We are looking for an experienced Data Protection Solicitor with a minimum of 8 years PQE to join Harper James on a consultancy basis. This is an exciting opportunity to support Harper James clients and work with a growing and diverse client base ranging from innovative start‑ups to established national and international businesses.
You will advise on a wide range of data protection and privacy matters within a modern, tech‑enabled law firm. As a consultant within our flexible model, you will manage your own caseload while benefiting from the support, infrastructure and collaborative culture of a forward‑thinking national firm.
What you'll be doing
You will take the lead on a broad range of data protection and privacy matters, supporting businesses with practical, commercially focused advice on compliance, governance and risk management. You will work closely with founders, senior leadership teams, in‑house counsel and operational stakeholders, providing clear, pragmatic guidance that supports business growth while helping organisations meet their regulatory obligations.
Your work is likely to include advising on matters such as:
- UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) compliance and data protection governance
- Data protection audits, policies and internal compliance frameworks
- Drafting and negotiating data processing agreements and data sharing arrangements
- Privacy notices, cookie policies and direct marketing compliance
- International data transfers and transfer risk assessments
- Data subject rights requests and breach response management
- Advising on data protection aspects of commercial contracts and technology arrangements
- Supporting clients with data protection due diligence in corporate transactions
- Advising on artificial intelligence (AI), emerging technologies and privacy risks
- Providing strategic support to businesses acting as controllers and processors
What we're looking for
- Minimum 8 years’ PQE with strong experience in data protection and privacy law
- Demonstrable experience advising on UK GDPR compliance and wider data protection matters
- Experience advising founder‑led businesses, start‑ups and scale‑ups would be advantageous
- Ability to manage matters independently and deliver pragmatic, commercially focused advice
- Strong drafting skills and attention to detail
- Excellent client relationship and stakeholder management skills
- Confidence working with founders, leadership teams and in‑house legal functions
The Harper James difference
We are a tech‑driven, agile law firm where lawyers are empowered with modern legal technology to maximise efficiency, productivity and work‑life balance. Our consultant model offers experienced solicitors flexibility, autonomy and the ability to work remotely, while remaining part of a supportive national team.
At Harper James, we keep things straightforward. We are relaxed and informal but well organised. There are no politics and no big egos, if people around us succeed, so do we. We welcome proactive, self‑motivated solicitors who thrive in a modern legal environment and are passionate about delivering exceptional client service.
You'll excel as part of the HJ team if you
- Are a quick learner, ready to adapt to new systems and technologies
- Are interested in using AI tools to improve efficiency and productivity
- Have a solid working knowledge of Microsoft 365 products (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
- Can confidently navigate SharePoint to manage and collaborate on work
- Have a keen eye for detail when drafting documents, ensuring consistency and professionalism
The bottom line
This is an opportunity to play an important part in the continued growth of the business, working alongside a great team of people who all contribute to our shared success.
- No politics
- No unnecessary bureaucracy
- Flexible working within a fully remote but collaborative team
We are offering a competitive consultancy rate with flexibility and autonomy as part of the Harper James consultant model.
Ready to apply?
If you are ready to apply this role, please complete the application form using the link below.
Alternatively, if you would like to have an initial informal chat with our Senior Talent Acquisition Assistant, Layla Atkinson, to find out more about the role, you can email her directly via layla.atkinson@harperjames.co.uk. Please be assured that all conversations are confidential and we will act discreetly throughout the process.
NO AGENCIES PLEASE.
