The Corporate Counsel, Yum Strategy and Automation provides legal counsel and strategic support for complex commercial transactions, technology and innovation initiatives, mergers and acquisitions (M&A), refranchising transactions, and global strategic partnerships across Yum! Brands and its operating subsidiaries. This role partners closely with the Yum! Strategy team, including Automation, M&A, and Global Partnerships, to structure, negotiate, and execute agreements that enable business growth and innovation. Working alongside senior Legal leaders and cross-functional stakeholders across Strategy, Finance, Operations, and Technology, the Corporate Counsel will navigate legal and commercial complexities, mitigate risk, and deliver practical, business-oriented solutions that advance Yum!’s global priorities.

Strategic Transactions & Commercial Contracting

Provide legal counsel to the Yum! Strategy team, including Automation, M&A, and Global Partnerships, on strategic transactions, commercial arrangements, and business initiatives.

Support the structuring, negotiation, drafting, and execution of commercial agreements, including master services agreements, SaaS and technology licensing agreements, intellectual property agreements, pilot and evaluation agreements, and nondisclosure agreements.

Serve as primary or supporting counsel on M&A and refranchising transactions, including purchase and sale agreements, ancillary transaction documents, and related real estate matters.

Partner with senior Legal leaders on complex negotiations, coordinating with counterparties and outside counsel to address legal risks and advance business objectives.

Technology, Innovation & Global Partnerships

Advise on strategic technology, automation, and innovation initiatives, providing legal support for commercial arrangements, technology solutions, and emerging business opportunities.

Support the development and execution of global strategic partnerships, including relationships with delivery aggregators and other third-party partners.

Identify and assess legal and contractual considerations associated with new technologies, business models, and strategic initiatives, partnering with relevant Legal specialists as needed.

Legal Risk Management & Cross-Functional Partnership

Provide practical, business-focused legal guidance to internal stakeholders, identifying risks, evaluating alternatives, and recommending solutions that balance legal requirements with business priorities.

Build strong relationships across Legal, Strategy, M&A, Finance, Operations, and Technology to facilitate alignment and support timely business decisions.

Coordinate with internal subject-matter experts and outside legal counsel on matters requiring specialized expertise, ensuring effective communication and resolution of legal issues.

Manage contracting processes and transaction documentation, maintaining organization, accuracy, and timely execution across multiple concurrent initiatives.

Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.

Active membership in the Texas State Bar or another U.S. State Bar.

3+ years of legal experience within a law firm or in-house legal department, with experience advising on corporate and commercial transactions.

Strong knowledge of corporate and contract law, including experience drafting, reviewing, and negotiating commercial agreements.

Experience working with business stakeholders across multiple functions and organizational levels.

Demonstrated ability to manage multiple transactions, competing priorities, and deadlines in a fast-paced business environment.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience advising on technology, SaaS, intellectual property licensing, or other technology-related commercial transactions.

Experience supporting mergers and acquisitions, refranchising, or other corporate transactions.

Familiarity with real estate due diligence, including title, lease, and environmental reviews.

Experience supporting strategic partnerships, particularly within global, consumer-facing, restaurant, or technology-enabled businesses.

Experience working within a large, complex, or multinational organization.

Salary Range: $125,000 to $147,200 annually + bonus eligibility. This is the expected salary range for this position. Ultimately, in determining pay, we'll consider the successful candidate’s location, experience, and other job-related factors.