Global Lead - Trademarks and Copyrights

JOB PURPOSE:

The Global Lead Trademarks & Copyright Counsel will be responsible for overseeing and managing the global trademark and copyright portfolio of the company. This role involves strategic protection, enforcement, and licensing of intellectual property (IP) assets, ensuring compliance with international laws and industry regulations. The candidate will work closely with internal stakeholders, external counsel, and regulatory bodies to safeguard the company's brand, innovation, and creative assets

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

Trademarks Management:

• Develop and implement a global trademark strategy for the company's products, brands, and

business divisions.

• Oversee trademark prosecution, opposition, renewals, and enforcement worldwide.
• Conduct risk assessments, clearance searches, and provide strategic advice on new trademarks.
• Manage disputes, oppositions, cancellations, and litigation related to trademarks.
• Collaborate with marketing, R&D, and commercial teams to ensure proper trademark use.

Copyright Protection & Strategy:

• Advise on copyright protection for product packaging, marketing materials, software, and digital content.
• Draft and negotiate copyright-related agreements, including licensing, assignments, and cobranding arrangements
• Monitor and enforce copyright infringements globally.

Brand Protection & Anti-Counterfeiting:

• Develop and execute anti-counterfeiting programs in collaboration with global enforcement agencies.
• Work with customs authorities and regulatory bodies to prevent trademark infringement and parallel imports.
• Conduct training programs for internal stakeholders on brand protection and IP compliance.

IP Contracts & Licensing:

• Draft, review, and negotiate trademark and copyright-related agreements, including coexistence agreements, licensing, and assignments.
• Provide legal guidance on brand collaborations, sponsorships, and advertising claims.

Compliance & Risk Management:

• Ensure compliance with international trademark and copyright laws, including the Madrid System and country-specific regulations.
• Develop policies and best practices for trademark and copyright usage across business units.
• Advise on IP issues in mergers, acquisitions, and divestitures.

Litigation & Dispute Resolution:

• Lead trademark and copyright disputes, working with external counsel and internal teams.
• Manage enforcement actions, domain name disputes, and online brand protection strategies.

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Law degree (LL.B. or equivalent); LL.M. in Intellectual Property is a plus.
• 10+ years of experience in trademark and copyright law, preferably in the agrochemical, FMCG, or life sciences industry.
• Strong expertise in global trademark prosecution, enforcement, and anti-counterfeiting strategies.
• Experience handling IP litigation and working with regulatory authorities.
• Ability to draft and negotiate complex IP agreements.
• Strong stakeholder management skills and experience working in a multinational environment.
• Knowledge of digital brand protection, domain names, and emerging IP trends.
• Proven experience in managing and mentoring a team