Head of IP

JAPFA; Singapore; On-site; SGD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading food and agribusiness company based in Singapore is seeking a Patent & IP Advisory specialist. The role includes advising on patentability and infringement risks, drafting and filing patent applications, and managing IP portfolios. Candidates should have a Master Degree in Law, admission to relevant jurisdictions, and 3-5 years of relevant experience. Strong analytical, research, and communication skills are essential. Join a dynamic team to help navigate complex IP landscapes.

Qualifications

• Min 3-5 years of drafting patents in-house, firm, or practitioner.
• Good understanding of technology, engineering, biotech, or relevant technical fields.
• Experience with IPOS procedures and international patent systems preferred.

Responsibilities

• Advise on patentability, freedom-to-operate, infringement risks, and IP strategy.
• Prepare, draft, and file patent applications in Singapore and globally.
• Handle IP infringement analysis and advise on enforcement options.

Skills

Strong analytical writing

Research skills

Communication skills

Education

Master Degree in Law (LL.B or JD)

Admission to Singapore, US, UK or equivalent

Qualification as a Registered Patent Attorney or Patent Agent

Job description

Job Descriptions :

Patent & IP Advisory

• Advise internal stakeholders on patentability, freedom-to-operate (FTO), infringement risks, and IP strategy.
• Conduct IP due diligence for mergers, acquisitions, and technology transfers.
• Draft and negotiate IP-related agreements (e.g., licensing, R&D, NDAs, technology collaboration).

Patent Drafting & Prosecution

• Prepare, draft, and file patent applications (in Singapore and internationally).
• Manage patent prosecution before the Intellectual Property Office of Singapore (IPOS) and coordinate with foreign agents for overseas filings.
• Respond to office actions and maintain patent portfolios.

IP Enforcement & Dispute Management

• Handle IP infringement analysis and advise on enforcement options.
• Assist in litigation preparation, evidence gathering, and legal submissions (if in a litigation-focused role).
• Work with external counsel where needed on complex cross-border matters (for in-house roles).

IP Portfolio Management

• Strategically manage the company’s or clients’ patent and IP portfolios.Conduct periodic IP audits and risk assessments.
• Monitor competitor patents and industry trends.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with R&D, product, engineering, and business teams to identify and protect new inventions.
• Provide training to staff on IP awareness and compliance.

Requirements :

• Master Degree in Law (LL.B or JD).
• Admission to Singapore, US, UK or equivalent.
• Qualification as a Registered Patent Attorney or Patent Agent.
• Min 3-5 years of drafting patents inhouse / firm / practitioner I.
• Good understanding of technology, engineering, biotech, or relevant technical fields (especially for patent drafting roles).
• Strong analytical writing, research, and communication skills.
• Experience with IPOS procedures and international patent systems (PCT, USPTO, EPO) preferred.