Lead Commercial Legal Counsel
WFA Digital Insight
As the demand for skilled legal professionals in the tech industry continues to rise, with a 25% increase in job openings over the past year, Gitlab's Lead Commercial Legal Counsel role stands out. This position requires a unique blend of legal expertise and business acumen, making it an attractive opportunity for those looking to make a significant impact. With the shift towards remote work, companies like Gitlab are prioritizing flexibility and innovation, making this role an exciting prospect for professionals looking to work with a forward-thinking organization. Before applying, candidates should be aware of the importance of staying up-to-date on the latest developments in commercial and technology transactions, as well as the need for strong communication and negotiation skills.
Job Description
About the Role
The Lead Commercial Legal Counsel position at Gitlab is a senior role that plays a critical part in the company's commercial contracting work across the Americas. As a key member of the legal team, you will be responsible for providing practical legal guidance and support to the business, managing risk, and driving complex, high-value deals forward. This is a role that offers significant ownership and autonomy, allowing you to work independently and make a real impact on the company's success. The role entails working closely with cross-functional stakeholders, including Sales and other business teams, to negotiate and finalize commercial agreements. You will be expected to provide expert legal advice and guidance, as well as develop and implement strategies to mitigate risk and optimize business outcomes. As a senior member of the team, you will also have the opportunity to mentor and support junior colleagues, helping to develop their skills and expertise. Gitlab is a company that values innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning. As a remote-first organization, the company prioritizes flexibility, autonomy, and teamwork, making it an exciting and dynamic place to work. With a strong focus on DevSecOps and digital transformation, Gitlab is at the forefront of the tech industry, and this role offers the opportunity to be a part of a company that is shaping the future of software development.What You Will Do
- Negotiate complex commercial and technology agreements, including enterprise software, software as a service, partnership, services, consulting, marketing, licensing, data privacy, and AI-related contracts.
- Own end-to-end legal support for strategic large-enterprise transactions across the Americas, with a focus on AMER Enterprise matters.
- Advise Sales leadership and cross-functional partners on contract structure, negotiation strategy, and risk allocation.
- Assess legal and commercial risk in complex transactions and provide clear recommendations, escalation paths, and practical alternatives.
- Develop and improve templates, playbooks, policies, and supporting documentation that help the team deliver consistent deal execution.
- Monitor legal and regulatory developments relevant to commercial contracting and translate them into usable guidance for the business.
- Mentor contract managers and junior legal colleagues by sharing expertise, supporting training, and helping improve team-wide contracting practices.
- Collaborate with internal stakeholders to develop and implement process improvements and optimize the contracting function.
- Provide expert legal advice and guidance on a range of commercial and technology-related matters.
What We Are Looking For
- A J.D. from an accredited law school and active bar membership in at least one U.S. state.
- Substantial experience in a law firm and/or in-house legal setting focused on commercial and technology transactions.
- Strong knowledge of commercial and technology law, including contract law, intellectual property law, and data privacy law.
- Excellent negotiation and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with cross-functional stakeholders.
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities and projects simultaneously.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to assess risk and develop practical solutions.
- Experience working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, with a strong ability to adapt to changing circumstances.
Nice to Have
- Experience working with AI-related contracts and technology agreements.
- Knowledge of the tech industry and current trends and developments.
- Experience working in a remote-first organization and collaborating with distributed teams.
- Strong technical skills, including proficiency in contract management software and other tools.
Benefits and Perks
- Competitive salary and benefits package.
- Opportunity to work with a dynamic and innovative company that is shaping the future of software development.
- Flexible and autonomous work environment, with the ability to work remotely.
- Professional development opportunities, including training and mentorship.
- Access to cutting-edge technology and tools.
- Collaborative and supportive team environment.
- Recognition and rewards for outstanding performance.
How to Stand Out
- Tip: Make sure to highlight your experience working with complex commercial contracts and technology agreements in your application.
- To stand out, emphasize your ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities and projects simultaneously.
- Be prepared to discuss your experience working with cross-functional stakeholders and your ability to provide expert legal advice and guidance.
- When preparing for the interview, research the company and the role, and be ready to ask informed questions about the position and the company.
- Consider including examples of your experience working with AI-related contracts and technology agreements, as well as your knowledge of the tech industry and current trends and developments.
- When negotiating salary, be sure to highlight your relevant experience and skills, and be prepared to discuss your expectations and requirements.
This is a remote position listed on WFA Digital, the platform for professionals who work from anywhere. Browse more remote jobs across all categories.