Meet the Expert - Andrew Farquhar

Andrew is an experienced technology lawyer and founding member of Skyscanner’s legal team. He’s advised Skyscanner throughout its transition from small business to 'unicorn' and is particularly interested in data privacy, IP, commercial contracts, strategic partnerships and brand protection.

How did you get started in this area?

I studied law at Strathclyde Uni and then trained at an international law firm, before specialising in tech and IP related legal issues. I'd always found that side of the law to be most dynamic and interesting, and when the opportunity of a role at my favourite client - Skyscanner - came up, I couldn't say no!

Why are you passionate about Scottish technology?

Working at Skyscanner for the past 5.5 years has made me realise just how positive a vehicle for change technology companies in Scotland can be. The quality of tech and innovation we're seeing in Scotland at the moment is fantastic and really stands up well against some of the other global tech hubs. We don't appreciate enough the quality we have on our doorstep, and I'm passionate about supporting other businesses in the tech scene to follow the same path that Skyscanner has.

What's your one biggest piece of advice for people in the Scottish tech scene?

From a legal perspective, make sure you have documents in place from day one that make clear who owns the intellectual property in the tech you're building. Be warned: unless it's in writing, the code that you've paid a contractor to contribute to your project will be owned by them and not by your business!

What mistakes can people avoid?

Beware of the inflection points as your business grows. You need to be agile and embrace continual change and organisational evolution if you want to scale your business effectively.

What's your vision for the Scottish tech ecosystem?

Vibrant, thriving and a byword globally for high-quality people, innovation and technology.