Senior Director - Patent Counsel

Overview

An established global healthcare organization is seeking a Senior Director - Patent Attorney with expertise in pharmaceutical patent law, particularly related to peptides and biologic therapeutics. This role involves providing strategic, solutions-oriented advice and counseling on intellectual property issues throughout the discovery, development, and commercialization of pharmaceutical products.

Responsibilities

• Draft and prosecute pharmaceutical patent applications across multiple jurisdictions, focusing on peptides and biologic therapeutics.
• Analyze risks proactively and develop strategic and tactical approaches aligned with business objectives and legal requirements.
• Advise teams and senior management on exclusivity, freedom to operate, due diligence, contracts, licensing, and litigation risks.
• Develop, coordinate, support, and potentially lead inter and ex parte patent challenges globally.
• Participate in departmental mentorship forums and contribute to patent procurement and litigation strategies.
• Stay current with global laws, court precedents, and regulations relevant to pharmaceutical products and apply this knowledge effectively.
• Lead and manage projects, implement new policies and procedures, and guide task-directed teams.
• Foster efficiency, collegiality, and collaboration within the team.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a scientific field providing sufficient background to communicate effectively with scientists and management regarding discovery, development, and commercialization of small molecule products.
• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree.
• Minimum of four years post-J.D. experience as a patent attorney in a law firm or industry.
• At least four years of experience preparing and prosecuting patent applications related to peptides and biologics, with some experience in small molecule patent applications.
• Licensed to practice law in at least one U.S. state and authorized to represent clients before the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
• Must be authorized to work in the United States full-time without employer sponsorship.

Preferred Qualifications

• Highly motivated and collaborative, able to work effectively with team members and management at all levels.
• Demonstrated leadership and efficiency in working with senior leadership.
• Experience in the pharmaceutical industry in drug discovery or development, or significant knowledge of drug discovery, development, and pharmaceutical patent litigation.
• Innovative mindset with the ability to identify opportunities and develop creative solutions.
• Strong influencing and leadership skills in a dynamic environment.
• High learning agility, including problem-solving, managing complexity, and adapting to change.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Proven ability to handle confidential information appropriately.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary range: $154,500 - $226,600, dependent on education, experience, skills, and location.
• Eligibility for company bonus based on individual and company performance.
• Comprehensive benefits package including 401(k), pension, vacation, medical, dental, vision, prescription drug coverage, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, leave benefits, and wellness programs.

Location

• Preference for candidates based in Indianapolis, Indiana.

The organization is committed to equal employment opportunities and provides accommodations for individuals with disabilities during the application process.