Legal Counsel, Global Commercial Legal (Technology & AI)

Life. Unlimited. At Smith+Nephew we design and manufacture technology that takes the limits off living. 

Are you an information technology lawyer who is excited by the opportunities and challenges of AI, digital transformation and emerging technologies? As Legal Counsel, AI & Technology, you will play a key role in supporting Smith+Nephew's enterprise AI transformation programme, partnering with senior stakeholders across Legal, IT, Privacy, Procurement and the business to deliver innovative solutions that enable growth while managing risk and supporting appropriate governance and controls.

What will you be doing? 

As Legal Counsel, AI & Technology, you will become a trusted advisor supporting some of Smith+Nephew’s most important strategic initiatives. Every day will bring a different challenge, from helping shape enterprise AI solutions at the design stage to advising on complex technology agreements and navigating evolving regulatory requirements. 

You will work closely with technical experts, business leaders and fellow legal professionals to ensure innovative ideas can move forward with confidence. Whether supporting global digital transformation programmes, advising on AI governance frameworks or reviewing emerging technology partnerships, you will help balance innovation with appropriate legal and regulatory oversight. 

You will play a key role in enabling the business to make informed decisions by translating complex legal concepts into clear, practical guidance. Your expertise will support technology projects throughout their lifecycle, from initial strategy and vendor selection through implementation, adoption and continuous improvement.

Key responsibilities include: 

• Supporting Smith+Nephew’s enterprise AI transformation programme and strategic technology initiatives. 

• Advising on legal, regulatory and governance considerations relating to AI, IT, emerging technologies, digital transformation and data driven solutions. 

• Drafting, reviewing and negotiating a broad range of technology agreements including SaaS, cloud services, software licensing, IT outsourcing, cybersecurity and related consultancy contracts. 

• Partnering with IT, Procurement, Privacy, Information Security, Compliance and commercial teams across the business. 

• Helping identify, assess and manage legal risks associated with technology and innovation programmes. 

• Supporting AI governance initiatives, policy development and risk management frameworks. 

• Monitoring developments in AI regulation, privacy law and digital health legislation across multiple jurisdictions. 

• Contributing to contracting excellence programmes, legal training initiatives and continuous process improvements within the Legal and Global Operations functions. 

What will you need to be successful? 

Success in this role comes from combining strong legal expertise with commercial pragmatism, intellectual curiosity and a genuine passion for technology. You will thrive by building trusted relationships across the business, helping stakeholders navigate uncertainty and providing balanced advice that enables innovation while protecting the organisation. 

The ideal candidate will be comfortable working in a fast changing environment where new technologies, regulations and business priorities continue to evolve. Rather than simply identifying legal risks, you will focus on finding practical solutions that help teams achieve their objectives responsibly and efficiently. 

To be successful, you will bring: 

• Strong technology and commercial contracting expertise, with significant experience drafting, reviewing and negotiating a broad range of technology agreements. You will understand the legal and commercial risks associated with software licensing, SaaS platforms, cloud services, outsourcing arrangements, cybersecurity services, digital solutions and emerging technology partnerships. 

• Deep knowledge of privacy and regulatory frameworks, including GDPR and other relevant data protection laws. You will be confident advising stakeholders on legal obligations associated with data use, cross border data transfers, new technology implementations and privacy by design principles. Familiarity with HIPAA or similar healthcare related frameworks would be highly beneficial. 

• Excellent judgement and business partnering skills, enabling you to assess complex legal issues, navigate ambiguity and communicate advice in a practical and accessible way. You will be skilled at influencing stakeholders at different levels of the organisation and balancing legal requirements with business objectives. 

• A strong interest in AI, innovation and digital transformation, combined with the ability to quickly learn emerging regulatory requirements and industry trends. Experience supporting AI governance, digital health initiatives, healthcare technology or highly regulated industries would be advantageous, although candidates from other sectors with strong technology law backgrounds are equally encouraged to apply. 

• Exceptional collaboration and relationship building capabilities, allowing you to work effectively with cross functional teams including IT, Procurement, Privacy, Compliance, Information Security and commercial stakeholders. You enjoy becoming a trusted advisor and partnering with colleagues to solve problems collectively. 

• Professional qualifications as a Solicitor qualified in England and Wales, the United States or another common law jurisdiction, together with a minimum of five years post qualification experience. 

You. Unlimited.
We believe in creating the greatest good for society. Our Strongest investments are in our people and patients we serve.
Inclusion and Belonging: Committed to Welcoming, Celebrating and Thriving on Inclusion and Belonging, Learn more about our Employee Inclusion Groups on our website (www.smith-nephew.com)
Your Future: Generous annual bonus and pension Schemes, Save As You Earn share options.
Work/Life Balance: Flexible Vacation and Time Off, Paid Holidays and Paid Volunteering Hours, so we can give back to our communities!
Your Wellbeing: Private Health and Dental plans, Healthcare Cash Plans, Income Protection, Life Assurance and much more.
Flexibility: Hybrid Working Model (For most professional roles).
Training: Hands-On, Team-Customised, Mentorship.
Extra Perks: Discounts on Gyms and fitness clubs, Salary Sacrifice Bicycle and Car Schemes and many other Employee discounts.