Trademark Operations Leader - Process & AI Innovation

We are Buchanan; San Francisco (CA); Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Buchanan, a premier global law firm, seeks a Trademark Operations Manager to lead the administrative and operational functions of its Trademark practice. This role offers hybrid work across multiple U.S.

offices and a chance to shape workflow and staffing at a high level. You will oversee a team of paralegals and assistants, drive efficiency, and implement innovative tools and AI-enabled processes to support lawyers and clients.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required.
• 6+ years of experience in U.S. and foreign trademark prosecution operations.
• 3-4+ years in leadership/management capacity.
• Strong knowledge of trademark prosecution, docketing, and practice management systems.
• Proven experience leading, coaching, and developing professional teams.
• Proactive, process-minded leader who enjoys improving how teams work.
• Curiosity around AI, technology, and new ways to make legal operations more efficient.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop a team of Trademark Paralegals, Practice Assistants, and a Transfer Specialist, with responsibility for workflow, performance, productivity, and professional development.
• Oversee trademark operations and workflows, ensuring matters are handled accurately, efficiently, and consistently.
• Identify opportunities to improve processes, redistribute resources, and implement new tools and ways of working.
• Partner closely with attorneys and practice leadership on staffing, capacity planning, business needs, and operational strategy.
• Maintain and evolve procedures, training materials, and resources for the Trademark team.
• Stay current on USPTO practices and procedural developments and translate changes into practical updates, training, and process improvements.
• Help drive change and innovation across the practice, including the thoughtful use of AI and emerging technology.
• Travel quarterly to U.S. offices to connect with Trademark team members.

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

Trademark docketing systems

Job description

Buchanan, a premier global law firm, seeks a Trademark Operations Manager to lead the administrative and operational functions of its Trademark practice. This role offers hybrid work across multiple U.S.

offices and a chance to shape workflow and staffing at a high level. You will oversee a team of paralegals and assistants, drive efficiency, and implement innovative tools and AI-enabled processes to support lawyers and clients.