Counsel, Information Technology, and Intellectual Property

The Counsel, Information Technology, and Intellectual Property is responsible for providing legal support and advice on various Information and Technology (I&T) contracts and Intellectual Property (IP) matters. The role is accountable for drafting, reviewing, negotiating, and managing a wide range of I&T contracts, such as Software as a Service (SaaS), software licenses, outsourcing agreements, data protection agreements, and other technology-related contracts. Furthermore, the incumbent handles IP matters, such as CN’s patent portfolio, trade secrets, trademarks, and copyright issues, and advises on IP strategy, protection, and enforcement.

·       Draft, review, negotiate and manage I&T contracts with internal and external parties, ensuring compliance with CN policies and applicable laws and regulations

·       Advise on legal risks, obligations, and opportunities arising from I&T contracts and transactions

·       Provide legal support and guidance on IP matters, such as patent applications, IP portfolio management, trademark protection, IP disputes, and due diligence

·       Monitor and update on relevant legal developments and best practices in I&T and IP law

·       Collaborate with team members and business units on cross-functional projects

·       Manage external counsel and vendors as needed

The role is performed in an office environment with a regular workweek from Monday to Friday. Due to the nature of the role, the incumbent must be able to meet tight deadlines, handles pressure, and stress as well as be able to effectively prioritize and handle multiple time-sensitive projects simultaneously. 

Information Technology and Intellectual Property Law

·       Minimum 5 years of relevant experience in I&T and IP law, at a top-tier law firm or as part of the legal department of a large company

·       Law Degree from an accredited Law school

·       Member of the Bar in a Canadian province or territory

·       Applies critical thinking 

·       Knows the business and stays current on industry needs 

·       Demonstrates agility and drives change 

·       Collaborates with others and shares information 

·       Sets direction and inspires others 

·       Communicates with impact 

·       Demonstrates active listening 

·       Identifies needs and finds solutions to create value for all stakeholders 

·       Strong knowledge and understanding of I&T and IP contracts, laws, and regulations

·       Knowledge of drafting contracts and negotiation techniques and best practices

·       Fluently Bilingual, both written and verbal (English, French)

This position is posted as a grade 5. For internal candidates, note that the grade level of the position may adjust based on the employee's experience.

CN is a world-class transportation leader and trade-enabler. Essential to the economy, to the customers, and to the communities it serves, CN safely transports more than 300 million tons of natural resources, manufactured products, and finished goods throughout North America every year. As the only railroad connecting Canada’s Eastern and Western coasts with the Southern tip of the U.S. through a 19,500 mile rail network, CN and its affiliates have been contributing to community prosperity and sustainable trade since 1919. CN is committed to programs supporting social responsibility and environmental stewardship. At CN, we work as ONE TEAM, focused on safety, sustainability and our customers, providing operational and supply chain excellence to deliver results.