IP & Commercial Legal Counsel

The Forensic Science Service (‘FSS’) is one of the world’s leading providers of forensic science services and is responsible for every major breakthrough in the field of DNA forensic analysis globally – including the development of the world’s first National DNA Database. In the UK, the FSS is the market leader and offers an unrivalled breadth of analysis and interpretation services including DNA analysis, drugs, forgeries, firearms, footwear and fibres.

The FSS has highly talented, innovative people who take a fierce pride in their work and who are committed to giving our customers what they want. Following a review of its legal services requirement, an exciting opportunity has arisen with the creation of two new roles within the Legal Team. As an integral part of the team, you will report to the General Counsel and Head of Legal Department. These roles are multi-faceted which will include contributing to team strategic plans and exposure to a diverse workload. Both lawyers will be instrumental in advising the business at all levels and will work closely as a commercial partner with the business executives across the Commercial, Patent, Research & Development and Business Development functions of the company.

You will need:-

• a minimum of 4 years’ experience working in an IP team either in-house or in private practice (preferably with secondment experience);
• to assume responsibility for specific product opportunities and provide highly commercial legal advice across a range of business activities;
• extensive experience in drafting (without supervision) collaboration, material transfer, trade mark, know-how and software licences;
• to advise on all aspects of IP Law including copyright, design rights, patent law, trade mark law, patent strategy and provide an indication of potential litigation risk so that external lawyers can be instructed if litigation will ensue or settlement negotiations can commence;
• to provide an effective link between the Legal Team and the International/R&D division and patent attorneys;
• a biotech or similar scientific background.

You will need:-

• a minimum of 3 years’ experience working within a well-regarded commercial legal environment;
• extensive multi-jurisdictional experience drafting and negotiating (without supervision) complex commercial contracts relating to distribution, large procurement tenders, licensing, EU, software, intellectual property and inter-government issues;
• knowledge of competition law - knowledge of Data Protection and FOI legislation, corporate transactions and litigation;
• to create solutions to contractual issues and the ability to balance effective legal risk management whilst remaining highly commercial in your outlook.

Candidates for both posts should be able to demonstrate: strong drafting skills; attention to detail together with a strong drive to complete tasks and deliver to promises; a commercial approach to balancing legal risks against business interests and will be an enthusiastic team player.

These opportunities would suit ambitious lawyers in private practice seeking to make their first move in-house or in-house lawyers seeking a fresh challenge. You will be rewarded with an exciting working environment and excellent long-term prospects as well as the opportunity to be involved in the strategic development of the FSS.