Director IP Litigation

Merck • Rahway, NJ

1d • $210,400 - $331,100 • Hybrid

About The Position

We are seeking an experienced and strategic intellectual property litigation attorney to join the legal team responsible for global enforcement and freedom-to-operate litigation matters. The role is part of a talented and proactive litigation group and reports to the Vice President of Global Intellectual Property Litigation.

The successful candidate will set strategy, manage litigation and other high-risk IP matters, and advise senior leadership and the business. The position is based in the Company’s Rahway, New Jersey office, with flexibility for some remote work in a hybrid arrangement. Travel requirements are 10%.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant scientific discipline from an accredited institution.
• Graduate of an accredited law school.
• At least five years of legal experience in a law firm and/or pharmaceutical corporate setting, including some pharmaceutical intellectual property litigation experience.
• Member in good standing of the Bar of at least one state or the District of Columbia.
• Ability to analyze complex legal, business, and scientific issues; excellent writing and communication skills; initiative; and demonstrated ability to manage outside counsel effectively and within applicable budgets.
• Ability to manage a significant workload and competing priorities in a fast-paced, challenging environment, including domestic and international travel as needed.
• Willingness and ability to quickly become proficient in new areas of legal practice.
• Demonstrated ability to evaluate risks and exercise excellent legal judgment.
• Team-oriented and solution-oriented approach to legal issues.

Nice To Haves

• Advanced degree in biological or chemical sciences.
• Registered to practice before the USPTO.

Responsibilities

• Set strategy for and manage pre-litigation, litigation, and other high-risk intellectual property matters, advising senior leadership and the business.
• Lead and manage outside counsel on intellectual property litigation from case inception through closure, including developing case and alternative dispute resolution strategies, guiding the business and stakeholders, and implementing litigation initiatives.
• Investigate factual and other issues relating to IP litigation, working with business units to defend the Company and its intellectual property.
• Perform risk assessments and determine when and how to resolve legal issues, consulting key legal and other stakeholders as appropriate.
• Establish and manage litigation budgets aligned with business interests and successful outcomes, working with outside counsel to minimize costs and fees.
• Collaborate with team members, business clients, the Office of General Counsel, and Global Communications to ensure litigation strategy supports overall business objectives.
• Maintain an up-to-date understanding of IP litigation and applicable law, and proactively advise the business about legal developments that could affect the Company’s legal and reputational status.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision healthcare benefits and other insurance benefits for employees and family.
• Retirement benefits, including 401(k).
• Paid holidays.
• Vacation.
• Compassionate and sick days.
• Eligible for annual bonus and long-term incentive, if applicable.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director