Principal Corporate Counsel, Privacy, Advocacy and Regulatory Affairs

Job ID: 200040245Posted: 2026-08-06Location: United States, Washington, RedmondSalary: USD $132,200 - $232,800 per yearEmployment type: Full-TimeWork site: 4 days / week in-officeRole type: Individual ContributorTravel: Less than 25%Profession: LegalDiscipline: Legal CounselCompany: MicrosoftOverviewMicrosoft is looking for an experienced privacy attorney to join our Corporate, External, and Legal Affairs (CELA) team as a Principal Corporate Counsel for Privacy, Advocacy and Regulatory Affairs (PARA). PARA is responsible for advancing Microsoft’s data protection and privacy strategy by engaging with regulators, customers, and other external stakeholders as well as engineering and business groups internally. PARA also develops and maintains the Microsoft Privacy Standard and contributes to core privacy governance and compliance functions. ResponsibilitiesRespond to and interact with data protection authorities regarding Microsoft’s compliance with privacy laws and Microsoft’s personal data processing practices across the full range of Microsoft products. Provide commercial CELA with support to respond to and resolve enterprise customer inquiries and concerns concerning privacy and data protection. Collaborate with product and commercial CELA and other domain experts to provide simple and understandable (i) external descriptions of Microsoft’s processing practices and compliance with privacy and digital laws and (ii) internal guidance regarding privacy and digital laws. Build and maintain strong relationships with external and internal stakeholders, including regulators, customers, industry groups, civil society organizations, and engineering and business teams. Facilitate compliance with privacy laws and regulations, as well as the Microsoft Privacy Standard. Drive innovation and efficiency in PARA’s operations, processes, and tools, leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and other technologies where appropriate. Foster a growth-driven mindset and learning culture in PARA and across CELA. QualificationsRequired Qualifications Juris Doctor Degree or international equivalent degree AND 4+ years experience as a practicing attorney OR equivalent experienceActive license to practice law in a jurisdiction and capable of meeting admission requirements in relevant jurisdiction.Preferred Qualifications Experience working as in-house counsel (or equivalent experience advising corporate clients).Demonstrated expertise in data protection and privacy, with an understanding of how these areas intersect with broader digital regulatory domains such as cybersecurity, digital safety, responsible AI, consumer protection, and competition law.Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to apply practical, risk-based judgment when balancing legal considerations, technological advancement, and innovation.Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively, build trust, and influence a wide range of internal and external stakeholders.Proven ability to think strategically and navigate complex, evolving regulatory environments.Interest in technology, including emerging areas such as artificial intelligence, and a willingness to build familiarity with Microsoft products and services.Alignment with and enthusiasm for Microsoft’s mission and values.Legal Counsel IC4 - The typical base pay range for this role across the U.S. is USD $132,200 - $232,800 per year. There is a different range applicable to specific work locations, within the San Francisco Bay area and New York City metropolitan area, and the base pay range for this role in those locations is USD $165,800 - $248,600 per year. Certain roles may be eligible for benefits and other compensation. Find additional benefits and pay information here:This position will be open for a minimum of 5 days, with applications accepted on an ongoing basis until the position is filled.Microsoft is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, citizenship, color, family or medical care leave, gender identity or expression, genetic information, immigration status, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation, protected veteran or military status, race, ethnicity, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable local laws, regulations and ordinances. If you need assistance with religious accommodations and/or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application process, read more about requesting accommodations.