GC Spotlight: David Len explores the future of digital law, AI governance, and tech-enabled legal teams.

Featured in our GC Spotlight Series this month is David Len. David is a technology lawyer with more than 28 years of professional experience in the legal fraternity, both in private practice and in-house. His core expertise is in Technology, Digital, AI, Data, Privacy and Cybersecurity — including Laws, Contracts and Policies, and AI & Data Governance. David graduated with a Bachelor of Laws from Australia, specialising in Corporate and Commercial Law, and holds a Master of Laws from the UK in Information Technology and Telecommunications Law. He is a dual-qualified lawyer in Malaysia and Australia, being an Advocate and Solicitor of Malaya and a Legal Practitioner in New South Wales, Australia, respectively.

David has been appointed as an Industry Fellow by the Centre for Digital Law at Singapore Management University (2025–2027) and as an IAPP Asia Advisory Board Member (2024–2025). David is currently the Head of Digital Legal Services, APAC, at DHL Group.

1. Hi David, can you tell us a little about your role and journey into law? What excites you outside of work? 

I am the Head of Digital Legal Services, APAC, at DHL Group and lead a small team of three. We are part of a global team of technology lawyers supporting all DHL Group business units and service lines, helping ensure our digital, IT, and tech-related contracts are robust, compliant, and aligned with business goals. We are also involved in compliance and governance, especially in the areas of data protection, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence (AI).

My legal journey began 28 years ago in private practice before transitioning in-house across Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, and Singapore. Over the years, I have cultivated a deep focus on digital laws, data protection, cybersecurity, and AI -  areas that continue to evolve and challenge conventional legal thinking.

Outside of work, I enjoy exploring the intersection of technology and law, which has given me the passion to write a book titled AI and Data Governance: A Guide for Professionals and Executives, recently published on Amazon. I believe it is a rewarding way to share ideas and contribute to the growing conversations around how we can govern AI responsibly in organisations.

2. As a Head of Digital Legal Services, what are some of the challenges that keep you up at night? How are you addressing them? 

The expectation to do more with less - less budget, less time, fewer resources -  can feel like baking a cake with half the ingredients and still expecting a five-star result! It is a constant balancing act, but I stay pragmatic and focus on priorities and what really moves the needle.

3. What do you think about the use of LegalTech, data analytics and process optimisation to improve your legal department's value? 

LegalTech, data analytics, and process optimisation are no longer optional - they are essential for work and cost efficiency. They help us work (and look) smarter, reduce friction, and focus on high-value tasks. It’s not about replacing lawyers; it’s about empowering them to focus on thinking, not clicking.

4. What trends do you expect to see in the legal services industry in the next 5 years? 

Legal departments will continue evolving into more tech-enabled, data-driven, and client-centric functions. LegalTech with AI solutions will automate routine tasks, freeing up time for strategic work. We will see a stronger focus on data optimisation, outcome-based service delivery, and cross-functional collaboration. As regulations grow more complex especially around AI and data - governance, risk and compliance (GRC) will become even more critical. The legal function is shifting from being reactive to becoming a proactive business partner to our internal clients.

5. Where do you see NewLaw/ALSP fitting in the matrix of your legal department  

NewLaw and ALSPs play a valuable role in supporting our legal department by handling routine, high-volume tasks efficiently and cost-effectively. They allow us to scale resources flexibly, especially during peak (and non-peak) periods, and bring in specialised legal experts when needed. Rather than replacing traditional legal functions, they complement our team and help us focus on more strategic, high-impact work.

6. What’s your favourite tune and why?  

My favourite tune is Here Comes the Sun by The Beatles. While it is an old song, it reminds me that even after long nights of negotiations or crisis management, there are always better days ahead. It’s uplifting, timeless, and a gentle reminder that optimism and resilience go hand in hand.