Director, Intellectual Property (Patent Specialist) in United States at Jobgether

This position is posted by Jobgether on behalf of a partner company. We are currently looking for a Director, Intellectual Property (Patent Specialist) in the United States.

This is a senior intellectual property leadership role focused on protecting and shaping the innovation pipeline of a globally recognized, design-led consumer brand operating at the intersection of performance, materials science, and product innovation. You will lead patent and broader IP strategy across multiple product categories, working closely with advanced design, R&D, and engineering teams to identify, secure, and defend breakthrough technologies. The role blends hands-on patent prosecution expertise with strategic portfolio management and cross-functional advisory responsibilities. You will also play a key role in strengthening trademark and brand protection initiatives while supporting global expansion efforts. Operating within a highly collaborative legal and IP ecosystem, you will partner with internal stakeholders and external counsel to ensure robust, efficient, and business-aligned IP protection. This is an opportunity for an experienced IP professional who thrives in fast-paced, product-driven environments and enjoys translating innovation into defensible competitive advantage.

• Lead and execute global IP strategy across patents, trademarks, copyrights, trade secrets, and licensing activities to protect innovation and strengthen competitive positioning.
• Manage patent portfolio development, including invention disclosure processes, prosecution strategy, portfolio optimization, and lifecycle management.
• Support and execute patent and trademark prosecution activities while ensuring alignment with broader business and product strategy.
• Partner closely with product development, Advanced Concepts, and engineering teams to identify and protect emerging innovations in materials, design, and product performance.
• Oversee trademark strategy and brand protection initiatives, including enforcement actions against counterfeits and unauthorized use.
• Conduct freedom-to-operate analyses and provide guidance on IP risk, infringement matters, and dispute resolution strategies.
• Draft, review, and negotiate a range of IP-related agreements including licensing, collaboration, and development contracts.
• Build and manage relationships with external IP counsel and vendors, ensuring high-quality output and cost efficiency.
• Develop and optimize IP processes, workflows, and systems to improve tracking, renewals, and portfolio management efficiency.
• Manage IP-related budgeting and contribute to data-driven decision-making that maximizes strategic value.
• Promote IP awareness across the organization, embedding IP thinking into product and business development processes.

• 5+ years of experience in intellectual property law, with strong expertise across patents, trademarks, copyrights, trade secrets, and licensing.
• Law degree (J.D. or LL.B.) and active membership in a U.S. state bar or Canadian provincial bar (preferred).
• Registered Patent Attorney or Agent designation is preferred but not mandatory.
• Demonstrated experience in patent prosecution and trademark prosecution in complex technical or product-driven environments.
• Strong experience collaborating directly with product development, R&D, or engineering teams.
• Solid understanding of IP management systems and portfolio tracking tools.
• Ability to translate complex IP and legal concepts into clear, actionable business guidance.
• Strong business acumen with the ability to assess risk and align IP strategy with commercial priorities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence both technical and executive stakeholders.
• Experience in consumer goods, apparel, outdoor, or retail industries is a strong plus.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, innovation-driven environment.

• Competitive annual salary ranging from CAD $149,000 – $205,000, with midpoint alignment and potential variation based on experience and location.
• Comprehensive health coverage including medical, dental, vision, and mental health support.
• Additional wellbeing benefits such as fertility support, gender-affirming care, and 24/7 employee assistance programs.
• Retirement and financial programs including RRSP matching, annual incentive eligibility, and employee stock purchase opportunities (where applicable).
• Generous paid time off, wellness days, and dedicated programs encouraging outdoor activity and work-life balance.
• Parental leave top-up and family support benefits for new and growing families.
• Professional development opportunities, outdoor learning programs, and internal community initiatives.
• Employee discounts and gear access programs supporting engagement with the brand and its products.
• Inclusive, values-driven workplace culture focused on innovation, belonging, and continuous improvement.