Commercial IP Associate (4-5 PQE)

About Withers 

A law firm focused on people and collaboration. For the past 125 years, Withers has supported some of the world's most remarkable people and organisations at defining moments in their lives. We are the only international law firm focused on successful individuals and private capital, working closely with founders, investors and family offices. We also advise governments, charities, global brands and start-ups of all shapes and sizes. Many of our clients are shaping the future and creating solutions to tackle many of the world's problems.  It makes for a fascinating and challenging practice. Our role is to get to know each individual client, find out where they want to be, and help them to get there – whether they are building a business, looking after their family, involved in a complex dispute or protecting their finances for the future. To meet their unique needs we are exceptionally collaborative, working together across teams and time zones. We are agile, focusing on strategy rather than rigid ideas and traditional hierarchy. Join us to be part of a team that is always looking to the future. Where initiative, big ideas and bold moves are always encouraged. Where you can truly be yourself.

The Role 

We are looking to recruit an enthusiastic mid-level Associate to join our fast growing and dynamic Intellectual Property (IP), Commercial and Technology team in the Business Division. The applicant should have a broad range of commercial, technology, data protection and IP experience with particular knowledge of SAAS and technology agreements (especially enterprise level). The role is best suited to someone who is willing to get stuck-in and enjoys helping disruptors to challenge the status quo. 

The work is very often international in scope and there will opportunities to work along with other divisions and teams in our UK and overseas offices in the US, Europe and Asia.  Given the nature of our clients, an interest in the tech sector, as well as the firm's other key sectors (including the visual and literary arts, design, sports and fashion) is a must. 

Key skills and experience

• 4-5 years post qualification experience (qualified in England & Wales)
• Excellent academics and the benefit of a broad training in a well-regarded commercial/IP team
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, technical ability and solid drafting skills
• Effective team player - able to work effectively with colleagues in a vibrant but close-knit, friendly environment
• An engaged attitude with excellent people skills and a good, clear communication style
• A willingness to take responsibility and ability to form strong working relationships across all areas of the practice in the UK and internationally
• Ability to communicate and handle client contact (both internal and external) from the outset
• Good commercial awareness and a pragmatic outlook is also important
• Familiarity with using IT e.g. Microsoft Word and PowerPoint

The Essentials

• Working hours: 9.30am – 5.30pm but flexibility is a must
• 6-month probation period
• 12 weeks' notice period
• Flexible benefits package

For further information, please contact the recruitment team.

Information for Recruitment Agencies

We endeavour to recruit and fill vacancies directly. However, when we do need to engage with agencies, we operate a preferred supplier list ('PSL') and will not be accepting unsolicited applications from non-PSL agencies for this role.

Equal Opportunities Employment Statement 

It is the policy of Withers to provide equal opportunities for all employees in relation to recruitment, training and promotion.  Decisions in these areas will be made only by reference to the requirements of the job and shall not be influenced by any consideration of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race (including colour, nationality and ethnic and national origin), religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation.