Associate Director, IP Operations

Ionis • Carlsbad, CA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a collaborative and strategically-focused Associate Director of IP Operations to build and maintain essential IP processes, workflows, and technologies in accordance with Ionis’ IP strategic plan; oversee critical IP administrative functions; and ensure efficient and reliable operations in support of the long-term evolution of the Ionis IP department. This role is vital in supporting multiple commercial products and compounds in pre-clinical and clinical development that leverage the company’s innovative technology. The ideal candidate is a seasoned IP operations manager with progressive experience and demonstrated success in streamlining IP processes, optimizing patent portfolio management, and leading cross-functional teams to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of department operations. We will also strongly consider practicing or formerly practicing patent practitioners with deep working knowledge of USPTO process and IP management systems, looking to pivot into a role that leverages their expertise to develop and enhance department operations. The successful candidate will be comfortable engaging in strategic and tactical IP operations and administrative work at all levels with a willingness to support and cover their IP administrative colleagues’ work as needed, ensuring continuity and efficiency. This is an onsite position.

Requirements

• Education : bachelor’s degree is required, preferably in life sciences; a JD, MBA, and/or a graduate degree in life sciences is preferred
• Experience : 5+ years of experience in IP operations or a related field
• Technology Implementation : proven experience with technology implementation and integration
• Analytical Skills : strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Interpersonal Skills : exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate effectively and communicate seamlessly with colleagues at all levels across the organization
• Judgment and Problem-Solving : excellent judgment and effective problem-solving skills, with the capacity to judicially escalate issues
• Communication : professional, clear, and concise written and verbal communication skills required
• Professionalism : high level of professionalism and discretion in all interactions
• Attention to Detail : keen attention to detail and accuracy
• Deadline Management : ability to set and meet aggressive deadlines while staying organized
• Prioritization : capable of appropriately prioritizing and managing multiple complex tasks to ensure timely project completion
• Management Experience : proven experience in managing teams and fostering a collaborative work environment to achieve organizational goals

Nice To Haves

• USPTO Registration : registration to practice before the USPTO is a plus

Responsibilities

• Operationalize IP Strategy : develop and implement systems and processes that translate IP strategy into actionable operational plans, ensuring alignment with corporate and department objectives
• Technology Integration and Vendor Oversight : identify, onboard, test, implement, and manage technology solutions and vendors that support IP operations (e.g., docketing, annuities, patent and trademark search and monitoring, legal research, discovery)
• Data Management : establish and refine protocols for effective data collection, storage, and analysis for a large global IP estate, ensuring critical information is secure and appropriately accessible
• Process Improvement : continuously assess and enhance IP processes and workflows relevant to patent and trademark prosecution, IP transactions, and IP contentious matters, using industry best practices to improve efficiency and minimize risk
• Cross-Functional Collaboration : support and represent, as assigned, senior IP management on enterprise-wide functions such as budget, compliance, external publications, and stakeholder communication
• Project Management : ensure department projects, initiatives, and workflows are appropriately resourced and executed on time within budget
• Team Management : oversee the IP administrative team and related functions, providing guidance and support regardless of a direct supervisory role
• Internal and External Engagement: organize and support events and team-building activities that promote collaboration and knowledge sharing with internal and external colleagues and stakeholders
• Industry Knowledge : stay informed about industry best practices, trends, and developments to enhance operational effectiveness
• Other duties as assigned

Benefits

• Ionis offers an excellent benefits package!
• Full Benefits Link: https://www.ionis.com/careers/working-at-ionis/#:~:text=our employee spotlight-,Benefits,-Employees are rewarded

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees