The intellectual property job market is in a rather strange mood. The headlines are that for the first time in a little while, there’s a great deal more biotechnology recruitment around. But there are not many candidates. In part a consequence of economic uncertainties and in part, hybrid working, firms are hanging on to people much more effectively than they have in the past. That does mean, however, if you are considering a move, it could put you in an advantageous position.
This is not universally the case; it’s really a mixed picture across the sector. Some firms are cutting back recruitment plans, others are increasing their headcounts. I couldn’t particularly claim that one sector is much busier than the rest. In each sector there seems to be career points that are more in demand than others (electronics for example has been a little more focused on earlier-career candidates). Here’s a summary of what we have going on. We’d love to hear from you if you’re thinking about moving.
Biotechnology, Partners and Senior Associates
Biotechnology vacancies are at the more senior level for the most part. We have two positions in London, one at Salaried Partner and the other for a Senior Associate who wants a career path to Partner. Neither of them requires a client following.
In respect to the former, they have an existing portfolio of work, support for growing the practice further, a budget for supporting long terms plans you might have (such as international travel/conferences) and a long-term progression plan.
For the Senior Associate role, the firm are interested in someone who is aiming for partnership in the next couple of years (or possibly sooner) but perhaps feels that’s impossible in their current firm (or perhaps is getting itchy feet because it’s possible but unsure if that’s what you want there). There is considerable infrastructural support to give you the skills you need to develop and you will be highly involved in training, mentoring and business development.
As for other biotechnology roles, there has been a smattering of part qualified positions but only really one or two firms that have been recruiting (if you’re a firm looking for candidates in that area, we may have some ideas).
We also have some international options in biotechnology. More on that later.
Electronics/AI
We have two roles in particular with an electronics focus. The first being for a London based part qualified looking for lots of exposure to business development and the opportunity to forge more intimate client relationships with start-ups, incubators, and SMEs. There’s a huge amount of support and training available, so it really isn’t an issue if you haven’t had much direct experience in your previous role.
The second has a bit more flexibility in terms of experience – anything from part qualified up to 2-3 years’ PQE. Again, the role can be based in London however the Partners would really prefer someone in Cambridge so if punting and stunning architecture is your bag this one is for you. Their main client works in telecommunications, and a big chunk of the portfolio is dedicated to this area of tech (specifically SEPs), however there’s still the chance to work in other areas if you fancy branching out from time to time.
Engineering
Engineering is fairly similar to biotechnology, we’ve had more activity at senior levels, particularly Associate and Senior Associate. There are also potentially more opportunities outside of London than within it.
Chemistry
Chemistry roles have been especially quiet of late. I think if you are a Partner with a client following there would be some options. Also, candidates with experience in renewable energy and/or considering a move to Scotland could have some possibilities.
Trade Marks / IP Solicitors
As it’s a small market the trade mark sector defies most predictions. We are aware of a couple of Senior Associate level roles at the moment (London or potentially the regions) plus a newly qualified role in the Northwest. The latter would also suit a solicitor with IP experience and some experience of trade mark work.
International
We have quite a few opportunities in Singapore. Associate, Senior Associate and Partner roles in biotechnology, as well as electronics patent attorney roles around newly/recently qualified level (with some flexibility). Attorneys need to be qualified but there’s flexibility on where from. In addition to European patent attorneys, we’d be keen to speak to US or Canadian attorneys who would be interested in relocation.
There is the scope to cross-qualify and as you would be working for an international firm there could be international opportunities in the longer term.
For more information on the IP job market at the moment you can get in touch with us at [email protected] or phone: +44 20 7030 3320.