IP Operations Manager

Please Note: The deadline for applying is 23.59 the day before the job posting end date. Job Title: IP Operations Manager Location: Colworth or Port Sunlight Work-Level: WL2B JOB PURPOSE The IP Group is an expertise team within Unilever legal function. The patents team is part of the IP Group and is spread across 7 sites on 4 continents. Much of the patent team work involves creation and filing of legal documents (patents, designs, agreements, opinions etc) as well as interacting with patent offices in all countries of the world to ensure our rights our granted, maintained and enforced. A core part of the patent team is the global Support Group which, in addition to management support common to other areas of legal, also handles the massive amount of formalities associated with patent work. We have developed and implemented world-class cloud-based systems for docket and document management which has allowed us to achieve great efficiency and to share the more routine tasks between Support Group members at multiple locations. The present role is one of two IP Operations Managers whose task is to lead and manage the Support Group and the ongoing transformation of our support systems. This role is located with a highly skilled core of Global Patent Coordinators in the UK at either our Port Sunlight R&D site (preferred) or our Colworth R&D site. This is an exciting opportunity to join Unilever at a pivotal moment for the company. The role will suit someone who enjoys managing people, is highly collaborative and is comfortable with change. RESPONSIBILITIES Together with the other IP Operations Manager, you will be responsible for: Ensuring that all formalities are handled in a way to secure Unilever rights: Robust processes and systems are required to ensure that all due care is taken in meeting the deadlines of the various patent offices regarding filing, prosecution and maintenance of Unilever patent and design portfolio. All systems and processes must reflect the latest changes in law in all countries. Structural problems should be identified, analysed and solved on an ongoing basis including improvements to the way of working (if applicable). Building and leading a world class Support Group: Recruit, train and manage support staff in the UK as well as some of the support staff in other geographies to ensure complete support to the attorneys. Utilize the resource across the geographies in an agile and efficient way. Leading and participating in transformation projects: Developing new tools and processes to increase efficiencies. Constantly reviewing our systems and processes and benchmarking with new external developments to ensure that we get the most from networked e-tools. Facilitating integration and compliance of IP systems and procedures with Unilever systems and policies: Liaising with Finance, Facilities, SHE, IT and other departments. Development & control of financial procedures including supervision of financial reporting, budgeting, spending control and assessment of site costs. Ensuring SOX compliance. Implementation and guiding of audit recommendations. Monitoring and reporting KPIs: Providing key information and reports that allow the IP Group and other leadership teams to monitor key performance indicators including budget and patent metrics. Maintaining a quality and cost-effective network of foreign agents: Assisting in selection of Farm Out firms and regular monitoring of performance and benchmarking of costs. Engaging externally: Keep abreast with law and practise developments through participation in professional associations and assist in lobbying/influencing by such bodies. Ensuring effective management of formalities for M&A transactions: Provide the necessary information and support to the M&A team regarding patent and design portfolios whilst maintaining the necessary strict confidentiality. ALL ABOUT YOU The successful candidate will have: Essential University level qualification in Applied Sciences/Business Administration or similar. Advanced patent administration certificate or equivalent. Relevant experience of working in a patent department with experience covering all aspects of formalities work including M&A. Familiarity with IT tools both general (e.g. MS Office) and specialized (e.g. patent docketing systems). Experience of project leadership and/or involvement in development of new systems and tools. Strong problem-solving skills and analytical ability to handle highly complex global formalities systems. Ability to work with colleagues across multiple time zones and countries and at all levels. Excellent written and verbal English communication skills. Strong organisational and prioritisation skills to cope with multiple stakeholders, competing deadlines and priorities. Ability to delegate and hold persons accountable. Preferable Experience of management of large teams, including remote teams. Experience of working in a multi-national and/or consumer goods company. Knowledge of trade mark formalities. NOTES Please apply via this portal as e-mail applications may not be processed and include your Future Fit Plan if possible. By applying for this vacancy, you are confirming that you have made your Line Manager aware of your application and that you are at a point in your career with Unilever where it is appropriate for you to be applying for other positions.   Should you require additional information or reasonable adjustments to allow you to present your best self during this process, please contact your Talent Partner Chris Carr on chris.carr@unilever.com  What we offer Whilst the role is advertised on a full-time basis, we would be happy to discuss possible flexible working options and what this may look like for you. We strive to achieve a family-friendly and inclusive workplace and to, above all, create possibilities for all. Diversity at Unilever is about inclusion, embracing differences, creating possibilities and growing together for better business performance. We embrace diversity in our workforce. This means giving full and fair consideration to all applicants and continuing development of all employees regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, marriage and civil partnership, and pregnancy and maternity. We are also more than happy to provide reasonable adjustments during our application and interview process to enable you to be present your best self. To find out more, including about our Employee Resource Groups, please click here Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (unilever.com). Relocation to the UK Please be aware if you are applying for this role from outside the UK, if successful, your application will be treated as a self-initiated Change Location Outside of Country (CLOC) transfer. This means any relocation costs must be self-funded with the potential to reclaim some specific pre-approved expenses up to £5,000. Please speak to your Talent Partner if you have any questions. We are one of the world largest consumer goods companies with amazing brands, dynamic people and a sustainable vision. We meet everyday needs for nutrition, hygiene and personal care with brands that help people feel good, look good and get more out of life. If you are ambitious, keen to learn and want lo lead, you have come to the right place. Explore our website and apply to be part of a company with more than 400 brands used by over two billion people everyday.