Head of Legal

Introduction

Spring Free EV, an EV specific leasing company. The company was initially funded by three Silicon Valley billionaires (and an institutional climate investor with a vision for Gigaton-scale climate solution with software and innovative structured finance. 

The EV ecosystem will operate on entirely different principles than the fossil fuel auto economy and requires new strategies for success. Treating EVs as a distinct asset class, especially in high-mileage scenarios like the gig economy and rideshare sectors, unlocks new economics and higher returns. SFEV is uniquely positioned to unlock the economic value for every electric vehicle.

Industry background

The speed of adoption of Electric Vehicles (EVs) is critical to achieve deep decarbonization of the transport sector. The average gasoline vehicle on the road today has a fuel economy of about 22.0 miles per gallon and drives around 11,500 miles per year. Every gallon of gasoline burned creates about 8,887 grams of CO2. Added-up passenger vehicles emit 10% - 15% of total greenhouse gas emissions.

The auto finance industry has a massive entrenched ecosystem of loans and leases. Worldwide auto revenues were around $3 Trillion in 2017. EVs are now at a tipping point where the capital cost and total cost of ownership can be lower than gas or diesel powered vehicles.

Position Overview

We seek a dynamic Head of Legal who is passionate about structuring "Deals that do good and do well." The ideal candidate will provide expert legal guidance across innovative financial transactions, tax equity investments, and initiatives in the energy transition space. This role will be instrumental in shaping our business strategy, ensuring compliance, and driving impactful deals that further the adoption of electric vehicles.

Experience:

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school and active bar membership.
• Minimum of 10+ years of experience in complex financial transactions, preferably with direct exposure to tax equity, renewable energy, or asset-based finance.
• Proven expertise in structuring and negotiating tax equity transactions or financing arrangements in support of renewable energy or infrastructure projects.
• Strong background in asset-backed financing or securitization, particularly within the automotive or renewable energy sector, is highly desirable.
• Demonstrated ability to advise on compliance, regulatory, and contractual matters related to energy transition and EV-specific finance models.
• Exceptional leadership and communication skills, with experience building relationships across cross-functional teams and external stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all legal aspects of Spring Free EV’s financing initiatives, focusing on structuring and supporting an innovative EV-specific asset class.
• Structure, negotiate, and close tax equity and asset-backed financing transactions, ensuring regulatory compliance and risk management.
• Develop and implement legal strategies for new financial products, including EV leasing and usage-based financing, aligned with green energy incentives.
• Advise cross-functional teams on legal strategy, compliance, and risk management to support business growth in the EV finance sector.
• Oversee external counsel relationships, ensuring efficient, high-quality legal support for complex transactions and strategic projects.