Life Unlimited. At Smith+Nepphew, we design and manufacture technology that takes the limits off living.
Senior Counsel, R&D Commercialisation
We are seeking an experienced legal professional to join our Global Commercial Legal team as Senior Counsel supporting R&D Commercialisation. This role acts as a strategic legal partner across R&D, Intellectual Property (IP), and Commercial teams, helping to enable the development, protection, and successful commercialization of innovative products, including digital technologies.
What you will do
* 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 optimization, contract templates, and training initiatives
* Collaborate on global legal projects and support broader team objectives and strategic initiatives
What you need to succeed
* 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 organized with strong prioritization and project management skills
Benefits
* Generous annual bonus and pension schemes
* Share options and car allowance
* Flexible vacation and paid time off
* Private health and dental plans, healthcare cash plans, income protection, life assurance
* Discounts on gyms, fitness clubs, and other employee discounts
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