Senior In‑House Counsel – Customer Contracts, IP Protection & Commercial Law Expertise (German & English)

About brighthush

brighthush is a forward‑thinking technology partner that empowers the automotive aftermarket with cutting‑edge data‑as‑a‑service solutions. Our mission is to connect manufacturers, suppliers, and service providers through a secure, scalable, and highly interoperable platform that delivers real‑time insights and actionable intelligence. With a global footprint and a culture rooted in innovation, collaboration, and integrity, brighthush is redefining how the industry operates in the digital age.

Position Overview

As a Senior In‑House Counsel at brighthush, you will be the legal guardian of our commercial relationships, ensuring that every contract, partnership, and intellectual property strategy aligns with our business objectives and regulatory requirements. You will work closely with cross‑functional teams—including Product, Engineering, Sales, and Compliance—to shape the legal framework that supports our rapid growth and global expansion. This role demands a blend of strategic thinking, meticulous attention to detail, and a passion for navigating complex, technology‑centric legal landscapes.

Key Responsibilities

• Contract Drafting & Negotiation: Lead the end‑to‑end process of drafting, reviewing, and negotiating a wide array of commercial agreements, including customer contracts, licensing agreements, reseller agreements, and joint‑venture contracts. Ensure that all documents reflect brighthush’s risk appetite, commercial goals, and compliance standards.
• IP & Trademark Management: Oversee the protection and enforcement of brighthush’s intellectual property portfolio. Conduct IP audits, file and prosecute patents, trademarks, and copyrights, and coordinate with external counsel on infringement matters.
• Risk Mitigation & Compliance: Identify, assess, and mitigate legal risks across all business units. Develop and implement policies related to data privacy, cybersecurity, competition law, and export controls. Provide timely legal counsel on emerging regulatory developments.
• Strategic Advisory: Partner with senior leadership to shape business strategy, evaluate new market opportunities, and advise on the legal implications of product launches, acquisitions, and partnerships.
• Team Leadership & Mentorship: Mentor junior attorneys and legal assistants, fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional growth. Lead cross‑functional legal workshops and training sessions.
• Stakeholder Collaboration: Serve as the primary legal liaison for external partners, vendors, and regulatory bodies. Build strong relationships with key stakeholders to ensure alignment and timely resolution of legal matters.

Essential Qualifications

• Legal Education: LL.M. or equivalent law degree from a recognized institution. Successful completion of the German State Examination (Staatsexamen) or an equivalent qualification that qualifies you to practice law in Germany.
• Professional Experience: Minimum of 7–10 years of progressive legal experience in an international technology environment, with a proven track record in contract law, IT law, IP law, trademark law, and competition law.
• Language Proficiency: Fluency in both English and German (written and spoken). Ability to draft and negotiate complex agreements in both languages.
• Legal Practice: Demonstrated expertise in drafting, negotiating, and managing high‑value commercial contracts. Experience with SaaS, data‑as‑a‑service, and technology licensing agreements is highly desirable.
• Regulatory Knowledge: Deep understanding of EU data protection regulations (GDPR), competition law, export controls, and industry‑specific compliance requirements.
• Work Authorization: Current work authorization to operate in Germany.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in a fast‑paced, high‑growth startup or scale‑up environment.
• Prior exposure to the automotive aftermarket sector or related industries.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to translate complex legal concepts into actionable business insights.
• Proficiency in legal research tools, contract management systems, and e‑signature platforms.
• Experience leading cross‑border legal projects and managing external counsel relationships.

Core Skills & Competencies

• Strategic Thinking: Ability to anticipate legal risks and align legal strategy with business objectives.
• Negotiation & Influence: Skilled negotiator who can secure favorable terms while maintaining strong stakeholder relationships.
• Attention to Detail: Meticulous approach to drafting, reviewing, and managing legal documents.
• Communication: Clear, concise communicator capable of translating legal jargon into plain language for non‑legal audiences.
• Project Management: Proven track record of managing multiple concurrent legal projects with tight deadlines.
• Adaptability: Comfortable navigating ambiguity and rapidly evolving regulatory landscapes.

Career Growth & Learning Opportunities

At brighthush, we believe that our people are our greatest asset. As a Senior In‑House Counsel, you will have the opportunity to:

• Lead high‑impact legal initiatives that shape the future of the automotive aftermarket.
• Mentor junior attorneys and contribute to the development of a high‑performing legal team.
• Participate in cross‑functional strategy sessions, gaining exposure to product development, sales, and executive leadership.
• Access to continuous learning programs, including legal certifications, industry conferences, and internal knowledge‑sharing workshops.
• Potential pathway to Chief Legal Officer or Head of Legal & Compliance roles as brighthush expands globally.

Work Environment & Culture

brighthush fosters a culture of transparency, innovation, and collaboration. Our remote‑first model empowers you to work from anywhere in Germany while staying connected through weekly virtual huddles, monthly all‑hands meetings, and an internal collaboration platform. We celebrate diversity, encourage open dialogue, and reward creative problem‑solving. Whether you’re drafting a contract or brainstorming a new product feature, you’ll find a supportive environment that values your expertise and promotes work‑life balance.

Compensation, Perks & Benefits

While specific figures vary based on experience, brighthush offers a competitive total compensation package that includes:

• Base salary commensurate with seniority and market benchmarks.
• Performance‑based bonuses tied to company and individual milestones.
• Equity options that allow you to share in brighthush’s long‑term success.
• Comprehensive health insurance, including dental and vision coverage.
• Flexible working hours and a fully remote work arrangement.
• Annual professional development budget for courses, certifications, and conferences.
• Wellness programs, including gym memberships, mental health support, and regular virtual team‑building events.
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and parental leave in line with German statutory requirements.

Why Join brighthush?

At brighthush, you’ll be part of a mission‑driven team that is reshaping an entire industry. Your legal expertise will directly influence product strategy, customer relationships, and the protection of our intellectual assets. You’ll enjoy a dynamic, inclusive culture that rewards initiative, fosters continuous learning, and offers a clear path for career advancement. If you’re ready to take on a pivotal role in a fast‑growing, technology‑centric company, we want to hear from you.

How to Apply

Ready to make an impact? Submit your resume, cover letter, and any relevant work samples through our online portal. We look forward to exploring how your skills and experience can help brighthush continue to innovate and lead the automotive aftermarket into the future.