Counsel, Intellectual Property - Trademark

The North Face

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. The Counsel, Intellectual Property - Trademarks, 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 this role includes managing VF’s trademark portfolios, advising on trademark and trade dress matters, building relationships with brand teams, and providing IP legal support for corporate projects. The role also involves preparing cease and desist letters, negotiating settlements, and developing training for product and marketing teams on IP principles.

Requirements

• 5+ years as an attorney at reputable law firms or in-house.
• Juris Doctor from an ABA-accredited law school.
• Experience with brand protection/enforcement and managing trademark portfolios.
• 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.
• Willingness to travel by air and overnight, up to 20% of the time.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with trademark prosecution, search and clearance.
• Ability to balance legal risks with business realities.
• Understanding of technical aspects of VF's products.

Responsibilities

• Manage VF’s trademark portfolios, including preparation, prosecution, counseling, clearance, due diligence, and enforcement.
• Serve as lead intellectual property legal partner to VF emerging brands and core brands.
• Build strong partnerships with brand teams and Legal Department colleagues.
• Review and analyze trademark searches to determine availability and make strategic decisions.
• Prepare cease and desist letters and negotiate settlements of trademark disputes.
• Provide IP legal support for corporate restructuring projects and mergers & acquisitions.
• Evaluate, protect, and prosecute new product design innovations.
• Develop and deliver training for product and marketing teams on IP principles.
• Review and authorize third-party invoices to ensure adherence to budget.
• Participate in special projects related to IP management and technology solutions.

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