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)

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).

Training: Hands-On, Team-Customised, Mentorship.

Extra Perks: Discounts on Gyms and fitness clubs, Salary Sacrifice Bicycle and Car Schemes and many other Employee discounts.