Opportunity at
CanvaSenior Legal Counsel, Intellectual Property (Tech Transactions)
Canva is hiring a Senior Legal Counsel, Intellectual Property (Tech Transactions) for its US operations located in San Francisco. The successful candidate will join the Intellectual…
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About This Role
Canva is hiring a Senior Legal Counsel, Intellectual Property (Tech Transactions) for its US operations located in San Francisco. The successful candidate will join the Intellectual Property and Litigation team to build and manage global IP portfolios, handle commercial negotiations, and advise product teams on risk-aware IP strategies. This position requires drafting and negotiating various technology transactions and inbound agreements, with a specific focus on AI model providers, software APIs,…
Job Description
Canva is hiring a Senior Legal Counsel, Intellectual Property (Tech Transactions) for its US operations located in San Francisco. The successful candidate will join the Intellectual Property and Litigation team to build and manage global IP portfolios, handle commercial negotiations, and advise product teams on risk-aware IP strategies.
This position requires drafting and negotiating various technology transactions and inbound agreements, with a specific focus on AI model providers, software APIs, and digital content licenses covering photography, video, music, and graphics. The legal counsel will also guide stakeholders on open-source software policies, integrate third-party technologies into company offerings, and support mergers and acquisitions activity.
Ideal candidates will bring six to eight years of post-qualification experience from a top-tier law firm or specialized in-house legal team, demonstrating a strong background in copyright, technology transactions, or broad commercial contracts. Familiarity with emerging technologies, comfort with fast-paced ambiguity, and a willingness to utilize AI tools within legal practice are essential. Canva offers a comprehensive compensation package that includes equity options, retirement plans, health benefits, and an annual Vibe and Thrive allowance.
Responsibilities
- Negotiate commercial contracts focusing on inbound AI model provider agreements and content licenses
- Provide practical guidance regarding IP risks when integrating third-party technologies and content into products
- Support commercial, product, and privacy legal teams with intellectual property aspects of diverse contracts
- Draft IP-related platform terms and conditions
- Advise on open-source software licensing and manage company open-source policies
- Evaluate IP ownership and licensing matters related to intercompany agreements, mergers, and acquisitions
Requirements
- Possess 6 to 8 years of post-qualification experience
- Bring background in tech transactions, copyright, or broad contracts work from a top-tier firm or specialized in-house team
- Demonstrate comfort with the pace and ambiguity of emerging technology
- Balance legal risks effectively with business objectives
- Show a willingness to use AI tools to drive adoption and integration into legal practices
- Currently be based in San Francisco
Qualifications
- Prior experience advising artificial intelligence companies
- Familiarity with music and alternative content licensing
Core Skills
Benefits
- Equity packages
- Health benefits plans
- 401(k) retirement plan with company contribution
- Inclusive parental leave policy
- Annual Vibe & Thrive allowance
- Flexible leave options
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers are based only on the employer’s listing; where it doesn’t say, neither do we.
Where is this job located?
The role is based in San Francisco, where Canva houses its US operations. Candidates must currently reside in San Francisco.
What is the salary range for this position?
The target salary range is USD 190,000 to 280,000 per year, determined by market data, skills, and experience.
What level of experience is required?
Candidates need 6 to 8 years of post-qualification experience, ideally acquired in a top-tier law firm or a specialized in-house team focused on tech, copyright, or broad contracts.
How are interviews conducted for this role?
Interviews are conducted virtually.
Sample Interview Questions
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