Chief IP Counsel, Leica Biosystems

Overview

A global leader in workflow and automation solutions for cancer diagnostics is seeking a Chief IP Counsel to develop, implement, and execute a global intellectual property (IP) strategy aligned with business objectives and innovation pipelines. This role requires strategic leadership combined with hands-on execution, including managing a team of IP professionals and handling complex IP matters.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute IP strategies that provide competitive advantage by translating business goals and technology roadmaps into actionable IP plans with clear metrics and resource allocation.
• Build and manage a strategic global IP portfolio, making data-driven decisions on patent prosecution, trademark protection, and trade secret strategies to maximize ROI and minimize risk.
• Lead and mentor a team of IP professionals, establishing standards of excellence and scaling capabilities with business growth.
• Conduct and personally lead freedom to operate analyses, competitive intelligence assessments, and IP due diligence for critical business initiatives, providing clear risk assessments and mitigation strategies.
• Collaborate with contracting teams to support sophisticated licensing, collaboration, and technology transfer agreements, while developing team expertise on standard agreements.
• Manage offensive and defensive IP litigation strategies, including patent litigation, European Oppositions, and U.S. Inter Partes Reviews (IPRs), coordinating internal and external counsel to achieve optimal outcomes.
• Work closely with other Chief IP Counsels across related platforms and operating companies to align and achieve strategic goals.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited U.S. law school with excellent academic credentials.
• Active bar membership in good standing in at least one U.S. jurisdiction.
• Admission to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
• Minimum of 10 years of IP legal experience, including hands-on patent prosecution of complex portfolios and drafting/negotiating IP-related agreements in both law firm and in-house settings.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to clearly explain complex IP issues to business leaders and colleagues at all levels.
• Excellent organizational skills with a demonstrated ability to manage and develop a team while balancing strategic portfolio management and technical work.
• Advanced degree in biological science, chemistry, engineering, or a related field relevant to life sciences or medical diagnostics.
• Experience in the medical device industry.
• Familiarity with international patent law, especially in Europe and China.

Work Arrangements

• Remote position based in the United States.
• Occasional travel required (approximately 15% or less, flexible).

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary range: $220,000 to $260,000 annually.
• Eligible for variable annual incentive compensation based on personal and company performance.
• Eligible for long-term incentives.
• Comprehensive benefits package including paid time off, medical, dental, vision insurance, and 401(k) plan for eligible employees.

Location

• United States (remote)