Mark Watts

BSc (Hons.) Physics, University of Wales
D.Phil Semiconductor Physics, University of Oxford 
Qualified 1995
Partner 2003
 
Mark is an IT specialist with over 12 year's experience. He advises companies on IT legal issues such as software development, system deployment, outsourcing, E-Commerce and data protection.  Much of Mark's experience was gained in-house at IBM where he held various roles.  This gives him a good insight into the ways and workings of the TMT sector.
 
Mark has advised on many high-profile private and public sector outsourcing transactions.  He advises companies deploying business critical IT platforms and applications, as well as advising on the creation of social networking websites, WIKIs and online trading websites.  Mark has particular expertise in data protection; he was Global Privacy Counsel at IBM for many years.  He advises many multinationals companies on general international data protection compliance issues, particularly on international data transfers matters.
 
Mark is on the correspondent panel of Computer Law & Security and is a member of the editorial board of Privacy & Data Protection.
 
Directory credentials 
Recommended in The Legal 500 (2009 edition) and as a leading individual for Data Protection and Information Technology in Chambers and Partners 2010.

Recommended in Legal Experts (2010 edition) as an IT/Telecoms lawyer.

"The talented and experienced Mark Watts earns praise for his pragmatic approach." (Chambers and Partners, 2010)

"Leading the commercial practice is Mark Watts, a former IBM man who led on the Orange deal." (Chambers and Partners, 2010)

"Dr Mark Watts heads the commercial practice and is 'a terrific, multi-talented counsel'." (The Legal 500, 2009) 

"At the core of the firm's data protection team is the "absolutely astonishing" Mark Watts. He has an "encyclopedic knowledge of the area" and is described by one as "a rare mix of academic teacher and practical corporate businessman." "(Chambers and Partners 2009)

"Watts is commended for "his deep knowledge of the technical aspects and excellent commercial mind," (Chambers and Partners, 2009)

"an 'outstanding head for deals' gives Dr Mark Watts an edge on transactional work" (The Legal 500, 2008)

"Dr Mark Watts, who clients say is 'superb and has great insight into the IT industry, helped by his experience as an in-house lawyer, and gives practical, commercial advice'." (The Legal 500, 2007)
 
"The "brilliantly analytical" Mark Watts" (Chambers and Partners 2008)
 
"He gives pragmatic, commercial and quick advice, and helps us navigate difficult waters particularly as regards extra-EU transfers of data and binding corporate rules." (Chambers and Partners 2008)