Senior Counsel, Global Commercial (Operations & R&D Commercialisation)

# Senior Counsel, Global Commercial (Operations & R&D Commercialisation) ## Life Unlimited. At Smith+Nephew, we design and manufacture technology that takes the limits off living. We're looking for an experienced commercial lawyer to join our Global Legal team as a **Senior Counsel, Global Commercial (Operations & R&D Commercialisation)**. In this highly visible role, you'll partner with leaders across R&D, Intellectual Property, Procurement, Manufacturing Operations, Business Development, Regulatory Affairs, Quality, Privacy, Information Security, and Commercial teams to support the development, commercialization, and supply of innovative medical technologies. ## ## What will you be doing? As a trusted legal advisor, you will play a critical role in supporting the full product lifecycle, helping bring innovative medical technologies from concept to market while managing legal risk and enabling strategic growth. You will: - Serve as a key legal business partner to R&D, Intellectual Property, Procurement, Manufacturing Operations, and Business Development teams. - Advise on the commercialization of new products, technologies, and global R&D initiatives. - Lead the drafting, review, and negotiation of complex commercial agreements, including: - Development agreements - Licensing agreements - Manufacturing and supply agreements - Distribution agreements - Strategic collaboration agreements - Support initiatives related to product development, launch excellence, compliance-by-design, and supply chain protection. - Provide legal guidance on intellectual property, commercial strategy, and global operations projects. - Contribute to the development of legal processes, contract templates, playbooks, and training programs. - Collaborate with stakeholders across regions and functions to enable business objectives while ensuring effective risk management. ## ## ## What will you need to be successful? - Law degree (LLB or equivalent) from an accredited institution. - Qualified Solicitor in England & Wales or another common law jurisdiction. - Fluent written and spoken English. - Approximately 8+ years of post-qualification legal experience. - Strong experience drafting and negotiating complex commercial agreements. - Excellent analytical, communication, and stakeholder management skills. - Ability to operate independently and provide strategic legal advice to senior leaders. ### ### Preferred Experience - In-house legal experience. - Experience supporting healthcare, life sciences, medical device, pharmaceutical, manufacturing, or technology organizations. - Knowledge of product development, intellectual property commercialization, supply chains, academic or clinical collaborations, and strategic partnerships. - Experience working in complex, global business environments. ## ## What sets you apart? You are a commercially minded legal professional who thrives in a collaborative environment. You bring sound judgment, strong business acumen, and the ability to balance legal risk with business objectives. You enjoy partnering with diverse stakeholders, influencing decision-making, and driving practical solutions that support innovation and growth. ## **You. Unlimited.** We believe in creating the greatest good for society. Our Strongest investments are in our people and patients we serve. **Inclusion and Belonging**: Committed to Welcoming, Celebrating and Thriving on Inclusion and Belonging, Learn more about our Employee Inclusion Groups on our website ([www.smith-nephew.com](www.smith-nephew.com)) **Your Future**: Generous annual bonus and pension Schemes, Save As You Earn share options, and a car allowance. **Work/Life Balance**: Flexible Vacation and Time Off, Paid Holidays and Paid Volunteering Hours, so we can give back to our communities! **Your Wellbeing**: Private Health and Dental plans, Healthcare Cash Plans, Income Protection, Life Assurance and much more. **Flexibility**: Hybrid Working Model (For most professional roles). **Tra…