Job Description
This company is hiring a Legal AI Director to lead responsible AI implementation across its legal services. Reporting to the CIO, this hybrid role in Canada is pivotal in integrating emerging technologies to enhance legal decision-making, risk management, compliance, and operational efficiency. The successful candidate will champion innovation, drive strategic initiatives, and foster a culture of continuous improvement and ethical AI use.
This is a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of legal technology in a collaborative and inclusive environment that values innovation and impact.
Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
- Define and lead the firm’s AI and innovation strategy aligned with broader organizational goals.
- Advise leadership on legal, ethical, and regulatory implications of AI technologies.
- Promote AI literacy and a culture of innovation across teams and departments.
- Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, including clients and global innovation leads.
AI Implementation & Oversight
- Oversee selection and deployment of AI tools for legal workflows (e.g., contract review, compliance).
- Ensure seamless integration of legal tech with IT and legal systems.
- Partner with vendors and internal teams to enhance legal service delivery through automation and workflows.
- Monitor emerging technologies and identify opportunities for implementation.
Risk Management & Compliance
- Ensure compliance with legal, ethical, and data governance standards in AI initiatives.
- Oversee AI governance including transparency, bias mitigation, and auditability.
- Develop internal policies and training on responsible AI use in legal contexts.
- Implement secure systems for sensitive legal data.
Process Optimization
- Lead process redesign to improve efficiency across legal and business services.
- Standardize service delivery models such as matter and contract lifecycle management.
- Use data to identify inefficiencies and measure performance improvements.
- Provide regular reporting and manage the AI and innovation budget.
Team & Leadership Engagement
- Serve as a member of the IT leadership team and contribute to firm-wide planning.
- Collaborate cross-functionally to deliver business-aligned technology solutions.
- Communicate AI strategies and innovations effectively to technical and non-technical audiences.
Requirements
- 10+ years of experience in legal operations, technology, or innovation leadership roles.
- Located in proximity to one of the company's Canadian offices (Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, Quebec City) and comfortable with a hybrid work environment, 4 days a week in office.
- Proven success leading AI or digital transformation initiatives in a professional services or regulated environment.
- Strong knowledge of AI tools, legal tech (e.g., Harvey, Microsoft Copilot), and data governance practices.
- JD or equivalent legal degree and active membership in a Canadian law society are assets, not requirements.
- Experience with design thinking, Agile, or process improvement methodologies.
- Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
- Ability to lead change, navigate complex systems, and drive cross-functional collaboration.
- Proficiency in French is considered an asset.
Benefits
- Competitive salary starting from $180,000+ based on experience
- Flexible hybrid work model with options across Canadian office locations
- Retirement savings plan with employer contributions
- Comprehensive benefits with premiums covered by the company
- Flexible health and wellness allowance (beyond gym memberships)
- Access to telemedicine services
- Ongoing learning and development opportunities
- Inclusive and equitable workplace culture that supports all career paths