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- Tasks: Draft and negotiate bespoke IP agreements while advising on corporate transactions.
- Company: Top-ranked international law firm with a stellar reputation in intellectual property.
- Benefits: Early responsibility, close partner access, and exposure to high-profile clients.
- Why this job: Join a market-leading practice and make an impact in innovation-driven sectors.
- Qualifications: Qualified solicitor with experience in non-contentious IP transactions.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for career growth and international exposure.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Our client is an international law firm with a highly regarded intellectual property practice, recognised across leading UK and global legal directories for its transactional capability. The team advises on complex, high-value IP matters and is known for its strength in non-contentious work, particularly where intellectual property intersects with corporate transactions, strategic collaborations and commercial arrangements.
The wider IP group operates across advisory, transactional and disputes mandates, allowing associates to work within a fully integrated practice while focusing on sophisticated deal-driven instructions. The team regularly supports clients on cross-border matters, coordinating advice across multiple jurisdictions and legal systems.
This opportunity is suited to an associate with strong experience in IP-led transactions who is looking to deepen their exposure to complex licensing, collaboration and strategic commercial arrangements. The role involves hands-on drafting and negotiation responsibility, close partner interaction and direct engagement with clients operating in innovation-driven sectors.
The practice has particular depth in life sciences and technology-focused mandates, though the work spans a broad range of industries where IP value is central to commercial strategy.
Key Responsibilities- Drafting and negotiating bespoke intellectual property agreements, including licensing, development, collaboration and partnering arrangements
- Advising on IP considerations arising in mergers, acquisitions, investments and other corporate transactions
- Supporting clients on the intellectual property elements of supply, manufacturing, distribution and commercial contracts
- Managing complex instructions with multiple stakeholders and tight timelines
- Delivering commercially focused advice aligned with clients’ broader business objectives
- Building trusted working relationships with clients and colleagues across practice areas
- Taking responsibility for matter management, including supervision of junior team members
A significant proportion of the work sits within life sciences, healthcare, technology and brand-driven industries. Associates will regularly advise businesses operating in regulated, research-led and innovation-heavy environments, often on matters with international reach.
Candidate Profile- England & Wales qualified solicitor with meaningful experience in non-contentious IP transactions
- Background gained within a recognised IP or commercial practice
- Strong familiarity with licensing, collaboration and R&D-related agreements
- Experience advising on IP aspects of corporate or investment transactions
- Commercially astute with the ability to manage matters independently
- Comfortable taking ownership of client relationships and project delivery
This role offers exposure to a market-leading IP transactions practice with a strong international outlook and a high-quality client base. Associates benefit from early responsibility, close partner access and the opportunity to develop a profile within sectors where intellectual property is a core value driver.
Associate, IP Transactions (Life Sciences) - Top Ranked International Law Firm (3-7 PQE) in City of London employer: Rutherford
Contact Detail:
Rutherford Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate, IP Transactions (Life Sciences) - Top Ranked International Law Firm (3-7 PQE) in City of London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend events, join relevant groups on LinkedIn, and don’t be shy about reaching out to professionals for a chat. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the firm and its recent work. Understand their approach to IP transactions, especially in life sciences and technology. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in what they do.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! Since the role involves drafting and negotiating agreements, being able to demonstrate your ability to handle these discussions confidently can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities that might just be the perfect fit for you. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people.
We think you need these skills to ace Associate, IP Transactions (Life Sciences) - Top Ranked International Law Firm (3-7 PQE) in City of London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that align with the role. Highlight your experience in IP transactions, especially in life sciences and technology, to show us you’re the right fit.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about IP law and how your background makes you a great candidate for this role. Don’t forget to mention any relevant projects or achievements!
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since the role involves client interaction and negotiation, make sure your application demonstrates your strong communication skills. Use clear and concise language, and don’t shy away from showing your personality!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates regarding your application status.
How to prepare for a job interview at Rutherford
✨Know Your IP Transactions Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of intellectual property transactions, especially in life sciences and technology. Be prepared to discuss specific cases or agreements you've worked on, as this will show your depth of experience and understanding of the complexities involved.
✨Showcase Your Drafting Skills
Since the role involves drafting bespoke agreements, be ready to talk about your drafting process. Bring examples of agreements you've drafted or negotiated, and explain how you tailored them to meet client needs. This will demonstrate your practical skills and attention to detail.
✨Understand the Business Context
It's crucial to align your legal advice with clients' broader business objectives. Research the firm’s key clients and their industries, and think about how IP value plays a role in their commercial strategies. This will help you articulate how you can contribute to their success.
✨Build Rapport with Interviewers
During the interview, focus on building a connection with your interviewers. Ask insightful questions about their work and the team dynamics. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the firm’s culture aligns with your values and working style.
