Senior AI & Data Deals Counsel

Cisco Systems, Inc.; Atlanta (GA); On-site; USD 215,000 - 312,000; Full time

Job summary

Cisco Systems, Inc. is seeking a seasoned counsel to manage AI procurement, software/SaaS, and data licensing agreements in a hybrid work environment.

You will drive high-stakes deals, lead cross-functional negotiations, and develop internal playbooks translating complex AI regulatory risks into practical business guidance. The role emphasizes strategic advisory, risk mitigation, and leveraging AI tools to improve efficiency while advising on product roadmaps and GTM strategies.

Qualifications

• JD or equivalent from an accredited law school.
• Admission to at least one U.S. state bar or relevant jurisdiction.
• At least five years of relevant legal experience, preferably in technology transactions, software/SaaS, or AI/data-related matters.
• Exceptional drafting, negotiation, and communication skills. High level of analytical and business judgment.

Responsibilities

• Operational Excellence: You will manage a rapid pipeline of deal inquiries, accelerating business momentum while maintaining high-quality risk mitigation.
• Contracting: Draft and negotiate complex AI procurement, SaaS, and data licensing agreements, and assist business leaders at all levels in navigating and negotiating complex AI deals.
• Oversight: Lead negotiation process and quality control for contract lifecycle assisted by AI tools.
• Thought Leadership: Stay current on benchmarking, contracting trends, and AI/Data regulations that affect our contracting positions and translate these into internal playbooks and guidelines.
• Collaboration: Drive cross-functional initiatives related to contracts and data and AI strategy.
• Strategic Guidance: You will translate complex regulatory and legal risks into practical advice for internal clients to help them understand our contractual terms, and the risks and mitigations associated with deviations.
• Innovation Champion: You will leverage AI-powered analytics and legal tools to automate routine tasks, allowing you to focus on high-value legal strategy and complex negotiations.
• Trusted Advisor: You will build strong relationships across the business, guiding on legal and contractual issues that may arise in executing product roadmaps and Go-to-Market strategies.

Skills

Drafting

Negotiation

Communication

Analytical

Education

Juris Doctorate (JD) or equivalent

Job description

Cisco Systems, Inc. is seeking a seasoned counsel to manage AI procurement, software/SaaS, and data licensing agreements in a hybrid work environment.

You will drive high-stakes deals, lead cross-functional negotiations, and develop internal playbooks translating complex AI regulatory risks into practical business guidance. The role emphasizes strategic advisory, risk mitigation, and leveraging AI tools to improve efficiency while advising on product roadmaps and GTM strategies.