Job Title:
IP Operations Manager
Job Responsibilities:
The IP Operations Manager is responsible for leading and enhancing the business operations of the Intellectual Property Practice Group at a national law firm. This role emphasizes workflow efficiency, service quality, and best practices in IP prosecution. Key responsibilities include:
- Planning, organizing, and overseeing practices, policies, work processes, quality control, and compliance for the IP Practice Group.
- Researching, implementing, and maintaining technology and workflow solutions to support operational efficiency, productivity, and exceptional client service.
- Managing and overseeing the IP docketing system, CPi, to ensure docket integrity, compliance, and proper utilization by IP business professionals and attorneys.
- Managing the implementation, adoption, and maintenance of PracticeLink, including organizing training and liaising with vendors and project teams.
- Overseeing document management practices and coordinating the transfer of IP files for clients and attorneys.
- Liaising with the USPTO on system outages, account maintenance, rule changes, and new initiatives.
- Regularly reviewing IP operations for efficiency improvements through workflows, automation, or technology.
- Staying current with changes in IP law, firm policies, and software that impact data or docket deadlines, and implementing necessary changes.
- Organizing regular meetings with IP Practice Group leadership and participating in group meetings.
- Organizing and maintaining knowledge management resources, particularly for IP software platforms.
- Assisting in onboarding and integrating business professionals and attorneys through orientation and training.
- Ensuring business professionals develop necessary skills and knowledge, identifying skill gaps, and implementing training.
- Fostering a positive and inclusive work culture by motivating employees, promoting teamwork, and maintaining engagement and job satisfaction.
- Providing continuous coaching and mentorship to direct reports for professional growth and skill development.
Education and Experience Information:
- A Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience is required.
- Prior experience in IP practice within a law firm or in-house legal department is required, preferably in a managerial capacity.
- Supervisory experience in a professional services environment with proven ability to manage, coach, and motivate is necessary.
- Project management experience is required.
- Strong and current knowledge of patent and trademark laws, regulations, procedures, and docketing software/procedures is essential.
- Working knowledge of USPTO procedures, 37 ., and the Trademark Manual of Examining Procedure (TMEP) is needed, with the ability to stay current on updates and rules.
- Experience with PracticeLink, CPi, or comparable IP software platforms is required, along with expertise in data management, docket system utilization, and docket integrity and control.
- Proficiency in the Microsoft Office suite, NetDocuments (or comparable document management system), and the ability to gain proficiency in other firm applications is required.
- Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills are necessary, with the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
- Demonstrated initiative, effort, and commitment towards driving results are required.
- Ability to travel as needed across the firm’s footprint is required.
Salary Information:
The law firm offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and a 401k/profit sharing retirement package.
Legal and Compliance Information:
In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. The law firm is fully committed to equality of opportunity in all aspects of employment. It is the policy of the law firm to provide equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, military status, veteran status, age, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, physical or mental disability, or any other protected status.
