IP Litigation Director - Contentious Matters & Growth

DWF; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

DWF is seeking a talented Intellectual Property Legal Director to help grow the contentious IP practice within its Commercial team. The role focuses on high-profile IP disputes for leading clients, with opportunities to shape strategy and develop client relationships across multiple sectors.

The position offers hybrid working from Birmingham, Manchester or Leeds, with a national focus and a chance to mentor junior lawyers while driving business development and market leadership in IP.

Qualifications

• Broad experience advising on contentious IP matters including trade marks, copyright, design and patents.
• Experience managing disputes with autonomy and commercial judgement.
• Strong analytical, strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent verbal and written negotiation and communication skills.
• Ability to develop and grow an IP team is beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Lead the contentious IP practice and deliver high-quality legal services.
• Advise on a wide range of IP disputes including trademark, copyright, design and patents.
• Monitor IP law developments and inform clients and colleagues.
• Run an independent caseload while collaborating with IP specialists.
• Support cross-functional work with other practice areas and business development.

Skills

IP disputes

Negotiation

Client relationships

Commercial judgement

Leadership

Job description

DWF is seeking a talented Intellectual Property Legal Director to help grow the contentious IP practice within its Commercial team. The role focuses on high-profile IP disputes for leading clients, with opportunities to shape strategy and develop client relationships across multiple sectors.

The position offers hybrid working from Birmingham, Manchester or Leeds, with a national focus and a chance to mentor junior lawyers while driving business development and market leadership in IP.