Jessica Wood

My Story:

I began my legal career in private practice in 2001, before moving into industry roles that took me into the heart of the SME world – primarily in the Defence, Training, Services and Technology sectors.   Over the years, I have established, built and led integrated Legal, Commercial, Governance, Risk and Compliance teams and worked in strategic leadership roles including as Chief of Staff and Chair of the Board.

I have supported businesses from incorporation, through growth, investment, change and eventual sale.  This journey has given me real insight into the opportunities and pressures faced by growing organisations and a deep appreciation of what founders and leaders really need from their advisors.

Key Expertise:

Commercial strategy / solutions, Complex commercial contracts, Procurement, Tenders / Bid strategy, Technology, Licensing, Defence contracting.

How I Help Clients:

I bring an entrepreneurial mindset and a ‘whole business’ perspective to my client relationships.  My focus is always on commercial outcomes: understanding what matters most and helping clients to navigate obstacles quickly but safely.  I believe that legal advice should be practical, proactive and rooted in the realities of running and scaling a business.

Why Mercurae:

Mercurae’s model represents the future of legal services: agile, collaborative, commercially- focussed and genuinely aligned with a client’s goals.  It’s a place where expertise and individuality sit side-by-side, and where legal work can be delivered in a way that’s modern, human and refreshingly real.  Working as part of your team, my aim is to simplify complexity, anticipate risks and support confident decision-making.

Outside Work:

I live in Wiltshire with my children and love the outdoor, rural life – running, cycling, yoga and pottery (which is really just playing with mud)!  I also enjoy my trips to our London and Newcastle offices and the chance to enjoy the city experience (and, of course, a glass of wine or two with friends).