Strategic Leader

We are seeking a seasoned leader to spearhead our Search and Licensing business unit.

The successful candidate will drive the vertical's strategic direction, oversee technical operations, and foster business growth.

This role is responsible for the overall performance, profitability, and expansion of the search and licensing services.

The function entails managing a team of professionals, ensuring service excellence, and aligning offerings with market needs.

1. Develop and execute the strategic roadmap for the Search and Licensing business unit.
2. Align the vertical's offerings with market demands and evolving IP trends.
3. Establish annual goals, budget forecasts, and investment plans for the BU.

1. Own the P&L of the vertical; ensure revenue targets are met or exceeded.
2. Formulate pricing strategies, resource allocation, and service optimization plans to maximize profitability.
3. Monitor project pipelines, billing, and receivables in coordination with the Finance Team.

1. Supervise end-to-end execution of all IP Search and Analytics services, including:
2. Patentability/ Novelty Searches
3. Freedom To Operate (FTO) Searches
4. Invalidity/ Validity Searches
5. Patent Landscaping/ Technology Scouting
6. Implement rigorous quality control protocols and ensure delivery timelines are met.

1. Lead the design and execution of IP Monetization strategies.
2. Support clients in identifying licensing opportunities, negotiating deals, and executing transactions.
3. Build a strong partner/ licensee ecosystem across industries.

1. Serve as strategic advisor to clients, offering insight-driven IP solutions.
2. Ensure a high level of client satisfaction and retention through proactive communication and consistent service quality.

1. Manage a team of analysts, senior searchers, and licensing professionals.
2. Foster a culture of high performance, continuous learning, and accountability.
3. Monitor performance and conduct regular feedback and appraisal sessions.

1. Plan and forecast manpower needs in alignment with project pipelines and growth targets.
2. Collaborate with HR to attract, interview, and onboard high-calibre talent.
3. Develop internal capability by identifying skill gaps and create upskilling plans.

1. Mentor and groom high-potential team members into future leadership roles.
2. Conduct regular training sessions on search techniques, licensing frameworks, and communication.

1. Create and maintain SOPs, templates, and checklists to standardize quality and efficiency.
2. Evaluate and adopt cutting-edge patent databases and AI/ analytics tools for better output.

1. Support business development efforts in pitching Search and Licensing services to new and existing clients and participating in client meetings, RFP responses, and solutioning.
2. Represent the firm at industry forums, IP events, and in publications to build thought leadership.

A Bachelor's or Master's degree in engineering or technology.

Postgraduate qualification in Intellectual Property is preferred.

10-15 years of experience in IP services, with at least 3-5 years in a leadership role.

A proven track record in managing patent search, analytics, and/or licensing projects.

Global client experience across domains such as Engineering, ICT, Pharma, Life Sciences, etc.

Dynamic, client-driven, and innovation-focused.

Collaboration across IP attorneys, analysts, BD, and tech teams.

An on-site hybrid arrangement (4-day WFO & 1-day WFH).

This role offers a pathway to higher strategic roles, with exposure to international clients, business growth, and high-value IP transactions.

We provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, colour, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by law.