Senior Counsel, Global R&D Commercial

Senior Counsel, Global Commercial (R&D Commercialisation) – Life Unlimited

At Smith+, we design and manufacture technology that takes the limits off living. We are seeking an experienced legal professional to join our Global Commercial Legal team as Senior Counsel supporting R&D Commercialisation.

Responsibilities

• Partner with R&D, IP, Business Development and Commercial teams to provide strategic legal advice across product development and commercialization activities
• Lead the drafting, review and negotiation of complex agreements, including development, licensing, distribution, supply and collaboration agreements
• Support global product development and launch initiatives, including new product committees and commercialization strategies
• Identify, assess and mitigate legal risks while enabling business opportunities across global markets
• Contribute to compliance‑by‑design initiatives to ensure alignment with regulatory, trade and customer requirements
• Review promotional materials and digital content related to new product launches
• Support legal operations through process optimisation, contract templates and training initiatives
• Collaborate on global legal projects and support broader team objectives and strategic initiatives

Qualifications

• Law degree (LLB or equivalent) from a reputable institution
• Qualified solicitor in England & Wales or another commonwealth jurisdiction
• Approximately 7+ years post‑qualification experience
• Experience in commercial contracting and advising on complex agreements
• Experience in healthcare, medical devices, pharmaceutical or life sciences sectors is advantageous
• In‑house experience is beneficial but not required
• Strong commercial acumen with the ability to translate legal advice into business impact
• Expertise or interest in IP‑driven transactions, R&D collaboration or commercialization of scientific innovation
• Excellent drafting, negotiation and communication skills
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively across global teams
• Strong stakeholder management skills with experience engaging senior leaders
• Highly organised with strong prioritisation and project management skills