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Trade Mark Counsel

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Unilever

Jan 18

Applications are closed

  • Job
    Full-time
    Senior Level
  • Legal
  • London

Requirements

  • Qualified TM Attorney (5+ years PQE)
  • Proven track record in international TM portfolio management, preferably within an FMCG
  • Self-starter, curious with strong attention to detail.
  • Ability to provide advice in plain non-legal jargon.
  • Strong organisational and prioritisation skills to cope with multiple stakeholders, competing deadlines and priorities, often at very short notice.
  • Experience of using and interrogating data from TM database systems and searching tools is essential (Corsearch, TM Now).
  • Creativity in problem solving.
  • Team player.
  • Self-confident integrity – ability to objectively judge risk and when to counsel or influence business.
  • Excellent project management skills and strong understanding of stakeholder management.
  • Experience of working in-house within a global matrix organisation preferable.
  • Passion for tech an advantage
  • Experience in managing budgets
  • Champion IP within the business and pro-actively communicating the value of IP and advocating for changes in business behaviour where needed.
  • Collaborating with other team members to leverage and drive best practice.
  • Business partnering and stakeholder management are key requirements of this role.

Responsibilities

  • Working closely with the Head of Trade Marks/Brand Protection, you will be responsible for the following areas:
  • Clearance: develop strategies and conduct and advise on all aspects of TM clearance using a combination of industry search tools and external legal support on a global basis.
  • Protection and maintenance: build strategies for what TMs to protect and where, considering ownership structures to deliver optimal protection; dealing with all aspects of prosecution and evidence requirements.
  • Watching: analyze results and ensure Unilever assets are appropriately monitored and protected
  • Oppositions, cancellations and invalidity actions, as well as pre-action correspondence and enforcement actions (civil/criminal) as well as customs, and online and offline monitoring.
  • Managing the trade mark portfolios for which you are responsible within budget.
  • Oversee the preparation of necessary official and evidentiary documents.
  • Work closely with the legal team on other IP areas such as licensing, copyright issues, designs, patents, usage rights as needed
  • Pro-active involvement in team meetings including regular presentations and education of team members on relevant issues.
  • Educate the business on IP issues and policy.
  • Support Licensing and M&A teams on IP advice
  • Work closely with Patent Attorneys and Design Counsels, and wider legal team on all areas of product launch.
  • Spot wider legal issues e.g. competition risk, design rights, marketing and advertising law.

FAQs

What is the job title for this position?

The job title is Trade Mark Counsel.

Where is the job located?

The job is located at 100 Victoria Embankment, London, and will move to the new Kingston Campus in early 2025.

What qualifications are required for this position?

The candidate must be a qualified TM Attorney with at least 5 years of post-qualification experience (PQE).

What experience is preferred for the role?

A proven track record in international trade mark portfolio management, preferably within the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector, is preferred.

What are the core responsibilities of the Trade Mark Counsel?

Core responsibilities include trade mark clearance, protection and maintenance of trade marks, monitoring IP assets, managing trade mark portfolios, and providing IP advice in licensing and M&A contexts.

Is there flexibility in working hours?

Yes, while the role is advertised as full-time, the company is open to discussing flexible working options.

What kind of support does Unilever offer to its employees?

Unilever offers competitive salary packages, an annual bonus, subsidised gym memberships, a discounted staff shop, shares, support programs for wellbeing, and opportunities for professional development.

How does Unilever promote diversity and inclusion?

Unilever embraces diversity in its workforce and is committed to creating an inclusive environment by considering all applicants fairly and providing reasonable adjustments during the application and interview process.

What is the main purpose of the Trade Mark Counsel role?

The main purpose of the role is to provide comprehensive IP advice, support risk management, and create legal solutions focused on global trade mark management and enforcement.

What tools are essential for completing the job responsibilities?

Experience with trade mark database systems and search tools, such as Corsearch and TM Now, is essential for the role.

What values does Unilever uphold as a company?

Unilever aims to make sustainable living commonplace and values diversity, inclusion, and the wellbeing of its employees.

What measures does Unilever take to combat recruitment fraud?

Unilever warns candidates about recruitment fraud and actively scans for fake job listings or fraudulent websites, providing guidance on reporting suspicious activities.

Who will the Trade Mark Counsel work closely with?

The Trade Mark Counsel will collaborate with the Head of Trade Marks/Brand Protection, regional IP colleagues, other lawyers, and functional experts across various legal areas.

Can I expect to be educated on IP issues as part of my role?

Yes, part of the role includes educating the business on IP issues and policies.

A better business. A better world. A better you.

Manufacturing & Electronics
Industry
10,001+
Employees
1872
Founded Year

Mission & Purpose

Be part of the world’s most successful, purpose-led business. Work with brands that are well-loved around the world, that improve the lives of our consumers and the communities around us. We promote innovation, big and small, to make our business win and grow; and we believe in business as a force for good. Unleash your curiosity, challenge ideas and disrupt processes; use your energy to make this happen. Our brilliant business leaders and colleagues provide mentorship and inspiration, so you can be at your best. Our portfolio ranges from nutritionally balanced foods to indulgent ice creams, affordable soaps, luxurious shampoos and everyday household care products. We produce world-leading brands including Lipton, Knorr, Dove, Axe, Hellmann’s and Omo, alongside trusted local names and innovative-forward thinking brands like Ben & Jerry’s, The Dollar Shave Club and Dermalogica. Every individual here can bring their purpose to life through their work. Join us and you’ll be surrounded by inspiring leaders and supportive peers. Among them, you’ll channel your purpose, bring fresh ideas to the table, and simply be you. As you work to make a real impact on the business and the world, we’ll work to help you become a better you.

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