At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Group's IP strategy and support innovative product development.
- Company: Dynamic organisation at the forefront of technology and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to equality and positive change.
- Why this job: Shape the future of innovation while ensuring responsible digital practices.
- Qualifications: Qualified lawyer with expertise in IP and technology law.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 € 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.
Our Commitment to Equality and Diversity
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.
Head of Legal, Innovation, IP & Digital in London employer: James Fisher and Sons plc
As a leading innovator in the technology sector, we offer an exceptional work environment for our Head of Legal – Innovation, IP & Digital. Our commitment to employee growth is reflected in our collaborative culture, where you will have the opportunity to shape impactful policies and strategies while working alongside talented professionals in a dynamic UK-based setting. With a strong focus on diversity and inclusion, we ensure that every voice is heard, making us not just an employer, but a community dedicated to responsible innovation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Legal, Innovation, IP & Digital in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to connections in the legal and tech sectors, attend industry events, and engage on platforms like LinkedIn. We can’t stress enough how personal connections can open doors that applications alone can’t.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Prepare a portfolio or case studies that highlight your experience in IP, technology law, and digital innovation. When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, let them see your skills in action.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! If you see a company you’re keen on, don’t wait for job postings. Reach out directly through our website, express your interest, and share how you can add value to their team. It shows initiative and enthusiasm!
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for interviews by understanding the company’s current projects and challenges in IP and digital risk. We recommend tailoring your responses to demonstrate how your background aligns with their needs. Be ready to discuss real-world applications of your expertise!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Legal, Innovation, IP & Digital in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that align with the Head of Legal role. Highlight your expertise in IP, technology law, and any relevant experience in innovation and digital sectors.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to tell us why you're the perfect fit for this position. Share your passion for technology and innovation, and how your background can help shape our legal frameworks and policies.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:Since this is a senior role, emphasise your leadership capabilities. Provide examples of how you've influenced decision-making at high levels and collaborated with diverse teams to drive successful outcomes.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. This ensures your application gets to the right people and allows us to review your details efficiently. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at James Fisher and Sons plc
✨Know Your IP Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your intellectual property knowledge, especially in relation to technology and digital innovation. Be prepared to discuss how you would protect and leverage new IP effectively, as this will be a key part of the role.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
This position is all about shaping frameworks and policies, so come ready with examples of how you've influenced strategy in previous roles. Think about times when you've balanced commercial ambition with governance and risk management.
✨Be Ready to Translate Complexity
You’ll need to communicate legal complexities to non-legal teams, so practice explaining intricate legal concepts in simple terms. Prepare scenarios where you’ve successfully done this in the past, particularly with engineers or product teams.
✨Demonstrate Leadership and Collaboration
As a senior role, they’ll want to see your leadership skills in action. Think of examples where you’ve partnered with senior leaders or cross-functional teams to drive innovation and compliance. Highlight your ability to influence and build capability across the organisation.
