Executive Director, Intellectual Property Counsel

Position Responsibilities

The key responsibilities for this role include:

• Develop and implement global intellectual property strategies aligned with corporate and portfolio objectives
• Build, manage, and optimize patent portfolios for pipeline and marketed assets
• Oversee patent preparation and prosecution activities globally in partnership with outside counsel
• Conduct patentability, freedom-to-operate, and competitive landscape analyses
• Lead IP support for business development activities, including due diligence and transaction-related matters
• Advise on IP aspects of collaborations, licensing, and other strategic agreements
• Review scientific disclosures and publications to ensure protection of intellectual property
• Cook up with external partners, collaborators, and outside counsel on IP matters
• Support and manage IP disputes and administrative proceedings, including oppositions and post-grant challenges
• Counsel senior leadership on IP risks, opportunities, and competitive positioning

Education & Experience

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited U.S. law school; active license in at least one U.S. jurisdiction
• Admission to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office required
• Strong expertise in patent prosecution, portfolio strategy, and global IP management
• Excellent communication and strategic thinking skills, with the ability to translate complex scientific concepts into actionable IP strategies
• Prior in-house experience in the biopharmaceutical industry
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and work cross-functionally
• 18+ years of relevant experience with 10+ years of intellectual property experience in the biotechnology or pharmaceutical industry

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree in a life sciences discipline (e.g., chemistry or related field)
• Prior in-house experience in the biopharmaceutical industry
• Experience supporting small molecule or metabolic disease portfolios
• Familiarity with ex-U.S. patent strategy and global IP frameworks

Key Competencies

• Deep knowledge of U.S. and international patent law, with the ability to apply it in a practical, business-focused way
• Strong interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence, with a collaborative, low-ego approach to partnering across functions
• Proven ability to manage competing priorities and timelines, exercising sound judgment on when to lead directly and when to leverage internal and external resources
• High standards of integrity, professionalism, and accountability
• Clear and effective communicator, with the ability to translate complex legal and scientific concepts for diverse audiences
• Strong attention to detail, with the ability to deliver high-quality work in a fast-paced environment
• Team-oriented mindset with a willingness to contribute beyond core responsibilities
• Intellectual curiosity and a genuine interest in science, innovation, and continuous learning