IP Partner – Southampton

Our client is a highly regarded, top-tier law firm with a nationally recognised Intellectual Property practice, consistently ranked in leading legal directories for its work on complex, high-value international IP matters. The team operates as a fully integrated unit covering disputes, transactional work, trade mark and design prosecution and strategic advisory services, supporting a broad portfolio of national and international clients. With a strong collaborative culture and a sizeable network of IP professionals across multiple UK and international offices, the firm offers an established platform for senior lawyers looking to further develop a high-performing IP practice.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced IP Partner to join a growing and well-resourced team, working closely with senior leadership to further strengthen and expand the firm's IP offering. The role will involve a mix of contentious and non-contentious work across the full spectrum of IP rights, alongside practice development, client relationship management and team leadership. You will play a key role in driving strategic growth, mentoring junior lawyers and contributing to the continued success of a market-leading IP group, while also collaborating with international colleagues on cross-border matters.

Key Responsibilities

• Advising on a wide range of IP disputes across all IP rights
• Drafting and negotiating IP agreements, including licences, assignments, confidentiality agreements and R&D agreements
• Supporting and expanding the firm's UK IP practice through strategic business development
• Managing and developing strong client relationships across national and international portfolios
• Working collaboratively with international teams on cross-border IP matters
• Providing strategic IP advice to clients across multiple sectors
• Coaching, mentoring and supporting the development of junior lawyers and team members
• Contributing to innovation, process improvements and operational efficiency within the team
• Maintaining and enhancing an external profile as a recognised leader in the IP field
• Supporting revenue growth and ensuring commercial priorities are aligned with wider firm strategy

Requirements

• Qualified UK Solicitor with significant experience in Intellectual Property law
• Proven experience handling both contentious and non-contentious IP matters
• Demonstrable track record of building or contributing to a successful IP practice
• Strong commercial awareness and understanding of market trends
• Established client following or clear business development capability
• Experience mentoring and leading high-performing legal teams
• Ability to operate at Partner level within a large, full-service law firm environment
• Strong leadership, strategic thinking and stakeholder management skills

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