Job Description

We are currently recruiting for an associate to join our Digital, Data, IP and Technology group in Abu Dhabi or Dubai.

Department purpose

Our Digital, Data, IP and Technology group advises on a broad range of complex commercial contracts, particularly IP, technology and data rich deals. This includes advising on digital transformation, digital infrastructure, licensing and collaboration matters. Members of the team also advise on all aspects of compliance with data protection and privacy laws and cybersecurity.



The group has a particular focus on major government owned clients in the UAE (specifically Abu Dhabi) and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, but also works with a range of domestic and international clients active in the Middle East region across multiple sectors. Clients of the group include sovereign wealth funds, tech (including AI) focused organisations, sponsors of the leading regional giga projects, communications business, financial institutions amongst many others.



We are consistently ranked as a market leader because of our all-round strength and depth, in particular our ability to deliver high-value, complex transactions and strategic advice. Some of the work we do is international in scope and we frequently work with other parts of the A&O Shearman network.



We are a collegiate and close-knit team, with a good mix of standalone work and cross-disciplinary work with other teams in our UAE, Saudi and our international offices.

Role purpose

Our Digital, Data, IP and Technology group is currently recruiting for an experienced commercial lawyer to join them. We are looking for an individual with experience in commercial contracts/non-contentious IP matters, ideally with some data privacy experience.

Role and responsibilities

Drafting, reviewing and amending documentation Providing strategic advice Managing client expectations and project delivery appropriately Business development - development of personal plan, assistance with and implementation of business development campaign Legal research

Key requirements

2-5 PQE qualified lawyer with a solid knowledge and understanding of commercial contracts and experience of negotiating, drafting, and analysing commercial law contracts, such as service agreements, software licence agreements, supply, manufacturing and distribution agreements, technology licences, franchising, R&D agreements, collaboration agreements Strong technical knowledge across some (but not all) of the following areas:

non-contentious IP transactions and advice

M&A support (including due diligence, IP licensing, transitional services, separation and integration)

communications network transactions and advice

data protection and privacy advice

cybersecurity advice

outsourcing transactions (including in regulated sectors, such as financial services)

(Note: Associates will typically focus on a selection of the above and are not expected to cover all areas of the practice.)Intellectual curiosity and versatility Self -starter with the desire and ability continuously to acquire, develop and share knowledge Detail-focused and self-motivated approach Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple deadlines Excellent client relationship skills Sound experience of operating at associate level within a complex international organisation Strong commercial/business acumen with the ability to deliver creative and pragmatic solutions and advice Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interface at all levels and particularly to win the respect of the partner and fee-earner community, building strong relationships with both internal and external stakeholders Collaborative team player with the ability to develop and work in a fast paced, intellectually rigorous environment A person of sound judgment, able to establish a high level of credibility

A&O Shearman is a new global industry-leading law firm, with nearly 50 offices in 29 countries worldwide. Our fluency in English law, US law, and the laws of the world's most dynamic markets, enables us to provide unmatched insight and seamless delivery to clients. We work on challenging and important deals and disputes that have the potential to shape the future.



We offer exceptional opportunities for our people; opportunities to work for the world's leading businesses; to transform the status quo, and to deliver your best work, helping you and your career to thrive, while delivering unparalleled outcomes for our clients.



Whether you're helping clients solve complex challenges, transforming the ways we manage our business, or ensuring the smooth-running of our operations, this is an environment where you can belong and excel. We provide first-rate training and development, we are committed to diversity, equity and inclusion and we provide support and ways of working that help you optimise your wellbeing.



What truly defines a career with us? We recruit the best and ask for the best of you. And together, we will redefine success.