Director & Senior Legal Counsel

WD is building the infrastructure behind the AI-driven data economy. As AI scales, so does data. Every interaction, every model, every system generates data that must be stored, managed, and made accessible over time. That’s where we come in. We combine deep engineering expertise with global-scale manufacturing to deliver the storage systems that make AI possible, powering hyperscale data centers, cloud platforms, and enterprise infrastructure worldwide. This isn’t theoretical work. It’s real systems, at real scale, people solving some of the hardest challenges in technology today. We’re looking for people who want to build, solve, and operate at that level. Join us and let’s shape the future of data. While this position is targeted for our primary location, we are also open to considering qualified candidates for our San Jose, California office.  WD is seeking an experienced and commercially astute Director & Senior Legal Counsel to join its Global Commercial Legal team. In this high-impact role, you will serve as a trusted legal partner to WD's Worldwide Sales and Marketing Organization, providing sophisticated legal advice across a broad range of commercial transactions. You will play a central role in shaping go-to-market strategies, managing commercial risk, and supporting commercial operational excellence. This position requires a lawyer who combines deep transactional expertise with strong business judgment, the ability to operate independently in a fast-paced environment, and a genuine commitment to delivering practical, strategic legal solutions. Key Responsibilities Commercial Transactions & Contract Negotiation Draft, review, negotiate, and finalize a wide range of commercial sales and customer agreements, including master purchasing agreements, distribution agreements, nondisclosure agreements, statements of work, amendments, and related business documents. Partner closely with business stakeholders to evaluate transaction risks, develop practical risk mitigation strategies, and drive deals to close efficiently. Go-to-Market & Strategic Support Advise on and support the development of go-to-market strategies from a legal perspective, including drafting enabling agreements and engaging cross-functionally to assess and address legal and business risks. Review and contribute to responses to customer RFPs and RFQs in collaboration with internal teams across sales, finance, and operations. Contract Management & Process Improvement Support and enhance end-to-end contract management process, including the development and maintenance of strategic playbooks, standard templates, and contract lifecycle management (CLM) workflows related to sales transactions. Champion the use of technology and process innovation to improve efficiency and consistency across the global commercial legal function. Oversee and provide quality guidance to contract administrators and managers within the commercial organization as needed. Special Projects Lead or contribute to special legal and business initiatives as assigned, demonstrating flexibility and a collaborative approach across the broader legal team. Required Experience: 8 or more years of relevant transactional legal experience in a law firm, in-house legal department, or government legal setting, with a demonstrated track record of drafting, reviewing, and negotiating complex commercial and sales-related agreements. License: Current member in good standing of a U.S. State Bar, or Registered In-House Counsel in California (or eligible therefor); Juris Doctorate from an ABA-accredited law school or its equivalent. Subject Matter Knowledge: Working knowledge of U.S. consumer protection, competition, and intellectual property laws. Language: Professional fluency in English, both written and verbal. Preferred Experience working in or with technology companies or the broader technology industry. Additional language proficiency is a plus. Competencies & Success Factors Business Partnership:  Ability to engage deeply with business objectives, translate legal risk into actionable strategy, and serve as a trusted advisor rather than a gatekeeper Transactional Excellence: Consistent delivery of high-quality, timely work product across a broad range of commercial matters Independent Judgment : Proven ability to operate autonomously, manage competing priorities, and exercise sound judgment with limited supervision Collaboration:  Effective cross-functional partner who builds trust with internal stakeholders, teammates, and outside counsel; comfortable working across cultures and time zones Communication: Clear, concise, and respectful communicator — both one-on-one and in group settings Leadership & Mentorship: Willingness to guide and develop less experienced counsel and contract administrators; leads by example Detail & Rigor: Strong analytical skills and meticulous attention to detail in all work product Integrity: Unwavering commitment to WD's corporate values, ethics, and Code of Conduct Adaptability:  Thrives in a demanding, high-volume environment while maintaining quality and positive relationships Growth Mindset: Self-motivated, resourceful, and enthusiastic about continuous learning and improvement About WD's Legal Team WD's Legal department operates as a strategic business partner across a global, fast-moving technology company. Our commercial legal team supports one of the world's leading data infrastructure businesses, working at the intersection of technology, commerce, and law. We value lawyers who are intellectually curious, business-minded, and committed to excellence. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines. WD is committed to providing equal opportunities to all applicants and employees and will not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on their race, color, ancestry, religion (including religious dress and grooming standards), sex (includ