At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead legal negotiations and build the legal framework for a fast-growing AI SaaS company.
- Company: Dynamic AI SaaS business with a focus on international growth.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, annual bonus, equity options, and leadership opportunities.
- Other info: Work closely with founders and gain international exposure in a rapidly evolving industry.
- Why this job: Be the first legal hire and shape the future of a thriving tech company.
- Qualifications: US Bar admission and 7-12 years of relevant legal experience required.
The predicted salary is between 150000 - 180000 £ per year.
- Head of Legal
- On-site: 5 days per week
We are looking for a US-qualified senior technology lawyer to join a fast-growing, profitable AI Saa S business as its first permanent senior legal hire.
The company builds LLM-powered research technology used by leading private equity firms, management consultancies and financial institutions globally.
With just under 100 employees and £30m ARR, the business is profitable and expanding internationally, with London and New York as its immediate growth markets.
Working directly with the CEO and founders, you will serve as the sole legal counsel.
Overseeing regulatory and compliance functions, leading major commercial negotiations while building the legal infrastructure required to support continued international growth.
This is initially a hands-on role, with the opportunity to scale a legal team.
Package & Benefits
- Annual bonus: approximately 20–25%
- Equity / stock options
- Opportunity to build and lead the legal function as the business scales
- Longer-term progression towards a senior legal leadership / CLO position
- International exposure across the UK, US and wider global business
- US travel is expected approximately twice per year
The Role
- Leading negotiations on complex enterprise Saa S agreements with major private equity firms, investment banks, consultancies and other institutional customers.
- Negotiating MSAs, data processing and licensing agreements, security schedules and other complex technology contracts, predominantly governed by US law.
- Building the legal processes, contracting playbooks, and frameworks required to support a rapidly scaling commercial organization.
- Owning the company's AI governance and compliance framework, including model training, data-use policies and evolving AI regulation.
- Advising on recording consent and two-party consent requirements across multiple jurisdictions.
- Owning data privacy matters across UK GDPR, GDPR, CCPA/CPRA, DPAs, subprocessors and privacy-by-design.
- Advising Product and Engineering on data ownership, data usage, intellectual property and the development of new AI products.
- Partnering with Security on SOC 2, customer security requirements, DPIAs and information security matters.
About You
- Admitted to the US Bar – this is an absolute must.
- 7 - 12 years' legal experience.
- Strong private practice training combined with meaningful in-house experience.
- Significant experience within an AI, Saa S, technology or data-intensive business.
- Strong experience negotiating complex B2B Saa S and technology agreements.
- Experience negotiating with sophisticated enterprise customers and their legal, procurement and security teams.
- Deep understanding of data privacy, including GDPR, UK GDPR and US privacy requirements.
- Strong knowledge of AI, data ownership, model training, IP and the developing regulatory environment.
- Comfortable operating across US, UK and European legal issues.
- Comfortable working directly with founders and senior commercial stakeholders.
How to apply
For a confidential discussion, please contact Ben Karnezos at ben@heriotbrown. com.
Head of Legal in London employer: Heriot Brown In-House Legal Recruitment
Heriot Brown In-House Legal Recruitment offers a dynamic and supportive work environment for the Head of Legal & Commercial Strategy role, where you will lead a talented legal team in a thriving UK consumer business. With a strong emphasis on professional development, employees benefit from tailored growth opportunities and a collaborative culture that values innovation and strategic thinking. Located in a vibrant area, the company also provides competitive remuneration and a comprehensive benefits package, making it an excellent choice for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
Contact Details:
Heriot Brown In-House Legal Recruitment Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Legal in London
✨Get Involved in Law Societies
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We think you need these skills to ace Head of Legal in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Heriot Brown In-House Legal Recruitment, make sure to demonstrate your understanding of key legal principles and areas of law relevant to the position. Include any specific coursework, modules, or certifications, like LPC or BPTC qualifications, that showcase your legal expertise directly on your CV.
Showcase Your Research Skills:In the legal field, strong research skills are crucial. Use your application to illustrate how you've utilised these skills in past studies or work experiences – whether that's through past internships or significant projects. Mention any legal databases or tools you’re proficient in, as this can give you an edge.
Tailor That Cover Letter!:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make it personal by expressing your genuine interest in Heriot Brown In-House Legal Recruitment and the specific role of Head of Legal. Talk about why you want to be part of their team, how your unique experiences align with their values, and why you’re passionate about the legal sector.
Stay Formal but Friendly:While we all know the legal world can be pretty formal, don’t be afraid to let a bit of personality shine through in your written application. Use a respectful tone, but feel free to inject a little warmth; this approach can help you stand out and show you're a great fit for Heriot Brown In-House Legal Recruitment’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Heriot Brown In-House Legal Recruitment
✨Know Your Legal Principles
Brush up on foundational legal principles relevant to the specific area of law you’re applying for, whether it’s corporate, criminal, or family law. We might get asked situational questions to test your knowledge, so being articulate about key concepts will make you stand out.
✨Be Ready for Case Studies
Full-time legal roles often involve case studies during interviews. Prepare to analyse a hypothetical case and discuss your approach to it. Practising this with a peer or mentor can help us refine our reasoning and articulate a solid legal argument.
✨Show Off Your Research Skills
As legal professionals, strong research skills are a must. Have examples ready of how you've effectively used legal databases or conducted thorough legal research in your past experiences. It's a great way to demonstrate your readiness for the role at Heriot Brown In-House Legal Recruitment.
✨Exude Professionalism and Confidence
In the legal field, professionalism is key. During the interview, we should maintain good eye contact and communicate clearly to show that we’re not just knowledgeable, but also confident. This can make a positive impression on your potential colleagues at Heriot Brown In-House Legal Recruitment.
