The Scope
To effectively meet the challenge of protecting the world's forests, we are committed to having the world's most skilled people working with us. We are currently looking for an engaged Legal Officer in the business area of Trademark and Intellectual Property with strong expertise and a passion for FSC's mission to join our multinational team.
The energetic team of the Legal Department supports all legal and compliance aspects of the FSC Group and advises FSC's management and its specialized units in their daily operations. Your primary focus will be on intellectual property (IP) matters, particularly trademark protection enforcement and licensing affairs, by working closely with other legal team members to ensure effective support.
Main Roles & Responsibilities
You will focus on relevant trademark and other IP matters concerning the FSC Group, with a direct reporting line to the Senior Trademark Counsel under the FSC Group Head of the Legal Department. The role will entail:
- Providing legal advice on all aspects of IP law, with a special focus on trademark and copyright law, unfair competition, publicity rights law, domain name, and internet and e-commerce related matters.
- Protecting FSC's trademarks and other intellectual property rights by handling infringement and fraud cases, including drafting and negotiating cease-and-desist letters and preparing for litigation.
- Advising on legal actions and alternative dispute resolution strategies.
- Supporting the development and refinement of trademark protection strategies for the FSC Group to enhance the trademark enforcement program.
- Offering trademark support and guidance to the global FSC Network.
- Collaborating with external counsels and overseeing the quality of results.
- Working with customs authorities and law enforcement agencies worldwide to prevent fraud in the system.
- Participating in training sessions for FSC International staff and the global FSC Network related to IP affairs.
- Responding to inquiries from different internal and external stakeholders.
- Conducting research activities related to the work area.
- Engaging in cross-functional collaboration and project support, especially with Marketing & Communication, the System Integrity Unit, and the IT Department.
- Contributing to additional tasks and overarching legal cases as required.
Your profile
Education and Training:
- University degree in a relevant field of law. A Master's degree in IP / Trademarks is preferred.
- Strong intellectual property background with knowledge of IP portfolio and trademark enforcement management systems.
Working Experience, Style, and Skills:
- At least two (2) years of practical experience, preferably in-house within a globally oriented organization and/or an international law firm.
- Experience with international trademark portfolios, including trademark clearance, prosecution, investigations, and enforcement.
- Experience in licensing business and negotiating license agreements is valuable.
- Familiarity with advertising, consumer protection laws, counterfeit goods laws, and experience with customs and border control protection is very useful.
- Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to handle and prioritize multiple tasks and projects while maintaining high-quality work.
- Service-oriented and detail-oriented with a proactive work approach.
- Ability to represent FSC professionally, demonstrating exemplary personal conduct and confidence.
Languages:
- Fluency in English (spoken and written).
- Fluency in German, Spanish, French, or Chinese (spoken and written) is a significant advantage.
Digital Skills:
- Proficiency in MS Office 365 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint). Experience with Dynamics 365, MS SharePoint, MS Vision, and MS Project is helpful.
- Experience with Trademark Portfolio Database Management Platforms is very helpful.
- Knowledge of Contract Database Management platforms is an asset.
Communication Skills:
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to establish and maintain positive interpersonal relations.
Others:
- Commitment to FSC's mission and values, including cultural awareness.
- Ability to represent FSC with professionalism and authority.
The Fine Print
- Location: Bonn, Germany, FSC International headquarters.
- Working Hours: Full-time, 40 hours per week, hybrid work model.
- Contract Duration: 2-year contract with the possibility of extension to open-ended.
- Starting Date: As soon as possible.
About us
Welcome to FSC!
The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) is a globally recognized nonprofit organization leading the promotion of sustainable forestry. With over 150 million hectares of certified forests, FSC is committed to ensuring the long-term health and resilience of the world's forests.
Required Experience: Unclear seniority level.
Key Skills
Disaster Recovery, ICT, Data Management, Instrument Maintenance, Light and Heavy Bus Maintenance, AC Maintenance.
Employment Type: Full-Time
Experience: 2+ years
Vacancy: 1