Ready to take your in-house legal career to the next level? One of the most powerful ways to grow might not be in your job description—it might be outside of it. Taking on external advising roles can be a game-changer for in-house lawyers. It helps you grow faster, build a broader network, and gain fresh perspectives that go beyond your everyday work. This is particularly true in areas you haven’t explored yet.
That’s exactly what Alexandra Ross, Senior Director of Privacy, Data Use, and Ethics at Autodesk, has done. Her journey offers a compelling blueprint for those looking to grow intentionally. This is through external advising for in-house lawyers interested in broader legal contexts.
Watch the full conversation with Alexandra Ross here:
Advising Beyond the Job Title
Alexandra’s path has taken her from intellectual property associate to leading privacy functions at major companies like Walmart and Autodesk. Her shift into privacy law, once considered niche, placed her at the forefront of innovation in data regulation and ethics.
But her contributions go well beyond her job title. Alexandra advises privacy tech startups like Breach RX and The Rise of Privacy Tech, where she shares her expertise through mentoring, coaching, and consulting. These roles demonstrate how external advising for in-house lawyers can extend their influence and relevance across industries.
Why It’s Worth Your Time
External advising offers more than compensation. Alexandra’s first advising role started with a conversation—not a pitch. What followed was an equity-based agreement grounded in trust and shared values.
The real benefits? Learning, connection, and impact. Advising roles expose you to new challenges and ideas, helping you grow sharper and more adaptive. For Alexandra, the reward comes from contributing to causes she believes in and supporting others on their journey—something many in-house lawyers are well-positioned to do.
Expand Your Skills Without Leaving Your Role
External advising allows in-house lawyers to try on new roles—whether in startups, tech, or policy—without leaving their full-time jobs. These engagements offer space for your voice to be heard and your strategic thinking to evolve.
Participating in professional communities like the International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP) and ACCA has also helped Alexandra deepen her industry insight and visibility. It’s not just about networking—it’s about shaping the conversations that define your field.
So, What’s the Takeaway?
External advising for in-house lawyers isn’t about prestige—it’s about purposeful growth. By seeking out roles that align with your expertise and values, you can deepen your skillset, expand your network, and gain a broader view of your profession. You already have something valuable to share. Why not start sharing it—and grow in the process?
Watch the full conversation here: Notes to My (Legal) Self: Season 4, Episode 8 (ft.Alexandra Ross)
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At Notes to My (Legal) Self®, we’re dedicated to helping in-house legal professionals develop the skills, insights, and strategies needed to thrive in today’s evolving legal landscape. From leadership development to legal operations optimization and emerging technology, we provide the tools to help you stay ahead.
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