Legal Counsel, Tech and Data in London

Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer is a world-leading global law firm, where our ambition is to help you achieve your goals. Exceptional client service and the pursuit of excellence are at our core. We invest in and care about our client relationships, which is why so many are longstanding. We enjoy breaking new ground, as we have for over 170 years. As a fully integrated transatlantic and transpacific firm, we are where you need us to be. Our footprint is extensive and committed across the world’s largest markets, key financial centres and major growth hubs.

At our best tackling complexity and navigating change, we work alongside you on demanding litigation, exacting regulatory work and complex public and private market transactions. We are recognised as leading in these areas. We are immersed in the sectors and challenges that impact you. We are recognised as standing apart in energy, infrastructure and resources. And we’re focused on areas of growth that affect every business across the world. All of this is achieved by supporting the growth of our people, who help us deliver on our ambition – which is to help you achieve yours.

The Opportunity

Key responsibilities

• Advising internally on legal issues as they relate to data and technology, including at pace.
• Determining how data is captured and utilised across the firm and managing the complexities of where it should be located and stored.
• Developing and implementing internal policies and processes as they relate to data issues, such as retention and deletion.
• Preparing and delivering clear guidance, tools and training as to use, location, access and security of data; and helping to drive compliance.
• Advising on the laws and professional obligations surrounding the collection, use, maintenance, location and retention of data.
• Advising the practice groups and Business Services teams and Senior Leaders in relation to decisions as required regarding data related issues, identifying challenges and opportunities.
• Working with the firm’s AI Governance team to develop standards, frameworks and processes for the use, management, and retention of data in AI systems.

The role is part of the GC&R team in their broader portfolio. The ideal candidate will maintain strong focus and drive on their own portfolio but will also have transferable skills to support the wider team as required, and the curiosity to develop a wide skill base.

Qualifications, skills and experience

• A technically-astute qualified lawyer with experience or a keen interest in new and emerging technologies, digital transformation, and data.
• Experience of the developing laws, regulations and best practice relating to data, and strong knowledge of data privacy laws.
• An ability to grasp complex, overlapping legal issues, including across jurisdictions, and interpret and communicate solutions and guidance with practicality and simplicity.
• A decisive, pragmatic and commercial approach.
• Minimum 3 years PQE; qualified in a common law jurisdiction.
• We are open to the Candidate's prior experience: it may come from a role where there has been leadership and innovation in this field, private practice, or another professional services firm. In all cases we are looking for a lawyer motivated to manage complex and fast moving issues relating to data and to help drive organisational change to address those issues.
• Excellent interpersonal skills – the person will liaise with both lawyers and business services groups, in each case at many levels of seniority and across HSF Kramer offices.
• This role has a global remit – a desire and ability to work between time zones and cultures with a range of people is essential.

Competencies

• Personal Leadership - Energises those around them, simplifies complexity and makes quality decisions. Brings perspective and a constructive approach to high pressure situations and directs attention to solutions. Makes sound commercial decisions. Acts decisively even on the basis of incomplete information.
• Collaborates with others - Develops innovative solutions by valuing diversity of thought, expertise and experience. Brings a positive energy to the way they work and inspires this in others. Draws on internal networks to bring people with the right skills and expertise together to develop solutions.
• Helps Build High Performing Teams - Creates an environment that encourages personal accountability, and builds the confidence of others by highlighting their strengths and achievements.
• Focuses on Clients - Always acts with the firm’s clients in mind. Develops solutions that balance client needs and the sustainable profitability of the firm.
• Achieves results - Makes things happen in a complex environment.

Team General Counsel and Risk

Working Pattern Full time

Location London

Contract type Permanent Contract

Diversity & Inclusion - We are committed to attracting people from all backgrounds and creating a respectful and inclusive culture where everyone thrives. We see this as essential to our success, including our ability to innovate and achieve sustained high performance. This is a key part of our Values—Human, Bold, and Outstanding.