Corporate Counsel - Incubation, Data, & AI Stra...

The application window is expected to close on: 10/15/2026

“Members of the Legal organization at select locations will generally be expected to follow a hybrid work model, which includes two days of in-office attendance each week, with limited exceptions.”

Meet the team:
As Cisco leads in AI innovation—both within our product portfolio and across internal operations—the volume and complexity of AI-related procurement and strategic transactions have grown significantly. Our team is tasked with managing high-stakes deal negotiations, coordinating with leadership, and ensuring consistent protection of Cisco's IP and data in an AI environment. We are seeking a seasoned counsel to join our team, provide deep institutional knowledge, and drive our FY27 AI acceleration goals by helping us drive and close Cisco's high impact deals.

Your Impact:

• 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.

Minimum Qualifications:

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

Preferred Qualifications:
1-2 years of experience with AI/ML legal issues