Head of Legal and Risk

Appen has been a leader in AI training data for over 25 years, providing high-quality, diverse datasets that power the world's leading AI models. Our end-to-end platform, deep expertise, and scalable human-in-the-loop services enable AI innovators to build and optimize cutting-edge models. We specialize in creating bespoke, human-generated data to train, fine-tune, and evaluate AI models across multiple domains, including generative AI, large language models (LLMs), computer vision, speech recognition, and more.

We’re now seeking an accomplished Head of Legal & Risk to lead Appen’s global legal, and risk functions. This is a pivotal role shaping the company’s governance and strategic direction as we continue to evolve in the fast-moving world of AI and data. Reporting to the CFO, and working closely with the CEO and executive team, you’ll provide trusted advice that enables confident decision-making while ensuring Appen operates with integrity and strong risk management across all jurisdictions.

About the Role

In this role, you’ll oversee all legal, compliance, and risk matters for Appen globally — ensuring our operations meet the highest standards of governance and regulatory compliance while supporting commercial agility. You’ll partner with business leaders to manage key contracts, strengthen frameworks, and embed a culture of proactive risk management across the organisation.

Key areas of responsibility include:

- Providing strategic legal counsel to executives across corporate, commercial, employment, and regulatory matters.

- Overseeing commercial contracts (including customer, supplier, and licensing agreements) and leading the deal desk function.

- Managing dispute resolution, litigation strategy, and engagement with external counsel.

- Advising on ASX and Corporations Act compliance, governance processes, and regulatory obligations.

- Leading the enterprise risk management (ERM) framework and ensuring effective internal controls for legal and operational risk.

- Overseeing compliance programs across privacy, cybersecurity, anti-bribery and corruption, ESG, and trade obligations.

- You’ll act as a strategic partner to senior leaders, shaping policies and frameworks that balance commercial opportunity with ethical, legal, and operational accountability.

About You

You’re an experienced legal leader who combines strategic insight with commercial pragmatism. You’re comfortable operating across diverse legal areas and thrive in environments where law, technology, and innovation intersect.

You’ll bring:

- Tertiary qualifications in Law and current admission to practice in an Australian jurisdiction.

- At least 10 years’ post-qualification experience, including in-house legal counsel roles ideally in technology, data, or listed company environments.

- Strong knowledge of Australian corporate and commercial law, with international exposure highly regarded.

- Demonstrated success in building and leading enterprise risk and compliance frameworks.

- Proven ability to manage complex, cross-border legal issues and partner effectively with senior stakeholders.

Why Appen

At Appen, we foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence. We value curiosity, accountability, and a commitment to delivering the highest-quality AI solutions. We support work-life balance with flexible work arrangements and a dynamic, results-driven environment. Employees have access to competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for continuous learning and career growth.

Our team works closely with the world’s top technology companies and enterprises, tackling exciting challenges and shaping the future of artificial intelligence.

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