Position Summary
We are seeking an experienced Intellectual Property (IP) professional to manage patent-related activities and support innovation protection strategies. This role will be responsible for evaluating invention disclosures, managing IP portfolio, conducting freedom-to-operate analyses, and driving IP awareness through training initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
1. Invention Disclosure Review & Patent Strategy
- Review, evaluate, and assess invention disclosures for patentability, novelty, and commercial relevance
- Collaborate with R&D teams to identify patentable innovations
- Review, and refine patent application drafts in collaboration with external patent attorneys
- Develop and execute patent filing strategies aligned with business objectives
2. IP Portfolio Management
- Manage and maintain the company's global IP portfolio, including patents and applications
3. IP Clearance & Freedom to Operate (FTO)
- Conduct patent searches and analyses to evaluate freedom to operate
- Review third-party patents and assess potential infringement risks
- Work with legal teams to review IP-related clauses in contract agreements (e.g. licensing, ownership, confidentiality), ensuring alignment with company IP strategy and identifying potential risks or obligations.
4. IP Training & Awareness
- Conduct IP training programs to employees (engineering, R&D, and business teams) and management
- Promote IP awareness and best practices to foster a culture of innovation and protection
- Provide guidance on invention disclosure processes and IP compliance
5. R&D Support & Coordination
- Consolidate weekly reports from R&D teams to track progress and innovation activities
- Compile and manage monthly KPI reports from R&D teams to support management review
- Liaise with Economic Development Board (EDB) or relevant government agencies for grant applications
- Coordinate with tax consultants and R&D teams to support R&D tax rebate submissions
- Facilitate effective communication between R&D teams and external stakeholders on IP, funding, and compliance matters
Requirements
Education
- Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD in Engineering, Science, or related technical field
- Advanced degree or certification in Intellectual Property (preferred)
Experience
- Minimum 5years technical experience
- Experience in drafting, prosecuting, or managing patent applications
Skills & Competencies
- Strong analytical skills in patent evaluation and technical assessment
- Proficient in using professional patent databases for search and analysis (e.g., Derwent, PatSnap)
- Excellent communication skills for cross-functional collaboration and training
- Strategic thinking and ability to align IP with business goals
