Legal Counsel, Data Privacy and AI

International Justice Mission•Virginia - Hybrid, VA

11d•Hybrid

About The Position

International Justice Mission (IJM) is seeking a Legal Counsel, Data Privacy and AI to serve as the primary legal advisor and domain owner for data privacy, artificial intelligence, information governance, cybersecurity, and related technology matters. This role is responsible for advancing IJM’s global legal framework for responsible data and technology use, providing both strategic legal leadership and hands-on legal support. Working closely with Global Functions, Regional teams, and senior leaders, this role enables mission-critical data and technology initiatives by delivering practical legal guidance, advising on legal and regulatory risk, and developing scalable governance frameworks that support IJM's work across multiple jurisdictions. The position leads complex or high-risk matters related to privacy, AI, cybersecurity, data sharing, and emerging technologies, helping ensure that innovation and operational effectiveness are pursued in ways that are lawful, ethical, and aligned with IJM's mission and values.

Requirements

A law degree (J.D. or international equivalent) with active bar membership.
At least 7 years of active legal practice experience, including demonstrated experience supporting data privacy, artificial intelligence, technology, cybersecurity, or information governance matters in an in-house, law firm, government, or nonprofit setting.
Demonstrated experience advising and influencing senior stakeholders on strategic, operational, or cross-functional issues.
Experience supporting complex or international organizations, including for-profit entities, non-profit organizations, development agencies, international bodies, or government institutions.
Demonstrated ability to advise and influence with sound judgment and strategic perspective; and strong analytical, communication, and collaboration skills.
Demonstrated expertise in data privacy, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data governance, technology law, or related areas, with the ability to independently lead complex or high-risk matters within these areas.
Strong working knowledge of multiple legal disciplines relevant to global operations, such as contracts, intellectual property, regulatory compliance (GDPR), or cross-border legal considerations, with the ability to operate effectively in an organization with an international footprint.
Experience advising on legal and regulatory issues in complex, multinational, or highly regulated environments, including nonprofit, governmental, international, or similarly mission-driven organizations.
Eager commitment to IJM's Core Values: Christian, Professional and Bridge-Building
Strong judgment, integrity, and discretion, particularly in complex, high‑risk, or sensitive situations
High degree of ownership and initiative, with the ability to operate independently in a lean and evolving environment
Emotional intelligence and cultural fluency, enabling effective engagement across regions, functions, and varied stakeholder groups
Strong interpersonal skills and self-awareness
Collaborative, solutions-oriented, and adaptable approach to complex challenges
Effective team player who fosters a collaborative environment
Adept at creative problem solving and balancing legal risk with practical operational needs.
Candidates must have the right to work in the US.

Responsibilities

Serve as IJM’s lead legal counsel for Data Privacy and AI, providing expertise in privacy, AI, cybersecurity, data governance, and related technology matters.
Set priorities and lead execution of the Data Privacy and AI legal portfolio in alignment with IJM’s Theory of Change and strategic objectives.
Provide legal analysis and guidance on complex, sensitive, and high-risk matters, supporting senior leadership decision-making.
Foster a culture of integrity, collaboration, sound judgment, and responsible stewardship of data and technology.
Partner with Technology and Legal Affairs colleagues to develop and advance legal strategies related to privacy, AI, cybersecurity, data governance, and enterprise technology.
Monitor legal, regulatory, and technology developments and implement proactive approaches that support IJM’s global operations.
Lead legal workstreams for AI adoption, digital transformation, data governance, and other enterprise technology initiatives.
Develop practical frameworks, tools, and guidance that enable responsible innovation and informed decision-making.
Build and maintain trusted relationships with Technology, Information Security, Data Governance, Program, Regional, and Global Function leaders.
Serve as the primary legal partner for privacy, AI, and technology matters, integrating legal considerations into organizational decision-making.
Collaborate with Legal Affairs, Regional Counsel, Risk, Compliance, and other stakeholders to ensure coordinated legal support across jurisdictions.
Manage relationships with external counsel, industry peers, and professional networks.
Advise on policies, standards, procedures, governance frameworks, and controls related to privacy, AI, cybersecurity, technology use, and data governance.
Provide guidance on the collection, use, sharing, retention, transfer, inventory, access management, and protection of data across multiple jurisdictions.
Develop and maintain templates, playbooks, contractual standards, and guidance materials supporting technology and data-related activities.
Identify compliance gaps and drive improvements to legal processes, governance structures, and compliance programs.
Deliver clear, practical, risk-based legal advice on privacy, AI, cybersecurity, and technology governance matters.
Translate complex legal and regulatory requirements into actionable guidance for stakeholders at all levels.
Advise and influence senior leaders by clearly communicating legal risks, options, and recommendations.
Prepare legal opinions, briefings, and risk assessments that support effective decision-making.
Develop and deliver training, awareness programs, and educational resources related to privacy, AI, cybersecurity, and responsible data use.
Build organizational understanding of legal and compliance requirements affecting technology and data activities.
Equip stakeholders with practical tools and guidance to identify, manage, and mitigate legal and compliance risks.