At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop contentious IP practice, advising clients on complex disputes.
- Company: Join DWF, a leading global provider of integrated legal services.
- Benefits: Flexible hybrid working, competitive salary, and a commitment to diversity.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of IP law while working on high-profile cases.
- Qualifications: Experience in contentious IP matters and strong analytical skills.
The predicted salary is between 75600 - 92400 £ per year.
DWF are seeking a talented and motivated Intellectual Property (IP) lawyer to join as a Legal Director to help us develop and grow our Contentious Intellectual Property practice within our Commercial team. The team advises a diverse portfolio of high-profile clients on complex intellectual property disputes, including global brands, major organisations including Severn Trent, leading hotel groups, and Universities. The work is particularly varied, spanning trade mark, copyright and design right disputes, domain name disputes, confidential information claims, passing off and unfair competition matters, and increasingly complex patent infringement litigation.
The team is recognised for handling market-leading work and recently achieved a significant success in the Supreme Court, acting for Dairy UK in its intellectual property dispute against Oatly. This offers lawyers the opportunity to work on high-profile, precedent-setting matters alongside recognised specialists within a highly regarded national IP practice.
Working as part of an integrated national IP practice, the Legal Director will collaborate closely with colleagues across both contentious and non-contentious IP work, building strong client relationships, mentoring junior lawyers, and supporting business development activities. This is an excellent opportunity to help shape the future growth of the practice, drive innovation, and play a key role in enhancing DWF's market-leading IP offering.
We are looking for someone to be based in our Birmingham, Manchester or Leeds office and offer a flexible, hybrid working approach.
Responsibilities
- Lead and develop the contentious side of the Intellectual Property practice, ensuring the delivery of high-quality, commercially focused legal services.
- Advise clients on a wide range of contentious intellectual property matters, including trade mark, copyright, design right and patent infringement claims, passing off, confidential information and domain name disputes.
- Monitor developments in IP law, regulation and market trends, using this insight to inform clients and internal colleagues.
- Run an independent caseload while working closely with recognised IP specialists across the wider practice.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate IP advice into broader client and business initiatives.
- Build and maintain strong client relationships, acting as a trusted adviser on contentious IP issues.
- Support business development activity and contribute to the continued growth and market profile of DWF’s IP practice.
What will help you succeed in this role?
Essential
- Demonstrable experience advising on a broad range of contentious intellectual property matters, including trade mark, copyright, design right and patent disputes.
- Strong knowledge of IP enforcement, infringement claims, passing off, confidential information and domain name disputes.
- Experience acting for clients across a variety of sectors on strategic IP protection and dispute resolution matters.
- Proven ability to manage complex IP disputes with a high degree of autonomy and commercial judgement.
- Strong analytical, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent negotiation and communication skills, both verbal and written.
- Ability to build and maintain strong client relationships and to work effectively under pressure.
- Previous experience in developing and growing an Intellectual Property team is beneficial.
Desirable
- Patent infringement litigation experience is beneficial.
- Intellectual Property certificate or accreditations would be beneficial, but not essential.
What we offer?
We are committed to ensuring that each member of our team feels valued and duly rewarded during their time at DWF. We are an equal opportunities employer that celebrates diversity, and we are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all. We aim to create a positive experience for all candidates and offer any adjustments or additional support needed. If you're excited about the opportunity but your experience doesn’t align perfectly with all the requirements, please apply anyway. You may be the right candidate for the role or others across the wider team.
About us
DWF is a leading global provider of integrated legal and business services. Our approach delivers efficiency, price certainty and transparency for our clients across the world without compromising on quality or service. Our purpose is to deliver positive outcomes with our colleagues, clients and communities and we foster a culture that places our colleagues at the centre of all that we do.
Legal Director - Contentious Intellectual Property in Manchester employer: DWF
DWF is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and inclusive work environment where talented individuals can thrive. With a strong focus on employee growth, we provide opportunities for mentorship and collaboration within our nationally recognised Intellectual Property practice, allowing you to work on high-profile cases that shape the legal landscape. Our flexible, hybrid working approach in vibrant locations like Birmingham, Manchester, and Leeds ensures a balanced work-life experience while being part of a diverse team committed to delivering excellence.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Legal Director - Contentious Intellectual Property in Manchester
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We think you need these skills to ace Legal Director - Contentious Intellectual Property in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at DWF, make sure to demonstrate your understanding of key legal principles and areas of law relevant to the position. Include any specific coursework, modules, or certifications, like LPC or BPTC qualifications, that showcase your legal expertise directly on your CV.
Showcase Your Research Skills:In the legal field, strong research skills are crucial. Use your application to illustrate how you've utilised these skills in past studies or work experiences – whether that's through past internships or significant projects. Mention any legal databases or tools you’re proficient in, as this can give you an edge.
Tailor That Cover Letter!:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make it personal by expressing your genuine interest in DWF and the specific role of Legal Director - Contentious Intellectual Property. Talk about why you want to be part of their team, how your unique experiences align with their values, and why you’re passionate about the legal sector.
Stay Formal but Friendly:While we all know the legal world can be pretty formal, don’t be afraid to let a bit of personality shine through in your written application. Use a respectful tone, but feel free to inject a little warmth; this approach can help you stand out and show you're a great fit for DWF’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at DWF
✨Know Your Legal Principles
Brush up on foundational legal principles relevant to the specific area of law you’re applying for, whether it’s corporate, criminal, or family law. We might get asked situational questions to test your knowledge, so being articulate about key concepts will make you stand out.
✨Be Ready for Case Studies
Full-time legal roles often involve case studies during interviews. Prepare to analyse a hypothetical case and discuss your approach to it. Practising this with a peer or mentor can help us refine our reasoning and articulate a solid legal argument.
✨Show Off Your Research Skills
As legal professionals, strong research skills are a must. Have examples ready of how you've effectively used legal databases or conducted thorough legal research in your past experiences. It's a great way to demonstrate your readiness for the role at DWF.
✨Exude Professionalism and Confidence
In the legal field, professionalism is key. During the interview, we should maintain good eye contact and communicate clearly to show that we’re not just knowledgeable, but also confident. This can make a positive impression on your potential colleagues at DWF.
