Director of Innovation & AI

Devonshire Hayes Recruitment Specialists Ltd.; City Of London; On-site; GBP 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading legal practice in London seeks a Chief Innovation and AI Officer to lead technology adoption and transformation in legal services. This pivotal role requires proven innovation leadership, strong AI expertise, and a deep understanding of the legal industry. The ideal candidate will develop strategies to enhance efficiency and client service through advanced technologies, fostering a culture of innovation across the firm.

Qualifications

• Experience in innovation leadership within law firms or legal tech.
• Strong expertise in AI applications in legal services.
• Understanding of legal industry workflows.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute innovation and AI strategy.
• Identify and implement AI-driven tools.
• Lead cross-functional teams to pilot innovative solutions.
• Monitor legal tech trends and AI advancements.

Skills

Innovation leadership

Artificial intelligence expertise

Strategic thinking

Stakeholder management

Collaboration skills

Education

Degree in Law or related fields

Degree in Computer Science or related fields

Job description

Devonshire Hayes have partnered with a forward-thinking legal practice committed to leveraging technology and innovation to deliver exceptional client service and operational excellence. We are seeking a visionary Chief Innovation and AI Officer to lead their transformation journey through advanced technologies and innovative solutions.

The Chief Innovation and AI Officer will drive the strategic adoption and implementation of cutting-edge technologies, with a focus on artificial intelligence, to revolutionise legal services, enhance efficiency, and create new business opportunities. This role is pivotal in blending legal expertise with technological innovation to position the firm as a leader in the evolving legal landscape.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a comprehensive innovation and AI strategy aligned with the firm’s business goals.
• Identify, evaluate, and implement AI-driven tools and technologies to enhance legal research, contract analysis, case management, and client service.
• Lead cross-functional teams to pilot and scale innovative solutions that improve productivity and reduce costs.
• Foster a culture of innovation by encouraging experimentation, continuous learning, and collaboration across the firm.
• Collaborate closely with partners, IT, and practice groups to integrate technology solutions into daily legal workflows.
• Monitor emerging legal tech trends and AI advancements to keep the firm ahead of the curve.
• Manage relationships with technology vendors, start-ups, and academic institutions.
• Oversee change management initiatives to ensure smooth adoption of new technologies and processes.
• Measure and report on the impact of innovation initiatives on client satisfaction, efficiency, and revenue growth.

Requirements

• Proven experience in innovation leadership, preferably within law firms, legal tech, or professional services.
• Strong expertise in artificial intelligence applications relevant to legal services.
• Deep understanding of the legal industry, including practice areas, workflows, and regulatory environment.
• Track record of successfully leading digital transformation and technology adoption projects.
• Excellent strategic thinking, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to bridge the gap between technical teams and legal professionals.
• Degree in Law, Computer Science, Data Science, or related fields; advanced qualifications a plus.