Mark Watts

Partner – Data protection & privacy

Mark Watt's headshot

Mark leads the firm’s technology sector group. He has a doctorate in semiconductor physics from the University of Oxford and specialises in how data protection works in a technology context, particularly new technologies, such as cloud computing, AI, facial recognition and Adtech. For several years, Mark was in-house at IBM where he held various roles, including that of Global Data Privacy Counsel.

Mark’s practice comprises helping clients to establish proportionate and pragmatic compliance programs globally, product counselling for several of the largest technology companies and representing companies in connection with regulatory enforcement. Mark has defended companies in several of the largest, most high profile regulatory enforcement actions in the world, both in respect of data breaches and also data misuse cases.

Credentials

  • BSc (Hons) Physics, University of Wales
  • D.Phil Semiconductor Physics, University of Oxford
  • Qualified 1995
  • Partner 2003
  • Joint Managing Partner 2010 – 2016

Expertise

IT & digital projects Data protection & privacy Cyber & data breaches Artificial intelligence AI & Technology regulation

Publications

Data Protection publication

Read here

What others say

“Mark Watts - I cannot say enough about how great Mark is. He is smart, gives really good useful advice, but is also casual and not too formal, which makes him easy to talk to. I don't just think of Mark as our outside lawyer; he's more like a trusted adviser and friend.” Legal 500 2027
“Mark Watts is the best data protection lawyer I have ever worked with. He’s a true genius and also one of the nicest people you’ll ever meet. Our team loves him; he’s the best.” Legal 500 2027
“Mark is the best privacy adviser in Europe, in my view.” Chambers and Partners 2026
“A true privacy expert - Mark is the best data protection lawyer I work with. He is a true genius and also one of the nicest people you’ll ever meet.” Chambers and Partners 2026
“Mark well understands our industry and the issues we face. He is always willing to facilitate how to get the best advice while understanding budgetary constraints.” Chambers and Partners 2026
“Mark Watts is a fantastic lawyer with extensive knowledge of the subject matter and a very practical and business friendly approach to advice. He is always willing to look at each problem from multiple perspectives and assesses the risk based on real world considerations rather than theoretical assumptions. His advice is always clear and well thought out.” Legal 500 2026
“Mark Watts has been a very good source of truth and ideas. In an area where legal changes are plenty, he is always a good sounding board as well as a seasoned lawyer.” Legal 500 2026
“Mark Watts is ex-IBM and he is impressive.” Chambers and Partners 2025
“He has essentially all of the excellent qualities you want in your external counsel but which you don't always get.” Chambers and Partners 2025
“Paired with his unparalleled knowledge of the privacy landscape, he is one I would always trust with the most important strategic matters.” Chambers and Partners 2025
“We work primarily with Mark Watts and Jamie Drucker. Both are highly knowledgeable and professional, and have a very strong focus on understanding client requirements.” Legal 500 2025

Recommended For

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Legal 500 2027

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Legal 500 2027

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Data Protection, Privacy and Cybersecurity (Hall of Fame)

Legal 500 2026

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Legal 500 2026

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Chambers and Partners 2025

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