Senior AI & Compliance Counsel — Remote

Zendesk, Inc.; San Francisco (CA); Hybrid; USD 216,000 - 324,000; Full time

Job summary

Zendesk, Inc. is seeking a senior in‑house lawyer to guide AI strategy and regulatory compliance for AI software products. You will partner with product, engineering, and commercial teams to minimize risk while accelerating deals and adoption.

We value a pragmatic, strategic thinker who can translate complex laws into actionable guidance for leadership, regulators, and internal stakeholders. This role supports a fully remote workforce in a fast‑growing tech company.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of legal experience, at least 3+ years in‑house, preferably at a global technology company.
• Licensed to practice law in your jurisdiction.
• Experience advising AI and/or software product development teams.
• Experience and interest in using AI technology to optimize processes and solve problems.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic guidance by balancing legal expertise with creative problem‑solving to deliver risk‑calibrated advice to business leaders.
• Make decisions quickly and efficiently so company goals move forward without being sidetracked by low‑risk issues.
• Shape AI strategy & compliance: navigate complex issues around building and selling AI software, pricing, safety laws, privacy regulations (GDPR, CCPA, HIPAA).
• Empower Sales & Marketing: support AI trust and customer enablement initiatives and collaborate with Commercial Legal to leverage compliance as a tool for accelerating deals.
• Engage with regulators and industry groups: act as a key liaison with AI regulatory authorities and collaborate with industry groups on regulatory engagement strategy.
• Foster internal innovation: champion AI adoption within the legal department and apply technology creatively to improve review processes and risk detection.
• Educate & communicate: translate complex legal requirements for AI development and internal use into clear, actionable insights for leadership and stakeholders.
• Mentor & lead junior colleagues, fostering overall team growth and development.

Skills

Regulatory knowledge

Business pragmatism

Strategic vision

Agility

Ownership

Strong prioritization

Adaptability

Technical literacy

Collaborative spirit

Growth mindset

Job description

Zendesk, Inc. is seeking a senior in‑house lawyer to guide AI strategy and regulatory compliance for AI software products. You will partner with product, engineering, and commercial teams to minimize risk while accelerating deals and adoption.

We value a pragmatic, strategic thinker who can translate complex laws into actionable guidance for leadership, regulators, and internal stakeholders. This role supports a fully remote workforce in a fast‑growing tech company.