At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Group's IP strategy and support innovative product development.
- Company: Join James Fisher, a global leader in engineering services with 50 years of experience.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, diverse workplace, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to innovation and responsible governance.
- Why this job: Shape frameworks and policies at the forefront of technology and innovation.
- Qualifications: Qualified lawyer with expertise in IP, technology law, and product development.
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.
About Us:
James Fisher is a global engineering services company with over 50 years of experience delivering complex offshore energy projects in some of the world’s most challenging environments. We operate across Energy, Defence, and Maritime Transport, leveraging cutting-edge technology and deep expertise to support the full lifecycle of our customers’ assets.
Our One James Fisher strategy unites our capabilities under a single vision, building a stronger, more cohesive business within the Blue Economy.
If this sounds like the ideal next step in your career, then click ‘apply’ now!
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.
Head of Legal, Innovation, IP & Digital employer: James Fisher and Sons
At James Fisher and Sons, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a culture of innovation and collaboration. As the Head of Legal for Innovation, IP & Digital, you will have the unique opportunity to shape strategic frameworks while working alongside talented professionals in a dynamic environment. Our commitment to diversity, employee growth, and cutting-edge technology ensures that you will thrive in your role and contribute meaningfully to our mission in the Blue Economy.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Legal, Innovation, IP & Digital
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your experience in IP and digital law. Share specific examples of how you've tackled challenges in these areas, and how you can bring that knowledge to their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings to pop up. Reach out directly to companies you admire, like James Fisher, and express your interest in working with them. A well-crafted email can go a long way in making a memorable impression.
✨Tip Number 4
Utilise our website! We’ve got loads of resources and tips to help you nail that interview. Check out our blog for insights on what employers are looking for, and don’t forget to apply through our site to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Legal, Innovation, IP & Digital
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in intellectual property and technology law. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
Showcase Your Expertise:As a Head of Legal, you’ll need to demonstrate your deep understanding of IP and digital matters. Use specific examples from your past roles to illustrate how you've navigated complex legal landscapes and provided practical advice to teams.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, clarity is key! Avoid jargon and make sure your points are easy to understand. We appreciate straightforward communication, especially when it comes to complex topics like technology and innovation.
Apply Early!:Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application. We receive a lot of interest for this role, and applying early can help ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Head over to our website and get your application in!
How to prepare for a job interview at James Fisher and Sons
✨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 patents, trademarks, and copyright laws, and be ready to discuss how you've applied this knowledge in previous roles. Prepare examples of how you've protected and commercialised IP in innovative projects.
✨Understand the Tech Landscape
This role requires a solid grasp of technology and digital matters. Familiarise yourself with current trends in AI, SaaS, and data governance. Be prepared to explain how you can translate complex legal concepts into practical advice for tech teams, showcasing your ability to bridge the gap between law and innovation.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since this is a senior position, demonstrate your leadership capabilities. Think of instances where you've influenced policy or strategy at a high level. Be ready to discuss how you can build frameworks and training programmes that empower teams across the organisation to navigate IP and digital compliance effectively.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-world situations. Prepare to discuss how you would handle specific challenges related to IP and digital risk management. This will show your strategic thinking and ability to balance commercial ambition with governance and ethics.
