Sr Data Protection & AI Governance Lawyer - Exeter - 5+ PQE

Chadwick Nott; Exeter; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK law firm is seeking a Senior Data Protection & AI Governance Lawyer to join its Business Support team in Exeter. This role focuses on managing data protection matters and shaping AI governance strategies. The ideal candidate will have over 5 years' PQE in data protection law and a keen interest in the intersection of privacy and emerging AI regulations. The firm offers a competitive salary and a people-first culture emphasizing diversity and inclusion.

Benefits

Annual bonus scheme

GPP Pension Scheme

Private Medical Insurance

Discounted gym memberships

Health assessments

Wellbeing support

Qualifications

• 5+ years' PQE as a Solicitor in England & Wales or equivalent.
• Strong experience in data protection law and privacy compliance.
• Experience in AI governance and emerging tech regulation is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Manage data protection and privacy matters across jurisdictions.
• Advise on UK GDPR, PECR, and global privacy regulations.
• Draft and negotiate data processing agreements and privacy clauses.

Skills

Data protection law

Privacy compliance

AI governance

Legal drafting

Analytical skills

Education

Qualified Solicitor (England & Wales or equivalent)

Job description

Senior Data Protection & AI Governance Lawyer - Business Support (General Counsel & Risk) - Exeter - 5+ years PQE
Location: Exeter
Job Type: Full-time
Contract Type: Permanent
Salary: £70,000 to £95,000

A leading UK law firm with a strong international presence is seeking a Senior Data Protection & AI Governance Lawyer to join its Business Support team within General Counsel & Risk. This is a strategic, non-fee earning role ideal for a qualified solicitor with deep expertise in data protection and a keen interest in emerging AI regulation. The firm is known for its commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, and its ESG-led approach to sustainable growth.

The Role

• This is a high-impact position offering the opportunity to shape the firm\'s privacy and AI governance strategy across UK and international offices. You\'ll work closely with senior stakeholders and collaborate across departments to ensure ethical and compliant use of data and technology.

Key responsibilities include:

• Managing data protection and privacy matters across jurisdictions
• Advising on UK GDPR, PECR, and global privacy regulations
• Drafting and negotiating data processing agreements and privacy clauses
• Developing and maintaining internal data protection policies and training programmes
• Overseeing the firm\'s AI governance framework and ethical AI use
• Collaborating with cross-functional teams to embed privacy compliance
• Monitoring emerging AI legislation and assessing operational impact

About You

We\'re looking for a qualified legal professional with:

• 5+ years\' PQE as a Solicitor (England & Wales or equivalent)
• Strong experience in data protection law and privacy compliance
• Experience in AI governance and emerging tech regulation (highly desirable)
• Excellent legal drafting, negotiation, and analytical skills
• Confidence in advising senior stakeholders and working independently
• A proactive, collaborative mindset and enthusiasm for innovation

Benefits

In addition to a competitive salary, the firm offers:

• Annual bonus scheme
• GPP Pension Scheme with Aviva
• Private Medical Insurance (Vitality Health)
• Discounted gym memberships, free cinema tickets, health assessments
• Wellbeing support and paid leave for good causes

Culture & Values

• This firm is known for its people-first culture, commitment to ESG principles, and inclusive working environment. With offices across the UK, Middle East, and Asia, it combines top-tier legal expertise with a modern, responsible approach to practice.

How to apply

If you are interested in this opportunity or would like a confidential conversation about your next career move, please contact:

• Email: [e-mail]
• Phone: [phone]
• LinkedIn: Olivia Reed | Chadwick Nott

Chadwick Nott is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion across the legal profession. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of background. Where a level of experience is indicated, this is intended as a guideline only.

*At Chadwick Nott, we are committed to developing a diverse and inclusive culture as well as supporting our large client network achieve the same. We are an equal opportunities employer and encourage applications of all qualified candidates regardless of their age, sex, race, disability, sexual orientation, disability, culture or anything other personal characteristic. We champion and celebrate diversity in the workplace. Where a level of experience is indicated, please note that this is only a guideline.*