At Emerald Clinical Trials, we are a global, full-service Contract Research Organization (CRO) with a rich heritage in the Asia-Pacific region. We are dedicated to advancing clinical research through scientific expertise and operational excellence, supporting biopharmaceutical, medical device, and diagnostic customers across all trial phases, from registration to post-marketing.

Our therapeutic expertise spans renal, cardiometabolic, and oncology—areas where we make a significant impact on improving global health.

At the heart of our success is our ability to combine global reach with local knowledge. Our on-the-ground teams work closely with local communities, building trust and ensuring diverse, representative patient recruitment. By prioritizing people, we deliver better engagement, more accurate data, and faster results—bringing therapies to patients in need.

About the Role

The role of Senior Legal Counsel at Emerald Clinical Trials handles legal matters for all entities in the group, and is responsible for supporting the Group General Counsel in the provision of legal advice (whether directly or by managing external advisers), to ensure that Emerald Clinical Trials is operating within the parameters prescribed by law, and in accordance with corporate policies, rules and good governance practice in the countries in which we operate. The role will provide global support to all entities, and affiliates where necessary, in the Emerald Clinical Trials group.

The Senior Legal Counsel will comprise part of the Privacy Committee and provide support and advice on aspects of Privacy processes, documentation, and compliance with applicable laws.

The Legal team at Emerald Clinical Trials works on a wide range of matters to support the delivery of successful business outcomes. We are looking for a commercially oriented team player who is excited to embrace global challenges in a growing business.

Key accountabilities

• Provide strategic legal advice to stakeholders on a wide range of issues, including in relation to corporate, commercial, employment, work, health and safety, intellectual property, privacy and cyber security laws.
• Support the General Counsel to advise executives/managers on the legal aspects of activities within their assigned areas and their obligations.
• Deliver quality, timely, and practical legal services to including the review of correspondence having legal implications and third-party actions and complaints (and the preparation of responses for these), the establishment of subsidiary entities and share registries, and the review of legal templates and governing documents.
• Advise and support to Group General Counsel and the Privacy Committee in respect of data protection within all jurisdictions in which the company operates (including compliance), providing legal advice on privacy including cross border transfer.
• Support the negotiation, drafting and settlement of all major agreements to safeguard Emerald Clinical Trials group entities interests.
• Monitor, and ensure timely internal updates, of legislative changes which may affect its activities, including any proposed or existing government policy or directives, and recommend or implement actions as necessary.
• Provision of training to staff in respect of legal obligations.
• Support Group General Counsel in managing corporate risk including identifying and communicating key legal risks and ensure risk management processes are followed and issues addressed appropriately.
• Manage Emerald Clinical Trials’ intellectual property rights.

About You

• Undergraduate degree in law and relevant post-graduate qualifications in a common law country.
• Current legal practicing certificate, with more than 10 years post qualification experience, preferably including at least 5 years expertise inhouse. Applicants without demonstrated in-house experience will not be progressed.
• Privacy law experience
• Expertise in the CRO, pharmaceutical, biotech or life sciences industry is preferred.
• Native level proficiency in verbal and written English.
• Global or regional experience.
• Demonstrated strong legal analysis skills; proven ability to decipher and apply legislation, regulations and government policy; excellent drafting skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to work well autonomously, in small teams and with a wide range of varying stakeholders. Proven ability to build rapport and work effectively with all members of staff, including internal and external stakeholders.
• Ability to think and work independently with minimal guidance. Demonstrating the ability to see the big picture, yet still focus on detail, strong focus on quality of work. Strong accountability and ownership.
• Excellent time management and organisation skills with the proven ability to work flexibly in and changing and ambiguous environments.
• Ability to think laterally with commercially relevant problem solving, analytical skills and proven strategic thinking.
• Strong focus on quality of work and attention to detail whilst maintaining awareness of strategic issues

Why Join Us?

At our core, Emerald Clinical Trials is committed to transforming clinical research by putting people first—both patients and our employees. By joining our team, you’ll be part of a global network of passionate professionals working together to deliver better research and outcomes for millions worldwide.

Here’s what makes us stand out:

• Purpose-Driven Work: You’ll contribute to clinical trials that genuinely improve lives, with a focus on therapies in renal, cardiometabolic, and oncology.

• Global Reach, Local Expertise: Our teams connect with local communities, building trust and meaningful engagement for every trial.

• Collaboration and Innovation: Work in a culture that values diverse perspectives and creative solutions to solve global health challenges.

What We Offer

We understand that great work happens when people feel valued and supported. That’s why we provide:

• Competitive Compensation: A tailored salary and benefits package to reflect your skills and experience.

• Flexibility: Enjoy hybrid or remote working arrangements, depending on your location and role.

• Career Growth: Access to a wealth of learning opportunities and a global network of scientific leaders to help you grow and develop in your role.

• Employee Wellbeing: Participate in programs and initiatives designed to promote work-life balance, health, and team connection, including global engagement surveys, recognition programs, and team-building events.

• Global Opportunities: Be part of a company with international reach, offering you exposure to diverse projects and clients.

Interested? Apply now and help us achieve our mission to improve the health of millions worldwide.

We are an equal-opportunity employer and encourage applications from all qualified candidates.