VP, Intellectual Property – Biologics

About The Role

Strategic leader responsible for worldwide intellectual property (IP) efforts for the company’s US-based biologics portfolio, including patent prosecution, maintenance, and enforcement. Leads the in-house IP team and outside counsel relationships.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and strategically manage in-house patent team (US biologics) and related outside counsel.
• Serve on IP leadership team reporting to the Swiss-based Global Head of Intellectual Property.
• Draft and review IP work product; direct and provide hands‑on input.
• Identify and navigate worldwide patent opportunities/risks.
• Drive IP due diligence, technology assessments, and freedom-to-operate (FTO) for strategic transactions; supervise outside counsel.
• Counsel key stakeholders on protecting/defending IP worldwide (including lead assets and early‑stage research).
• Manage in-house/outside counsel for IP proceedings, challenges, disputes, litigation (including biosimilar litigation).
• Build budgets, forecast resources for patent drafting/prosecution/maintenance/enforcement.
• Enhance IP processes (portfolio reviews, long-range planning, patent review committee, invention disclosures, pre-publication review, IP contract provisions).

Requirements / Skills

• JD; admission to practice in California preferred.
• 15+ years IP experience with significant in-house and/or law firm biologic drug patent experience.
• Advanced degree in biology, chemistry, or related field.
• Registered to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (required).
• Strong analytical, organizational, interpersonal, and cross-functional business acumen.
• Demonstrated leadership influencing senior management (C‑suite); ability to mentor and manage; strong written/oral communication.
• Patent expertise: preparation, US/foreign prosecution, IP due diligence, strategic counseling, and IP litigation (incl. biosimilar litigation; market exclusivity‑related regulatory aspects).

Compensation / Benefits

• Annual base salary: $308,000–$420,000; annual bonus target 40% of earned base; equity long-term incentive eligibility.
• Benefits: retirement savings with company match, paid vacation/holidays/personal days, paid caregiver/parental and medical leave, and medical/prescription drug/dental/vision coverage.