Director, Corporate Counsel - AI Compliance - $40B+ Industry Leader

About the Role

The role entails working closely with cross-functional teams, including legal, compliance, digital, and business leaders, to develop and implement AI compliance programs that meet the company's global regulatory requirements. The Director, Corporate Counsel - AI Compliance will be responsible for setting program priorities, improving efficiency and scalability, and anticipating emerging issues before they become business or compliance challenges. This role will also manage two direct reports, providing coaching, guidance, and development opportunities to help them achieve their career goals.

Thermo Fisher Scientific is a world leader in the life sciences and technology industry, with a strong commitment to innovation, customer satisfaction, and social responsibility. The company's mission is to enable its customers to make the world healthier, cleaner, and safer, and the Director, Corporate Counsel - AI Compliance will play a key role in supporting this mission.

What You Will Do

• Lead the development and implementation of Thermo Fisher's enterprise AI compliance program, including the creation of policies, procedures, and training materials.
• Provide strategic legal and compliance leadership on the development, procurement, deployment, commercialization, and use of AI-enabled products, services, and processes across Thermo Fisher's global businesses and corporate functions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including legal, compliance, digital, and business leaders, to develop and implement AI compliance programs that meet the company's global regulatory requirements.
• Manage two direct reports, providing coaching, guidance, and development opportunities to help them achieve their career goals.
• Develop and maintain practical playbooks, contract templates, fallback positions, guidance, and training materials that operationalize AI requirements and promote consistent decision-making.
• Partner with senior leaders and experienced legal, privacy, compliance, and technology professionals on matters central to innovation and growth.
• Lead, coach, and develop a high-performing team, improving program efficiency, legal service delivery, and intake workflows to support a growing volume and complexity of AI matters.
• Build and scale a high-impact program that influences how AI is governed across global businesses and corporate functions.
• Expand leadership experience through visibility to senior stakeholders, team leadership, and meaningful opportunities to improve how legal and compliance services are delivered.
• Develop and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including business leaders, legal professionals, and technology experts.

What We Are Looking For

• 10+ years of experience in legal, compliance, privacy, technology law, or AI governance, with experience advising on AI, digital innovation, or related data governance matters.
• Strong practical understanding of global AI and data protection frameworks, including the EU AI Act, NIST AI Risk Management Framework, and related requirements affecting the development and use of AI.
• Demonstrated experience building, leading, or scaling enterprise compliance, governance, or counseling programs in a complex global organization, including developing practical templates, guidance, and processes.
• Proven ability to work independently, manage ambiguity, anticipate issues, and influence senior stakeholders through sound judgment, clear communication, and business-oriented advice.
• Experience leading people and working across functions, businesses, and time zones in a highly matrixed environment; direct people leadership experience preferred.
• Advanced English proficiency; additional languages and experience in life sciences, healthcare, or technology sectors are a plus.
• Strong communication, collaboration, and project management skills, with the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to analyze complex problems, identify key issues, and develop creative solutions.
• Strong business acumen, with a deep understanding of the life sciences and technology industry.

Nice to Have

• Experience working in a highly regulated industry, such as healthcare or finance.
• Knowledge of emerging technologies, including blockchain, cloud computing, or the Internet of Things.
• Certification in a relevant field, such as compliance, privacy, or technology law.
• Experience working with cross-functional teams, including legal, compliance, digital, and business leaders.
• Strong networking skills, with the ability to build relationships with key stakeholders.

Benefits and Perks

• Competitive salary and bonus package.
• Comprehensive health insurance, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• 401(k) retirement plan, with company match.
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Flexible working hours, with the ability to work from home or remotely.
• Opportunity to work with a leading company in the life sciences and technology industry.
• Professional development opportunities, including training, mentorship, and career advancement.
• Access to cutting-edge technology and tools, including AI and data analytics platforms.
• Collaborative and dynamic work environment, with a team of experienced professionals.

• Make sure to highlight your experience in AI compliance, including any relevant certifications or training.
• Showcase your ability to work independently and manage ambiguity, with examples from your previous experience.
• Demonstrate your understanding of global AI and data protection frameworks, including the EU AI Act and NIST AI Risk Management Framework.
• Emphasize your leadership skills, including your ability to lead cross-functional teams and influence senior stakeholders.
• Be prepared to discuss your experience working in a highly matrixed environment, including your ability to work across functions, businesses, and time zones.
• Highlight your strong communication, collaboration, and project management skills, with examples from your previous experience.
• Show your passion for the life sciences and technology industry, and your commitment to making a positive impact.