Principal level AI & Data Counsel

The primary purpose of the Principal level AI & Data Counsel role is to lead how Kainos approaches AI and data law globally. As AI becomes embedded in almost every project, we need a senior specialist who can provide clear direction, reduce complexity, and help the business innovate safely and at pace.

This role is ideal for someone who combines deep expertise with a pragmatic, business friendly mindset, someone who can manage risk without creating unnecessary bureaucracy, and who brings clarity to fastmoving regulatory landscapes.

As a Principal level role, this isn't about 'advice on request'. It requires someone who can set strategic direction, influence how teams work, and embed practical, defensible approaches to AI and data. You will be central to enabling innovation at scale as regulatory requirements and customer expectations accelerate.

You will be responsible for owning, shaping and scaling how Kainos approaches AI and data law globally. You will operate with a high degree of autonomy, trusted to set direction, prioritise work, and determine how AI and data legal support is delivered across the business.

What You Will Lead

1. AI & Data Legal Strategy (Global)

Set and evolve our legal and regulatory approach to AI and data use across all regions. You will turn complex and emerging rules (AI regulation, GDPR, global privacy laws) into practical guidance that our delivery and product teams can use day to day.

2. AI Governance & Risk Management

Act as the senior legal voice in our AI governance processes, especially for higher risk or novel AI use cases. You will act as the primary legal owner for AI governance forums, senior stakeholder engagement and AI-related security and data incidents, with support from other senior counsel. You will help define:

3. Hands On Support to Product, Delivery & Commercial

This role will advise on AI and data aspects of customer contracts, internal projects, customer requests and bids, products, services, and tools we develop or procure.

4. Data Privacy Leadership

Own our global data management approach across jurisdictions including Transfer Risk Assessments, DPO level support, and contractual and practical operationalisation of data protection requirements

5. Policy, Guidance & Business Education

Design and roll out practical, scalable AI and data legal frameworks, collateral, checklists and processes that allow the business to move quickly without repeatedly reinventing solutions. This includes:

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6. Third Party AI Due Diligence

Advise on AI and data risks in third party tools, and help establish consistent, scalable standards for vendor selection, contracting, and ongoing monitoring.

7. Security Incident Legal Leadership

Act as the lead legal contact for security and data incidents, providing senior guidance to ensure swift, calm, and defensible responses across jurisdictions.

8. Ownership and Scaling

This role is accountable for owning and scaling the legal and compliance approach to AI and data across Kainos. While you will not be expected to deliver everything personally, you will act as the principal point of contact, setting standards, defining approaches, and enabling others to support delivery in a consistent and defensible way.

This is a senior professional role with flexibility and trust at its core. Workloads can fluctuate, but you will be trusted to manage your time, set boundaries, and work in a way that delivers outcomes. The role has a global dimension, but the culture is respectful of availability and personal commitments. You will be supported by a strong, collaborative legal team and will not be expected to operate in isolation.

Posted 2 Days Ago Be an Early Applicant Belfast, County Antrim, Northern Ireland, GBR Belfast, County Antrim, Northern Ireland, GBRThe Principal AI & Data Counsel will lead Kainos' global strategy on AI and data law, managing legal risks, governance, and compliance while supporting business operations and product development.The summary above was generated by AI Join Kainos and Shape the Future At Kainos, we're problem solvers, innovators, and collaborators - driven by a shared mission to create real impact. Whether we're transforming digital services for millions, delivering cutting-edge Workday solutions, or pushing the boundaries of technology, we do it together. We believe in a people-first culture , where your ideas are valued, your growth is supported, and your contributions truly make a difference. Here, you'll be part of a diverse, ambitious team that celebrates creativity and collaboration., This is a rare opportunity to define how a growing global technology organisation approaches AI and data law. You will shape frameworks, set standards, and be the go-to authority helping Kainos innovate confidently and responsibly. Embracing our differences At Kainos, we believe in the power of diversity, equity and inclusion. We are committed to building a team that is as diverse as the world we live in, where everyone is valued, respected, and given an equal chance to thrive. We actively seek out talented people from all backgrounds, regardless of age, race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability, or any other characteristic that makes them who they are. We also believe every candidate deserves a level playing field. Our friendly talent acquisition team is here to support you every step of the way, so if you require any accommodations or adjustments, we encourage you to reach out. We understand that everyone's journey is different, and by having a private conversation we can ensure that our recruitment process is tailored to your needs.