Legal Counsel

Second Foundation is a global energy trading company with over 400 employees across offices in Prague (HQ, CZ), Zug (CH), Mainz (DE), Berlin (DE), Charlotte (USA), and Tokyo (JP). We specialize in the physical trading of electricity across 21 markets in Europe, North America, and Asia. With a strong focus on sustainable energy markets, our competitive edge lies in combining exceptional talent, innovative technology, and a deep understanding of the evolving energy landscape.

In Japan, Second Foundation operates as an aggregator and developer in the electricity market, with a particular focus on battery energy storage systems (BESS), dispatch optimization, and market trading—further strengthening our global commitment to advancing the future of energy.

As a Legal Counselat Second Foundation Japan, you will play a central role in supporting the legal and regulatory framework of our fast-growing business. You will work across contract negotiations, regulatory compliance, and cross-border investment structures, directly contributing to the expansion of sustainable energy in Japan.

What would you work on?

• Draft, review, and negotiate PPAs (FIT and non-FIT models, including FIP), aggregation agreements (VPP pilots, JEPX), and project acquisition documents (HoTs, SPAs, Development Services Agreements).
• Prepare EPC and O&M contracts for BESS, loan and equity documentation (including TK/GK structures), and cross-border intra-group lending arrangements.
• Manage due diligence for asset acquisitions and equity investments.
• Ensure compliance with METI licensing, JEPX/OCCTO/TSO rules, and government subsidy conditions (grant clawbacks, ownership lock-in).
• Oversee tax matters for foreign-invested entities (JCT, WHT, corporate tax).
• Work with Japanese developers, foreign investors, and communicate with external Japanese counsel, notaries, and tax advisors.
• Support internal trading, development, and finance teams on local and cross-border matters.

What makes you a great candidate?

• Law degree from a Japanese university.
• Native/fluent Japanese with professional-level English.
• 2–5 years’ legal experience in Japan (preferably international law firm or Tier 1 Japanese firm) or supporting Japanese transactions.
• Solid understanding of commercial contracts, infrastructure, and energy projects.
• Knowledge of Japan’s renewable energy sector, particularly grid-side BESS.
• Proven ability to draft and interpret Japanese contracts and engage with local counterparties.

What do we offer?

• 20 days of paid vacation (in addition to national holidays).
• Flexible working hours and home office options.
• Competitive salary with a performance-based bonus structure.
• Latest tech tools: High-end phone and laptop provided to support your productivity.
• Exciting work with a talented team in algorithmic trading.
• Short decision-making paths and rapid development opportunities.
• Training budget to support your professional development and growth.
• Play a direct role in advancing the energy transition and supporting decarbonization.