Assistant General Counsel VP, Intellectual Property (Manufacturing)

TL;DR

Assistant General Counsel VP, Intellectual Property (Manufacturing): Leading the global development, protection, and enforcement of intellectual property assets for a global adhesives company with an accent on patent strategy, trade secret security, and IP litigation. Focus on aligning IP governance with business objectives, managing global IP portfolios, and overseeing M&A due diligence.

Location: Hybrid in St. Paul, Minnesota, USA

Salary: $265,000 - $295,000

Company

The largest pureplay adhesives company in the world, producing innovative functional coatings, adhesives, and sealants used across 30 market segments in over 140 countries.

What you will do

• Define and implement a global IP strategy aligned with business objectives and oversee IP creation and protection standards.
• Lead and develop an in-house IP team of experts, including attorneys, patent agents, and paralegals.
• Draft and negotiate complex licensing and joint development agreements.
• Oversee global IP disputes, oppositions, and enforcement strategies to protect company assets.
• Manage IP due diligence and integration strategies for M&A activities.
• Provide strategic legal counsel and reports to senior leadership and the Board of Directors.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) with USPTO registration (U.S.) or licensed Patent Attorney qualified for EPO practice (Germany/Portugal).
• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering.
• Minimum 14+ years of progressive experience in intellectual property law, including significant in-house experience.
• Active bar membership in good standing.
• Fluent in English.

Culture & Benefits

• Competitive total rewards package including incentive and recognition programs.
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits.
• 401K contributions.
• Paid time off and paid holidays.
• Collaborative culture where employees are seen, heard, and respected.