Director, Assistant General Counsel - Intellectual Property

About the Role

Director, Assistant General Counsel – Intellectual PropertyLocation: Chicago, IL

Responsibilities

• Manage IP legal work within the Legal Division, including preparing and prosecuting patent and trademark applications before the USPTO.
• Assess patent/trademark registrability and freedom‑to‑operate, and manage external counsel on IP matters.
• Review IP contract provisions, conduct IP due diligence, and develop and implement IP‑related policies and processes.
• Provide IP counsel to senior management and key stakeholders, and educate stakeholders about IP.
• Stay current on IP developments and advise on IP issues related to fintech, software, AI/ML, data analytics, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and digital platforms.
• Support Cboe’s IP initiatives, including protection of inventions, marketing review, competitive landscape analysis, and responses to fraudulent or impermissible use of IP.
• Assist with management of outside counsel and collaborate on portfolio management (e.g., invention harvesting, prosecution, maintenance, risk assessment, and regulatory reporting).
• Provide counsel on responses to litigation, administrative actions, regulatory inquiries, and emerging risk areas such as sanctions, trade controls, AML, and FCPA compliance.
• Use AI tools to improve efficiency while maintaining high‑quality IP legal work.
• Participate in various legal projects across the Legal Division and perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 8 years as a registered attorney, including at least 5 years as a patent attorney supporting technology‑driven businesses (software and other technology).
• Experience with IP, particularly patents, in highly regulated institutions, including financial institutions, is desirable.
• USPTO registration and membership in good standing of at least one state bar association.
• Bachelor’s Degree and Juris Doctorate; licensed to practice law.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and document‑management technologies.

Skills & Abilities

• Excellent oral and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex concepts to diverse audiences.
• Strong project‑management, organization, and prioritization skills; able to balance multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Analytical, problem‑solving mindset and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment, providing support to colleagues and welcoming feedback.
• Knowledge of U.S. IP laws (patents, copyrights, trademarks, trade secrets) and familiarity with international IP laws (EU preferred).
• Experience with IP litigation and administrative proceedings, and familiarity with international IP laws.

Benefits & Perks

• Fair and competitive salary and incentive compensation with potential annual incentive and long‑term equity options.
• Generous paid time off (vacation, personal days, sick days, community service days).
• 401(k) plan with 2:1 match up to 8% immediately upon hire.
• Health, dental, and vision coverage, including telemedicine and mental health services.
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan and tax‑saving resources.
• Paid tuition assistance, parental leave, fertility benefits, and volunteer opportunities.
• On‑site fitness center and gym discounts.
• Flexible hybrid work environment with a four‑day in‑office model.

Equal Employment Opportunity

We’re proud to be an equal‑opportunity employer and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or veteran status. We are committed to fostering a workplace where all individuals are valued and respected.

Other Information

This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States without employer sponsorship.