Legal Counsel, Intellectual Property, 12 month FTC

Canva • San Francisco, CA

4d

About The Position

Canva is seeking a Legal Counsel to join its Intellectual Property & Litigation team. The team manages Canva’s global intellectual property portfolios, advises product teams on IP risks, acquires and licenses creative content, software and AI technologies, and handles litigation and disputes globally. This role focuses on negotiating IP and technology transactions, including agreements involving AI models, software APIs, related technologies, and content such as graphics, photography, video, and music. The Legal Counsel will advise on integrating third-party IP into Canva products, support IP aspects of other contracts, and partner with business teams to help them move quickly while managing commercial risk.

The position is a 12-month fixed-term contract. Applicants must currently be based in San Francisco. Canva offers flexibility in how and where employees work, with virtual interviews.

Requirements

• 6–8 years of post-qualification experience, ideally gained at a top-tier law firm or specialist in-house team focused on technology, copyright, or broad contracts work.
• Demonstrated technology transactions experience gained in-house at a technology company or at a law firm.
• Comfort with the pace and ambiguity of emerging technology, and ability to balance legal risks with business objectives.
• Comfort using AI tools to support AI adoption and integration into legal practices.
• Strong communication skills, including the ability to translate complex legal concepts into practical solutions.
• Must currently be based in San Francisco.

Nice To Haves

• Experience advising AI companies.
• Familiarity with music or other content licensing.

Responsibilities

• Negotiate commercial contracts, particularly inbound AI model provider agreements and content licenses.
• Advise on IP risks and considerations arising from integrating third-party technologies, content, and AI into Canva products.
• Support the Commercial and Product & Privacy Legal team with IP-related aspects of other contracts.
• Draft IP-related terms and conditions for the Canva platform.
• Advise on open source software licensing and assist with managing Canva’s open source policies.
• Advise on IP ownership and licensing in intercompany arrangements and mergers and acquisitions.

Benefits

• Equity packages
• Health benefits plans
• 401(k) retirement plan with company contribution
• Inclusive parental leave policy
• Annual Vibe & Thrive allowance for wellbeing, social connection, office setup, and more
• Flexible leave options

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed