Chief IP Counsel, Biotechnology – New York, NY

Role Overview for Chief IP Counsel, Biotechnology – New York, NY

JRG Partners is proud to partner with a pioneering, clinical-stage biotechnology company at the forefront of developing life-changing therapeutics. Based in the vibrant heart of New York, NY, our client is driven by a mission to translate groundbreaking scientific discoveries into novel treatments for patients with unmet medical needs. We are seeking a visionary and strategic Chief Intellectual Property (IP) Counsel to join their executive leadership team. This is a paramount role responsible for shaping and executing a comprehensive global IP strategy that will safeguard the company’s innovation and secure its long-term competitive advantage in the marketplace.

The successful candidate will be more than just a patent attorney; they will be a strategic business partner, a forward-thinking leader, and the principal guardian of the company’s most valuable assets—its intellectual property. You will provide critical counsel to the CEO, Board of Directors, and the R&D leadership on all matters related to IP, from early-stage discovery and patent filing to late-stage clinical development and commercialization. This position offers a unique opportunity to build and lead an IP function within a dynamic, high-growth environment, directly influencing the company’s trajectory and success. You will be responsible for the entire IP lifecycle, including portfolio development, patent prosecution, freedom-to-operate (FTO) analyses, litigation management, and IP-related transactional support for licensing and collaborations. We are looking for a leader with deep scientific acumen, exceptional legal expertise, and a proven track record of success in the biotechnology industry.

Key Responsibilities of Chief IP Counsel, Biotechnology – New York, NY

The Chief IP Counsel will have a broad and impactful remit, overseeing all aspects of the company’s intellectual property. Key responsibilities include:

Strategic IP Leadership & Portfolio Management

Develop, implement, and continuously refine a forward-looking global intellectual property strategy that aligns with the company’s scientific direction, clinical development plans, and overall business objectives.

Provide strategic IP counsel to the executive team and Board of Directors on complex issues, including patentability, freedom-to-operate, competitive intelligence, and lifecycle management.

Directly manage the company’s worldwide patent portfolio, including overseeing patent preparation, filing, and prosecution to secure robust and defensible patent protection for inventions.

Lead patent portfolio reviews and annuity decisions to ensure cost-effective management and strategic alignment of IP assets.

Collaborate closely with R&D teams to identify new inventions, conduct prior art searches, and ensure timely protection of innovations. Foster a culture of IP awareness and innovation throughout the organization.

Manage and direct outside patent counsel in the US and abroad to ensure high-quality work product, strategic alignment, and budget adherence.

Risk Mitigation, Enforcement, and Litigation

Conduct and analyze comprehensive freedom-to-operate (FTO), patentability, and validity searches and render legal opinions to guide R&D and business development activities.

Proactively identify and assess third-party patent risks and develop and implement effective mitigation strategies, including design-arounds, licensing, or invalidity challenges.

Oversee and manage all IP-related disputes, including patent litigation, oppositions, interferences, and other contested proceedings before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) and international patent offices.

Lead IP enforcement efforts against infringers to protect the company’s market position and proprietary technology.

Monitor the competitive IP landscape to inform strategic decisions and identify potential opportunities or threats.

Transactional Support & Corporate IP Counsel

Lead IP due diligence for a wide range of corporate transactions, including mergers and acquisitions (M&A), in-licensing, out-licensing, research collaborations, and strategic partnerships.

Draft, review, and negotiate IP-related provisions in various agreements, such as licensing agreements, collaboration agreements, clinical trial agreements, and material transfer agreements (MTAs).

Provide legal advice on matters relating to trademarks, copyrights, trade secrets, and domain names to ensure comprehensive protection of all company intellectual assets.

Develop and implement internal policies and procedures for trade secret protection and confidential information management.

Requirements for the Chief IP Counsel, Biotechnology – New York, NY

The ideal candidate will possess a unique blend of deep scientific knowledge, extensive legal experience, and strong business acumen. We are seeking a highly motivated professional with the following qualifications:

Educational & Professional Credentials

Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an ABA-accredited law school.

Admission to at least one U.S. state bar (New York preferred) and in good standing.

Registration to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is mandatory.

An advanced degree (Ph.D. preferred) in a relevant life sciences discipline, such as Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics, or a related field.

Experience & Expertise

A minimum of 15 years of experience practicing patent law, with a significant focus on the biotechnology or pharmaceutical industry.

A combination of experience from a top-tier law firm and a corporate in-house legal department is strongly preferred.

Demonstrated experience in building and leading an IP function and managing a team of legal professionals and support staff.

Extensive, hands-on experience in global patent preparation and prosecution, particularly related to biologics, cell and gene therapies, monoclonal antibodies, or other complex biotechnologies.

Proven track record in managing complex IP litigation, including Hatch-Waxman and/or BPCIA litigation.

Substantial experience leading IP due diligence and negotiating IP terms in complex corporate transactions.

Deep understanding of global patent law, regulations, and procedures, particularly in key markets such as the U.S., Europe, and Japan.

Skills & Attributes

Exceptional strategic thinking and problem-solving skills, with the ability to translate complex legal and scientific concepts into clear business-oriented advice.

Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively communicate with scientists, business leaders, and external partners.

Strong leadership and management skills with a collaborative and team-oriented approach.

Excellent business judgment and the ability to balance legal risk with business objectives.

High level of integrity, professionalism, and ethical standards.

Benefits & Perks Offered

Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top talent by offering a highly competitive compensation and benefits package, including:

Competitive Compensation

A generous base salary, annual performance-based bonus, and a significant long-term equity package (stock options/RSUs).

Comprehensive Health & Wellness

Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your dependents, along with a robust wellness program and mental health support.

Retirement Savings

A 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company match to help you plan for your future.

Generous Time Off

A flexible and generous paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick leave, and company-paid holidays.

Professional Development

Ample opportunities for professional growth, including support for continuing legal education (CLE), conferences, and seminars.

Relocation Assistance

A comprehensive relocation package is available for the ideal candidate.

Inspiring Work Environment

The opportunity to work alongside a passionate and brilliant team dedicated to making a tangible impact on patients’ lives.

How to Apply

This is a retained search being conducted exclusively by JRG Partners. If you are a highly qualified and ambitious IP leader ready to make a significant impact in the biotechnology industry, we encourage you to apply.

To be considered for this confidential opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence. For more information or to discuss your suitability for this or other senior-level roles, please connect with JRG Partners’ Intellectual Property Recruiters . We look forward to hearing from you.