Lead Counsel Sustainability / ESG - Motion
At ABB, we help industries decentralise, operate more efficiently, and reduce their environmental impact. As a global leader in motors, drives and solutions, ABB offers a platform for truly sustainable transformation. This role is a chance to partner with business, legal and sustainability functions in shaping how the company delivers net‑zero solutions.
This position reports to the Head of Integrity, Regulatory Affairs & Data Privacy for the Motion Business Area and is part of a high‑performing team.
The role is open globally with preferred locations in Warrington, UK and Sesto San Giovanni, Italy. The work model is hybrid.
Key Responsibilities
* Shape and support the sustainability and ESG legal strategy for the Motion Business Area and its divisions, based upon multiple inputs, including the minimum requirements set by the Group.
* Design and maintain a governance framework within the Motion Business Area to interpret and implement Sustainability and ESG regulatory requirements, defining clear processes and cross‑functional responsibilities across L&I, Sustainability, GRPA, Finance, SCM, HR etc.
* Execute leadership in monitoring and reporting changes in law, regulation, guidance, legal risk, market developments and trends relating to Sustainability/ESG relevant to ABB Motion.
* Provide expert day‑to‑day legal advice and guidance on Sustainability regulations and compliance across the Business Area.
* Drive continuous improvement and ensure the relevant Sustainability regulatory requirements are translated into applicable processes and contracts.
* Lead the development of contract standards, templates and guidelines in collaboration with the Division General Counsels, Corporate Centre of Expertise and other legal teams.
* Ensure all contract templates comply with legal standards and internal policies and procedures.
* Review, draft and support negotiation of contracts in partnership with divisions and legal counsels.
* Design training materials and curricula related to Sustainability regulations; support divisions in delivering training and guidance to the business.
* Deliver timely legal support in critical situations, including geopolitical events with potential business impact.
* Monitor regulatory trends and act as a recognised expert on sustainability law and compliance.
* Promote best practice sharing, collaborate cross‑Business Area and ensure harmonised processes across the Motion Business Area.
* Support investigations of potential ESG breaches or incidents, including ABB’s Supplier Code of Conduct, and advise on any responses.
Qualifications
* Master’s degree in law with substantial experience and interest in sustainability related topics.
* Minimum 10 years of professional experience, ideally in a global, cross‑functional environment – either in‑house or at a reputable law firm.
* Exceptional negotiation and stakeholder management skills, grounded in collaboration, transparency, and legal knowledge.
* Strong advocacy and communication skills – both written and verbal – with the ability to navigate complex, high‑pressure situations and balance competing interests.
* Proven ability to draft and negotiate contracts at a global level.
* Fluent in English, with excellent presentation and networking capabilities.
* Self‑driven and able to work independently.
* Demonstrates the highest standards of integrity, professionalism and commitment to quality.
Seniority level: Mid‑Senior level. Employment type: Full‑time. Job function: Legal.
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