Associate Director, Patent Operations

Overview Associate Director, Patent Operations – Fenwick & West Strategic and operational leader for the Patent Practice Area, ensuring excellence, innovation, and efficiency across patent operations. Partners with practice leadership, attorneys and agents to align infrastructure, resources, and processes with firm strategy. Offers a hybrid work arrangement with flexible in‑office requirements. Reporting Reports to IP and Regulatory Practice Group Director. Minimum 10 years of experience in patent operations with at least 5 years in leadership/management. Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree or certification (MBA, PMP, Lean Six Sigma) preferred. Seniority Level Director Employment Type Full‑time Job Function Management and Manufacturing Industry Law Practice Responsibilities Strategic Leadership & Planning Partner with IP Director and firm leadership to define and execute operational strategy for the Patent Practice Group. Develop and implement multi‑year operational roadmaps, ensuring scalability, efficiency, and alignment with firm priorities. Evaluate and optimize resource allocation, staffing models and process workflows to drive sustainable performance. Operational Excellence Lead design and implementation of innovative operational frameworks and technology solutions to streamline patent workflow designs and third‑party solutions. Manage and share performance metrics to measure operational success and identify improvement areas. Ensure compliance with firm policies, client guidelines and applicable patent rules and regulations. Develop, maintain and enforce operational policies, procedures and best practices across all patent teams. Leadership & Team Development Provide executive oversight to the patent docketing department, international filing department, legal support analysts and related operational teams. Mentor and develop managers and teams to strengthen leadership capabilities. Champion culture of accountability, continuous improvement and client service excellence. Lead change‑management initiatives to support new technologies, processes and organizational structures. Cross‑Functional Collaboration Partner with finance, IT, HR, risk management and other firm departments to ensure cohesive operational integration. Collaborate with practice and partners to anticipate client and business needs, ensuring operational readiness and agility. Work with trademark practice leadership to ensure consistency in resources and management within IP. Technology & Vendor Management Oversee evaluation, implementation and optimization of patent operations software and technology platforms. Manage relationships and contracts with third‑party vendors and service providers, ensuring value and alignment with firm standards. Performance & Reporting Develop and deliver executive‑level reports and presentations highlighting performance trends, operational insights and strategic recommendations. Monitor KPIs, operational data and productivity metrics to guide decision‑making and continuous improvement. Thought Leadership Stay abreast of industry trends, emerging technologies and evolving patent law regulations to proactively assess impact and opportunities. Represent firm in industry groups and forums related to IP operations and management best practices. Travel Requirement Travel to all firm offices on a quarterly basis to ensure consistent operational oversight, leadership presence and cross‑office alignment. Desired Skills & Qualifications In‑depth knowledge of U.S. and foreign patent prosecution processes, docketing systems and patent operations infrastructure. Demonstrated experience building and scaling operational systems for large patent prosecution teams. Expertise in IP docketing and data management platforms (EFS, PAIR, EPAS, WIPO, PTO Financial Manager). Proven ability to lead multi‑disciplinary teams in a fast‑paced environment. Exceptional communication, influencing and engagement skills across all organizational levels. Strong analytical and financial acumen, with experience interpreting and leveraging operational data to drive decisions. Ability to lead through change, inspire high performance and foster a collaborative, high‑trust culture. Strategic mindset to anticipate business needs and develop long‑term solutions. Commitment to client service excellence and continuous improvement. Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office and patent management software platforms. Exceptional written, verbal and organizational skills. High level of discretion and professionalism when handling confidential information. Benefits and Compensation Benefits include healthcare, life insurance, health savings accounts, flexible spending accounts and wellbeing plans. Anticipated salary range: $168,000 – $251,250. Base salary may vary based on qualifications, experience, education, certifications and location. Discretionary bonus may be available based on performance. #J-18808-Ljbffr