Ms Ward will oversee the firm’s technology, AI and innovation agenda, supporting the delivery of seamless, efficient, and future‑focused client services.

She brings extensive experience across financial services and professional advisory services, with a strong track record in leading transformational change, AI adoption and governance, cybersecurity, enterprise resilience, and technology strategy.

She has held senior leadership roles including Central Bank of Ireland-approved leadership roles and is an experienced independent non-executive director and chair.

Her work spans AI strategy implementation, operational resilience, cybersecurity, major regulatory change projects including DORA, cloud and enterprise architecture transformation, and complex M&A integrations.

Ms Ward previously held senior roles in PTSB and PwC Ireland.

Arthur Cox’s managing partner, Geoff Moore, said: “At this time when technology advancement is so central to Arthur Cox’s business strategy, this is a pivotal role.

“Jennifer brings deep expertise in AI and innovation, transformational change and enterprise technology, coupled with significant experience navigating complex regulatory environments.

“As part of our management committee, Jennifer’s leadership will be instrumental in shaping the firm’s future, accelerating our adoption of next‑generation tooling, ensuring we have the right tech ecosystem and infrastructure to harness the opportunities ahead, while ensuring that we continue to combine the very best legal expertise with advanced technology solutions that will deliver meaningful benefits for clients.”

Ms Ward added: “Emerging technologies and AI are reshaping how legal services are delivered.

“I’m looking forward to working with my colleagues across the firm to integrate secure, responsible and high‑value technology solutions that enhance how we support our clients.

“Arthur Cox has a long-standing reputation for innovation and I’m excited to build on that foundation, as we further enhance recent technology investments and key partnerships to expand the role of AI and technology-driven solutions to deliver exceptional client services.”

Ms Ward has extensive non‑executive director experience, most recently with the Housing Finance Agency plc. She was shortlisted by the Business Post for Women in STEM – Role Model of the Year 2025 and is a strong advocate for the advancement of women in technology.