Associate Counsel - Software Licensing & Commercial Contracts (preference Research Triangle Area)

Job Description

We are seeking an experienced attorney to support our growing technology business by providing legal guidance on software licensing, SaaS agreements, commercial transactions, and related corporate matters. This individual will partner closely with the commercial sales team, the software products team, finance, proposals, information security/privacy, and executive leadership to negotiate complex agreements, mitigate risk, and support business growth while ensuring legal and regulatory compliance.

Responsibilities

Commercial Contracting & Software Licensing

• Draft, review, negotiate, and manage a wide range of commercial agreements, including:
• Software License Agreements
• SaaS and Subscription Agreements
• Master Services Agreements (MSAs)
• Statements of Work (SOWs)
• Data Processing Agreements (DPAs)
• Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs)
• Vendor and Procurement Agreements
• Professional Services Agreements
• Partnership and Reseller Agreements
• Advise business stakeholders on contract interpretation, obligations, and risk mitigation strategies.
• Support negotiations with customers, strategic partners, and third-party service providers.

Legal Risk & Compliance

• Identify and assess legal, regulatory, financial, and operational risks associated with commercial transactions.
• Provide guidance regarding intellectual property, software licensing models, open-source software usage, and data privacy requirements.
• Advise on compliance with applicable laws and regulations, including privacy and cybersecurity requirements.
• Develop and maintain contract templates, playbooks, and negotiation guidelines.

Cross-Functional Partnership

• Collaborate with Sales, Product Management, Engineering, Information Security, and Finance teams to facilitate efficient deal execution.
• Provide practical legal advice that balances business objectives with risk management.
• Assist in resolving contractual disputes and escalations.

Corporate Legal Support

• Support internal legal initiatives.
• Support outside counsel relationships when necessary.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school.
• Active membership in at least one U.S. state bar.
• 4+ years of legal experience, including significant experience negotiating technology and software licensing agreements.
• Strong knowledge of:
• SaaS and software licensing models
• Intellectual property law
• Commercial contract negotiation
• Data privacy and information security provisions
• Experience supporting technology, software, SaaS, or software-enabled services organizations.
• Preferred Qualifications:
• Experience in-house at a software, SaaS, cloud, cybersecurity, or technology company.
• Familiarity with GDPR, CCPA, and other privacy regulations.
• Knowledge of AI, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and emerging technology legal issues.
• Experience managing high-volume commercial contract portfolios.
• Key Competencies:
• Exceptional contract drafting and negotiation skills.
• Strong business judgment and risk assessment capabilities.
• Ability to translate complex legal concepts into practical business guidance.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving abilities.

Why Cytel? Cytel is a Global CRO providing ground-breaking biostatistical software and services to large pharma and emerging Biotech clients globally. With our patients at the center of all that we do, we help to accelerate the development of drugs and devices that save lives and improve quality of life. At Cytel, our focus is to provide you with a comprehensive and competitive total reward package. In addition, our world class employee benefits, supportive policies and wellbeing initiatives are tailored to support you and your family at all stages of your career - both now, and into the future. Cytel Inc. is an Equal Employment / Affirmative Action Employer. Applicants are considered for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristics protected by law.

Job Info

• Job Identification 1532
• Job Category Legal
• Locations United States