Contentious IP Director - Lead High-Impact Disputes (Hybrid)

DWF; West Midlands; Hybrid; GBP 110,000 - 170,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid working

Job summary

DWF is seeking a talented Intellectual Property solicitor to join as Legal Director within our Commercial team, to grow the Contentious IP practice. The role covers advisory work on trademark, copyright, design and patent disputes for high‑profile clients.

Based in Birmingham, Manchester or Leeds with a flexible hybrid working approach, you will lead a national IP practice, drive business development and help shape the future growth of DWF’s leading IP offering.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience advising on a broad range of contentious IP matters.
• Strong knowledge of IP enforcement, infringement claims and disputes.
• Experience leading IP disputes with autonomy and commercial judgement.
• Excellent negotiation and communication skills, verbal and written.
• Ability to build client relationships and work under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the contentious IP side of the practice, delivering high‑quality legal services.
• Advise on trademark, copyright, design right and patent disputes and related matters.
• Monitor IP law developments to inform clients and colleagues.
• Run an independent caseload while collaborating with specialists across the practice.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to integrate IP advice into client initiatives.
• Build strong client relationships and act as a trusted IP adviser.
• Support business development and contribute to growth of DWF’s IP offering.

Skills

IP disputes experience

Client relationships

Autonomy

Negotiation skills

Strategic thinking

Communication skills

Team development

Business development

Job description

DWF is seeking a talented Intellectual Property solicitor to join as Legal Director within our Commercial team, to grow the Contentious IP practice. The role covers advisory work on trademark, copyright, design and patent disputes for high‑profile clients.

Based in Birmingham, Manchester or Leeds with a flexible hybrid working approach, you will lead a national IP practice, drive business development and help shape the future growth of DWF’s leading IP offering.