At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Group's IP strategy and support innovative product development.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking company at the forefront of technology and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, diverse workplace, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Diversity is valued; we encourage applications from all backgrounds.
- Why this job: Shape the future of innovation while ensuring responsible governance and ethics.
- Qualifications: Qualified lawyer with expertise in IP, technology law, and product development.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 120000 € per year.
We are seeking an exceptional Head of Legal - Innovation, Intellectual Property & Digital to act as the Group's subject‐matter expert at the intersection of technology, innovation, IP and digital risk. Reporting directly to the Group General Counsel, you will work closely with divisional leadership, engineers, product teams, digital and data specialists to ensure innovation is protected, commercialised and deployed responsibly across global markets. This is a senior, influential role with real scope to shape frameworks, policy and strategy – not just advise on transactions.
What You'll Be Doing
- Own and lead the Group IP strategy, ensuring new intellectual property is identified, protected and leveraged effectively.
- Support product development, R&D and joint innovation programmes, advising on ownership, licensing and collaboration models.
- Act as the Group expert on technology, software, digital, data and AI matters, including SaaS, platform agreements and emerging regulatory issues.
- Enable responsible innovation, balancing commercial ambition with governance, ethics and risk management.
- Build Group-wide capability through frameworks, policies and training on IP, digital compliance and AI governance.
- Influence at senior levels while partnering closely with Divisional General Counsels to ensure consistent, pragmatic application.
What We're Looking For
You will be a qualified lawyer with deep experience in intellectual property, technology law and new product development, most likely gained in‐house or in a sophisticated commercial environment. You will be comfortable operating across unfamiliar technical domains and translating legal complexity into clear, practical advice for engineers, digital teams and senior leaders. You will have strong IP capability across patents, trademarks, copyright and trade secrets.
In addition, we are looking for demonstrable experience advising on technology, digital or data‐driven products and services, confidence in shaping governance and policy, not just providing reactive advice when engaging with innovation, digitalisation and AI. You will operate as a Group‐level expert in a complex, international organisation. Experience with AI regulation, data governance or industrial/engineering‐led sectors would be advantageous, but mindset and leadership capability are paramount.
At James Fisher and Sons, we are committed to taking positive action on diversity and strongly encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds. We are proud to be a Disability Confident employer and recognise that our success is driven by the talent and diversity of our workforce. To support an accessible and inclusive recruitment experience in the UK, we partner with Vercida. You can learn more about our approach by visiting our company page.
Head of Legal, Innovation, IP & Digital in Barrow in Furness employer: James Fisher and Sons plc
At James Fisher and Sons, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a culture of innovation and inclusivity. As the Head of Legal for Innovation, IP & Digital, you will have the opportunity to shape critical frameworks and policies while working alongside talented professionals in a dynamic environment. Our commitment to employee growth, diversity, and responsible innovation ensures that you will not only thrive in your role but also contribute meaningfully to our global mission.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Legal, Innovation, IP & Digital in Barrow in Furness
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to connections in the legal and tech fields, attend industry events, and engage on platforms like LinkedIn. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that dream role.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Create a portfolio or blog where you discuss trends in IP, digital law, and innovation. This not only highlights your knowledge but also positions you as a thought leader in the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by understanding the company’s current projects and challenges. Tailor your responses to demonstrate how your skills can directly address their needs, especially in areas like AI governance and digital compliance.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Legal, Innovation, IP & Digital in Barrow in Furness
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Legal role. Highlight your experience in IP, technology law, and any relevant projects that showcase your ability to navigate complex legal landscapes. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of how you've influenced policy or strategy in previous positions, and don’t forget to mention your passion for innovation and digital transformation.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:As a senior role, we’re looking for someone who can lead and influence. In your application, highlight instances where you’ve successfully led teams or projects, especially in areas related to IP and technology. We want to know how you can shape frameworks and policies!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, you’ll find all the details about the role and our company culture there, which can help you tailor your application even further!
How to prepare for a job interview at James Fisher and Sons plc
✨Know Your IP Inside Out
As a candidate for the Head of Legal role, you need to be well-versed in intellectual property law. Brush up on the latest trends and regulations in IP, especially as they relate to technology and digital innovation. Be prepared to discuss how you've successfully navigated complex IP issues in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
This position requires a strategic mindset. Think about how you can influence policy and governance within the organisation. Prepare examples of how you've shaped frameworks or strategies in past roles, particularly in relation to innovation and digital compliance.
✨Communicate Clearly with Non-Legal Teams
You'll be working closely with engineers and product teams, so it's crucial to demonstrate your ability to translate legal jargon into practical advice. Practice explaining complex legal concepts in simple terms, and be ready to share examples of how you've done this effectively in the past.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to face scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-world situations. Think through potential challenges related to IP and digital risk that the company might face, and prepare your responses on how you would address them while balancing commercial ambition with governance.
