Remote In-House Counsel - Intellectual Property

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work

Premium medical coverage

Retirement savings

Generous paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced In-House Counsel specializing in Intellectual Property to lead our global IP strategy from a remote location across South Africa. You will safeguard patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets while guiding risk management and strategic use of IP assets.

The role requires 6+ years in IP law, admitted attorney status in SA, and expertise in licensing, due diligence, and disputes.

Qualifications

• Admitted Attorney of the High Court of South Africa.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in intellectual property law, including prosecution and litigation.
• Experience drafting and negotiating complex IP agreements.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the company’s global IP strategy.
• Manage patent, trademark, and copyright filings and registrations.
• Conduct IP due diligence for mergers, acquisitions and partnerships.
• Draft, review, and negotiate IP licenses, joint development agreements, and NDAs.
• Advise business teams on clearance, freedom-to-operate, and infringement risks.
• Manage IP disputes, including litigation and opposition proceedings.
• Protect trade secrets and confidential information; train internal teams on IP awareness.
• Stay updated on global IP law trends and developments.
• Collaborate with R&D, marketing, and business development to align IP with business goals.

Skills

IP strategy

Contract negotiation

Litigation knowledge

Legal analysis

Education

Admitted Attorney, High Court of South Africa

Tools

IP management software

Virtual collaboration tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a fast-growing global technology innovator, is seeking a highly skilled Remote In-House Counsel specializing in Intellectual Property (IP) to join their dynamic legal department. This is a fully remote position, open to candidates across South Africa, offering unparalleled flexibility. You will be instrumental in managing, protecting, and leveraging the company's extensive IP portfolio, including patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets. The role involves advising on IP strategy, negotiating IP-related agreements, and handling IP disputes. As a remote-first role, you will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams using advanced digital communication tools. This is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced IP lawyer who thrives in an innovative environment and values the autonomy and efficiency of remote work. You will play a key strategic role in safeguarding and enhancing the company's competitive edge through robust IP management. The focus will be on proactive IP protection and strategic IP utilization to support business objectives.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the company's global intellectual property strategy.
• Manage the patent, trademark, and copyright application and registration processes.
• Conduct IP due diligence for mergers, acquisitions, and strategic partnerships.
• Draft, review, and negotiate IP-related agreements, including licenses, joint development agreements, and NDAs.
• Advise business teams on IP clearance, freedom-to-operate, and infringement risks.
• Manage and resolve IP disputes, including litigation and opposition proceedings.
• Oversee the protection of trade secrets and confidential information.
• Conduct IP training for internal teams to raise awareness and ensure compliance.
• Stay abreast of global IP law developments and trends.
• Work collaboratively with R&D, marketing, and business development teams to align IP strategy with business goals.

Requirements

• Admitted Attorney of the High Court of South Africa.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience specializing in intellectual property law, with a strong understanding of patent and trademark prosecution and litigation.
• Proven experience in drafting and negotiating complex IP agreements.
• In-depth knowledge of patent, trademark, copyright, and trade secret law.
• Experience working with technology companies is highly desirable.
• Excellent analytical, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to explain complex legal concepts clearly.
• Proficiency in IP management software and virtual collaboration tools.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and thrive in a remote setting.

Benefits

• This fully remote position offers a highly competitive compensation package, including a generous salary and potential for performance-based bonuses.
• The significant benefit of working remotely allows for exceptional work-life balance and eliminates commuting.
• Our client provides a comprehensive benefits program, including premium medical coverage, retirement savings plans, and substantial paid time off.
• You will be part of a forward-thinking, global organization with ample opportunities for professional growth and impact.
• Access to cutting-edge technology and support resources will be provided to ensure your success in this remote role.
• Contribute to innovation and IP strategy from wherever you are.