Senior Legal Counsel – R&D Legal EMEA

About the role

The Senior Legal Counsel, R&D Legal EMEA provides regional legal guidance and strategic support for clinical development activities across Europe, the Middle East and Africa. The role advises business partners on early‑ and late‑stage trials, investigator‑initiated studies, collaborative research and other R&D initiatives.

Key responsibilities

• Provide strategic legal guidance on clinical development matters, including trial agreements and external collaborations.
• Conduct legal risk assessments for proposed activities, identify compliance considerations and recommend mitigation strategies.
• Draft, review and negotiate clinical research agreements and related documentation.
• Develop and deliver legal guidance, training materials and governance tools for consistent R&D support across EMEA.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional stakeholders such as regulatory, IP, litigation, medical affairs and compliance to ensure aligned legal support.

Required profile

• Master of Laws degree with excellent academic results.
• Minimum 7 years of legal experience, at least 5 years supporting R&D, clinical development or life‑science organizations.
• Strong ability to translate complex legal and regulatory requirements into practical business advice.
• Proven experience conducting legal risk assessments and advising on program‑level issues in a regulated environment.
• Excellent judgment, analytical and communication skills, with a client‑oriented, solutions‑focused approach.

Required skills

• In‑depth knowledge of pharmaceutical R&D, clinical research regulations and GCP standards.
• Expertise in drafting and negotiating clinical research agreements.
• Ability to work effectively in multinational, cross‑border teams.