Principal Corporate Counsel, Procurement & Construction

Microsoft•Washington, DC

About The Position

Microsoft’s Corporate and External Legal Affairs (CELA) team has an exciting opportunity within the CELA Infrastructure Legal Affairs team supporting Microsoft’s Cloud Operations + Innovation division to build hyperscale infrastructure for its rapidly expanding global cloud. We are seeking an experienced commercial attorney to support one of the world’s largest cloud infrastructures, responsible for operating all Microsoft online products and services, including AI tools such as Copilot. Our focus is on smart growth, high efficiency, and delivering a trusted experience to customers and partners worldwide. This is a fast-growing division that is investing in datacenter capabilities and innovative projects around the world that can truly make a difference. As the Principal Corporate Counsel, Procurement and Construction, you will support supply chain procurement and construction for our datacenter builds. This is a unique opportunity to help Microsoft build hyperscale infrastructure for its rapidly expanding global cloud. Microsoft’s mission is to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more, and we are dedicated to this mission across every aspect of our company. Our Culture is centered on embracing a growth mindset and encouraging teams and leaders to bring their best each day. Join us and help shape the future of the world.

Requirements

Juris Doctor Degree or international equivalent degree AND 4+ years experience as a practicing attorney
OR equivalent experience.
Active license to practice law in a jurisdiction and capable of meeting admission requirements in relevant jurisdiction.

Nice To Haves

4+ years experience advising on complex commercial transactions, including developing, negotiating, and documenting contracts and counseling on disputes/claims.
4+ years experience with complex supply chain processes and infrastructure projects, including product purchase, A/E services, and different construction delivery models (e.g., EPC and design-build).

Responsibilities

Provide legal oversight for a high volume of complex procurement, design, and construction related agreements in support of cloud and datacenter infrastructure.
Partner closely with business teams in negotiations with manufacturers, contractors, designers, consultants, and key suppliers; advising business partners on risk allocation, deal structure, compliance, and other aspects of contracts.
Providing day-to-day legal support for procurement processes and construction projects, including counseling on contract administration, notices, and claim and dispute resolution and avoidance.
Managing outside counsel and specialized advisors, including commercial advice, contract negotiation, and dispute management.
Collaborating with team members within and across organizational boundaries, including engineering, procurement, finance, compliance and other teams.
Supporting the development and continuous improvement of playbooks, templates, and clause libraries; driving process improvements to improve quality and reduce contract cycle time; collaborating with business teams in the development of new deal structures.
Developing trusted advisor relationships with business clients and executives by providing practical, risk-based guidance that supports timely project delivery.
Able to quickly and accurately identify legal issues in a complex and ambiguous environment and develop solutions through sound judgment.
Apply technology, including AI, to improve legal work and efficiency.
Approaching the day-to-day work with curiosity and flexibility.
Effective collaboration and seeking out diverse perspectives.
Embody our Culture and Values