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- Tasks: Draft and negotiate IP agreements, advise on corporate transactions, and manage complex client relationships.
- Company: Top-ranked international law firm with a strong IP practice.
- Benefits: Early responsibility, close partner access, and exposure to high-profile clients.
- Why this job: Join a market-leading team and make an impact in life sciences and technology sectors.
- Qualifications: Qualified solicitor with experience in non-contentious IP transactions.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for professional growth and development.
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 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 London
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend events, webinars, or even casual meet-ups. The more you engage, the better your chances of landing that dream role.
✨Show Off Your Skills
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, don’t hold back! Share specific examples of your experience in IP transactions and how you've tackled complex challenges. Let them see the value you bring!
✨Follow Up
After interviews or networking events, drop a quick thank-you email. It shows your enthusiasm and keeps you on their radar. Plus, it’s a great way to reiterate your interest in the role!
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to check out our website for the latest job openings! Applying directly through us can give you an edge, as we often have exclusive listings that might not be found elsewhere.
We think you need these skills to ace Associate, IP Transactions (Life Sciences) - Top Ranked International Law Firm (3-7 PQE) in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that align with the IP transactions role. Highlight your experience in non-contentious IP matters and any relevant life sciences or technology projects you've worked on.
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 perfect fit for this role. Don’t forget to mention your experience with licensing and collaboration agreements.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since this role involves direct client engagement, make sure to demonstrate your strong communication skills in your application. Use clear and concise language, and don’t shy away from showing your personality!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves!
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 practical experience and understanding of the complexities involved.
✨Showcase Your Commercial Acumen
Since the role requires commercially focused advice, think about how you've aligned IP strategies with broader business objectives in past roles. Prepare examples that demonstrate your ability to manage client relationships and deliver results under tight timelines.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that put you in hypothetical situations related to drafting and negotiating IP agreements. Practise articulating your thought process and decision-making skills, as this will highlight your problem-solving abilities and readiness for the role.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Remember, interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the firm's approach to IP transactions and their work culture. This not only shows your interest but also helps you assess if the firm is the right fit for you.
