Innovation Manager
London, UK (Hybrid – 2-3 days onsite)
Permanent
What we are looking for:
An Innovation Manager to lead high‑impact process and technology initiatives that enhance efficiency and client value across the firm. In the role, you'll uncover opportunities through data analysis, design and implement innovative solutions, and guide teams through change with strong stakeholder influence and adoption strategies. Bringing deep expertise in legal technology, process improvement and project delivery, you'll act as a trusted advisor across legal and business functions while driving measurable benefits. This role is ideal for a resilient, creative problem‑solver with a track record of delivering multi‑disciplinary innovation in professional services.
What you'll be doing:
Identify, scope and deliver Innovation projects (process and technology) across the firm's legal groups and business functions.
Analyse and interpret data to uncover opportunities and diagnose issues.
Lead process mapping and solution design workshops.
Identify business requirements and develop business cases.
Identify and assess technology suppliers and solutions.
Design and implement solutions to optimise client value and efficiency.
Drive global adoption of new ways of working via communication plans, change management techniques and influencing skills.
Enable and track benefit realisation to the firm.
Act as a trusted advisor to stakeholders regarding the provision of Innovation support on pitches and during matter delivery, including the set up and configuration of solutions for specific matters.
Build strong relationships and collaborate effectively with stakeholders across the legal groups and business functions.
Work alongside the IT and Knowledge teams on cross-functional initiatives.
Skills & qualifications:
Several years' of experience delivering Innovation initiatives (process and technology) in the legal sector or other professional service sectors.
Advanced skills in process improvement, change management and legal technology & AI.
End-to-end project management of complex and multi-disciplinary projects.
High-quality consulting skills around senior stakeholder engagement and influencing, problem solving and solution design and delivery.
Knowledge of the legal technology market and available tools, including AI.
Resilience and creativity in the face of resistance to change.
Educated to degree level or equivalent.
Please note: We conduct thorough pre-employment screening checks as part of our recruitment process.
What we can offer you:
We offer a competitive benefits and wellbeing package for all employees.
Who we are:
Watson Farley & Williams (WFW) is a sector-focused international law firm with extensive expertise and industry insight across its core sectors of energy, infrastructure and transport. Through its network of 19 offices, the firm advises clients on complex, high-value transactions and disputes – matters requiring precise legal execution and a nuanced understanding of global market dynamics.
The firm's success is driven by its people. It fosters a collaborative, inclusive and supportive environment where everyone can grow, share ideas and make an impact. Guided by its values –We are experts, We are united and We care – the firm delivers exceptional service through strong relationships and teamwork. The firm is committed to clear career paths, championing diversity and investing in its people so they can thrive.
Diversity and inclusion are integral to the firm's strategy and underpin its efforts to attract and retain top talent. All employment decisions are made objectively, based on merit and ability and the firm is committed to inclusive and barrier-free recruitment. As a Disability Confident employer, WFW welcomes adjustments for candidates with disabilities or long-term health conditions and participates in the Disability Confident interview scheme. If you would like to apply through this scheme or require adjustments during any stage of the process, please contact