At Daiichi Sankyo, we are united by a single purpose, to improve lives around the world through innovative medicines. With a legacy of innovation since 1899, a presence in more than 30 countries, and more than 19,000 employees, we are advancing breakthrough therapies in oncology, cardiovascular disease, rare diseases, and immune disorders. Guided by our 2030 vision to "be an innovative global healthcare company contributing to the sustainable development of society", we are shaping a healthier, more hopeful future for patients, their families, and society.
The Position:
We are seeking a commercially minded Legal Counsel (m/f/d) to join our dynamic legal team. This is an opportunity to take ownership of a broad range of legal matters while partnering closely with business leaders across functions and geographies. The role combines traditional legal advisory work with active involvement in technology driven transformation initiatives. We are looking for an intellectually curious, business-oriented lawyer who enjoys navigating complex legal issues, embraces innovation, and is motivated to help shape the future of the legal function through Legal Tech and Artificial Intelligence.
Roles and Responsibilities:
• Draft, review, negotiate, and advise on a broad range of commercial agreements, including service, procurement, technology, software, SaaS, and
IT-related contracts.
• Act as a trusted legal business partner to stakeholders across Procurement, IT, Compliance, Security, Finance, and other corporate functions.
• Provide clear, pragmatic, and risk-based legal advice on commercial, operational, regulatory, and governance matters.
• Support strategic technology, digital transformation, and process optimization initiatives.
• Advise on ESG and sustainability-related legal developments and support implementation of applicable requirements.
• Identify, assess, and manage legal risks while enabling business objectives and commercial opportunities.
• Develop and continuously enhance contract templates, negotiation playbooks, policies, and legal guidance materials.
• Coordinate and manage external counsel efficiently where specialized expertise is required.
• Support European affiliate entities on cross-border legal matters, in collaboration with local stakeholders and external advisors as needed.
• Drive operational excellence within the Legal function through process improvement, automation, knowledge management, and the adoption of Legal Tech and AI-enabled solutions.
Personal Skills and Professional Experience:
• Fully qualified lawyer admitted to practice in a European jurisdiction.
• 5-7 years of relevant professional experience gained in a leading law firm, an in-house legal department, or a combination of both.
• Solid experience in commercial contracting, with particular exposure to technology, IT, digital, software, or services-related agreements.
• Understanding of ESG, sustainability, data protection, technology regulation, or compliance-related topics is an advantage.
• Excellent drafting, negotiation, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong stakeholder management capabilities and the ability to communicate complex legal issues in a practical and business-focused manner.
• Commercial mindset with a pragmatic, solution-oriented approach.
• Ability to work independently, prioritize effectively, and manage multiple matters in a fast-paced international environment.
• Genuine interest in digital innovation, Legal Tech, and Artificial Intelligence, including their practical application in modern legal practice.
• Curiosity about emerging technologies and a willingness to challenge established ways of working to improve efficiency and effectiveness.
