workforce and creating a culture where everyone feels valued, respected, and able to thrive.We understand that people have different priorities and responsibilities, which is why we offer a range of benefits and flexible options to help you balance work and life effectively.


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Travel Requirement
Negligible travel should be expected with this role
Relocation Assistance:
This role is not eligible for relocation
Remote Type
This position is a hybrid of office/remote working
Skills
Business Acumen, Coaching, Collaboration, Commercial Acumen, Communication, Conflict Management, Creativity and Innovation, Decision Making, Digital Fluency, Influencing, Managing strategic partnerships, Mentoring, Organizational Knowledge, Resource and budget planning, Stakeholder Engagement, Stakeholder Management, Supplier Relationship Management
Legal Disclaimer
We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, socioeconomic status, neurodiversity/neurocognitive functioning, veteran status or disability status. Individuals with an accessibility need may request an adjustment/accommodation related to bp’s recruiting process (e.g., accessing the job application, completing required assessments, participating in telephone screenings or interviews, etc.). If you would like to request an adjustment/accommodation related to the recruitment process, please contact us.
If you are selected for a position and depending upon your role, your employment may be contingent upon adherence to local policy. This may include pre-placement drug screening, medical review of physical fitness for the role, and background checks.
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