Legal Secretary

www.findapprenticeship.service.gov.uk - Jobboard; Cambridge; Hybrid; GBP 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A recruitment agency is looking for a skilled Senior Patent Secretary in Cambridge to provide comprehensive support to a senior partner in the Intellectual Property practice. Responsibilities include managing patent applications, client engagement, and billing. The ideal candidate has experience in patent administration and proficiency with IP management systems. This role offers a competitive salary, benefits, and a hybrid working model.

Benefits

Competitive salary and benefits package

Free parking

Hybrid working model (2 days office / 3 days remote)

Supportive and collaborative team environment

Ongoing professional development opportunities

Qualifications

• Experience as a patent secretary, preferably in a UK or European IP firm.
• In-depth knowledge of the patent application process, including EPO, WIPO, and UKIPO procedures.
• Proficiency in IP management systems and Microsoft Office suite.

Responsibilities

• Preparing, filing, and monitoring UK, EP, PCT, and international patent applications.
• Serving as a primary liaison between clients and the partner for queries, updates, and case progress.
• Drafting, processing, and managing invoices by client-specific billing arrangements.

Skills

Patent administration

Organisational skills

Client engagement

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Education

CIPA or CITMA qualification (or working toward)

Tools

IP management systems

Microsoft Office suite

Job description

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a skilled and experienced Senior Patent Secretary to join our client's Cambridge team. As the Patent Secretary, you will provide proactive and comprehensive support to a senior partner within their Intellectual Property practice. This is a critical role for a motivated professional with a strong background in patent administration, exceptional organisational skills, and a client-focused approach.

Our clients are offering:

• Competitive salary and benefits package
• Free parking
• Hybrid working model (2 days office / 3 days remote)
• Supportive and collaborative team environment
• Ongoing professional development opportunities

As the Patent Secretary, your responsibilities will include:

• Preparing, filing, and monitoring UK, EP, PCT, and international patent applications
• Coordinating with patent offices and external agents regarding filings and formalities
• Maintaining and updating IP management systems (e.g., Inprotech, Equinox, or similar)
• Managing deadlines, renewal reminders, and docketing in collaboration with formalities teams

Client Engagement & Support

• Serving as a primary liaison between clients and the partner for queries, updates, and case progress
• Preparing professional correspondence, client reports, and status updates
• Scheduling and coordinating meetings, client calls, and travel arrangements

Billing & Invoicing

• Drafting, processing, and managing invoices by client-specific billing arrangements
• Tracking and following up on outstanding invoices and client payments
• Assisting in preparing fee estimates and engagement documentation

Document Management & Compliance

• Formatting and proofreading legal documents and correspondence
• Maintaining accurate electronic and physical filing systems
• Ensuring adherence to GDPR, IPREG, and SRA regulations

Qualifications and experience required:

• Experience as a patent secretary, preferably in a UK or European IP firm
• In-depth knowledge of the patent application process, including EPO, WIPO, and UKIPO procedures
• Experience supporting a senior fee earner or partner-level professional
• Proficiency in IP management systems and Microsoft Office suite
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with a client-first mindset
• Highly organised with excellent attention to detail and time management skills

Desirable qualifications:

• CIPA or CITMA qualification (or working toward)
• Experience working in a hybrid/remote-first team environment

If this opportunity sounds like the challenge you are looking for, please contact us at 01638 661333 or email your CV to [e-mail].

By applying, you agree to your CV being stored on our database, used solely for recruitment purposes, and shared with clients only after discussion. You can request data deletion or correction at any time.

We look forward to hearing from you. We will review applications over the next 2 to 3 weeks. If selected, we will contact you; otherwise, your details will be kept on file for future opportunities. Please follow us on Facebook for updates.

Exact Sourcing is an equal-opportunity employment agency.