Stephen Ruse

Stephen is a Director in the Commercial, Technology and Intellectual Property team, advising businesses on intellectual property, software and technology, AI compliance and data protection matters. He works with clients ranging from owner-managed businesses and charities through to national and international organisations, providing practical, commercially-focused advice on complex legal and regulatory issues.

Stephen has particular expertise in data protection and privacy law, advising on UK GDPR compliance, international data transfers, automated decision-making and profiling, data subject rights, data sharing arrangements, data breaches and complex compliance projects. He regularly supports organisations navigating the legal and governance challenges associated with AI and emerging technologies.

His technology practice includes advising on SaaS, software licensing, cloud services, digital platforms, AI solutions and wider technology contracts. He helps clients manage regulatory risk, negotiate commercial arrangements and implement innovative technologies in a legally compliant and commercially effective way.

Stephen also advises on the protection and commercial exploitation of intellectual property rights, including licensing and transfer arrangements. Having previously worked in-house, he understands the practical and commercial pressures facing businesses and focuses on delivering clear, pragmatic advice.

• 2025 – Present: Howes Percival LLP, Director
• 2022 – 2025: Howes Percival LLP, Senior Associate
• 2018 - 2022: Howes Percival LLP, Associate
• 2016 - 2018: Howes Percival LLP, Trainee Solicitor
• 2014 - 2016: Dawsongroup plc, Legal Assistant
• 2011 - 2013: The University of Law, Bloomsbury, Graduate Diploma in Law & Legal Practice Course
• 2008 - 2011: Loughborough University, BSc Economics