Intellectual Property Legal Director

Why join us?

DWF are seeking a talented and motivated Intellectual Property (IP) lawyer to join as a Legal Director to help us develop and grow our Intellectual Property practice within our Commercial team.

In this role, the successful candidate will be responsible for developing and executing comprehensive strategies related to the protection of intellectual property for DWF’s clients. The candidate will possess a deep understanding of IP law and its commercial application across various industries, coupled with strong communication and leadership skills to deliver robust legal and commercial advice to our clients and to develop a team of legal professionals.

This position not only requires an excellent knowledge of IP law and relevant legal principles but also demands strong analytical, strategic and commercial awareness to navigate complex legal issues and advise clients effectively. The IP Legal Director will collaborate closely with clients to understand their specific needs and provide tailored legal solutions that align with their business objectives.

This role will involve collaborating with colleagues and clients across our business as part of an integrated IP practice covering both contentious and non-contentious IP work. We are looking for a collaborative and proactive individual who can drive innovation and the growth and development of the IP practice while fostering an environment of excellence in legal service delivery.

We are looking for someone to be based at either our Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds or Birmingham office and can offer a flexible, hybrid working approach.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the non-contentious side of the Intellectual Property practice, ensuring the delivery of high-quality legal services.
• Develop and implement strategies for the protection and commercial use of intellectual property rights.
• Advise clients on a wide range of IP matters, including protection, registration and licensing.
• Conduct thorough legal research and analysis to support IP-related matters (including support on Corporate transactions).
• Advise clients on commercial arrangements and negotiations related to intellectual property matters.
• Monitor and analyse changes in IP law and market trends to inform clients and internal colleagues.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate IP advice and solutions into broader business initiatives.

What will help you succeed in this role?

Essential

• Previous hands-on experience in advising clients on IP law, the protection of IP and the commercial use of IP rights.
• Extensive knowledge of trademark, copyright, design rights, brand protection and trade secret laws with some knowledge on patents.
• Collaborative with proven experience in building and developing strong relationships with clients and colleagues.

Desirable

• Previous experience in developing and growing an Intellectual Property team is beneficial.
• Strong analytical, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent negotiation and communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Ability to build and maintain strong client relationships and to work effectively under pressure.
• Intellectual Property certificate or accreditations would be beneficial, but not essential.

What we offer?

We are committed to ensuring that each member of our team feels valued and has the opportunity to grow, develop and build long-term careers with us. We are a business that is committed to flexible working whilst always seeking to build a strong and cohesive culture that enables us to work as an effective team and deliver the services that our clients require.

We are an equal opportunities employer that celebrates diversity, and we are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all. We aim to create a positive experience for all candidates and offer any adjustments or additional support needed. If you're excited about the opportunity but your experience doesn’t align perfectly with all the requirements, please apply anyway. You may be the right candidate for the role or others across the wider team.

About Us

DWF is a leading global provider of integrated legal and business services. Our approach delivers efficiency, price certainty and transparency for our clients across the world without compromising on quality or service. Our purpose is to deliver positive outcomes with our colleagues, clients and communities and we foster a culture that places our colleagues at the centre of all that we do.