Counsel, Intellectual Property - Innovation

Timberland

94d • $159,840 - $199,800

About The Position

At VF, we strive to foster a culture of belonging based on respect, connection, openness, and authenticity. As a purpose-led, performance-driven company, we are committed to inclusion, diversity, equity, and action. The Counsel, Intellectual Property – Innovation, will be part of a team of attorneys and paralegals and partner closely with the senior members and legal leaders of the team, VF brand business teams and Legal Department colleagues to provide strategic oversight for, and execution and enforcement of, the intellectual property of several brands in VF’s portfolio. A day in the life of a Counsel, Intellectual Property - Innovation at VF includes serving as the lead intellectual property legal partner to all VF brands on all things innovation, advising the business, managing IP portfolios, building relationships with brand teams, and providing corporate support for restructuring projects and mergers & acquisitions.

Requirements

• 5+ years as an attorney at reputable law firms or in-house.
• Juris Doctor from an ABA-accredited law school.
• Experience with global patent portfolios, brand protection/enforcement, and patent preparation.
• Admitted to practice law and in good standing in at least one state/jurisdiction.
• Strong leadership skills and ability to influence and advise at all levels.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Self-starter, able to work independently and as part of a team.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in conducting freedom to operate and infringement assessments.
• Ability to balance legal risks with business realities.
• Willingness to travel by air and overnight, up to 20% of the time.

Responsibilities

• Serve as lead intellectual property legal partner to all VF brands on all things innovation.
• Advise the business and work with a team of attorneys, paralegals and brand protection specialists to deliver comprehensive IP support.
• Manage VF’s innovation development and enforcement strategy, including prosecution, counseling, clearance, due diligence, and enforcement.
• Build strong partnerships with brand teams and Legal Department colleagues.
• Review and analyze patent disclosures to determine viability.
• Prepare cease and desist letters and negotiate settlements of disputes.
• Provide IP legal support for corporate restructuring projects, international tax initiatives, and mergers & acquisitions.
• Evaluate, protect, and prosecute new utility and design product innovations.
• Develop and deliver training for product and marketing teams on IP principles.
• Review and authorize third-party invoices.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) plan with company match.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Employee discounts on products.
• Incentive potential including annual incentive plan.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees