Senior EP Grant & Validation Assistant
Bristol, Sheffield or Warwick
About Us
Withers & Rogers is one of Europe’s largest dedicated intellectual property law firms, with offices across the UK, Paris and Munich. Established more than 140 years ago, we are passionate about making intellectual property work to our clients’ best advantage. Our clients include renowned, innovative organisations from Europe, North America, and Asia.
The Role
This is a full-time, permanent position based in our Bristol, Sheffield or Warwick office. Hybrid working options are available.
In this role, your responsibilities will include:
1. Deputising for the EP Grant & Validation Manager regarding operational management of the EP Grant & Validation team, ensuring relevant grant and validation deadlines are met efficiently and with minimal risk.
2. Working with the EP Grant and Validation Manager to define and develop procedures to maintain or enhance efficiency, ensuring best practice and effective training within the EP Grant & Validation team.
3. Instructing validation of EP granted patents via a network of trusted providers and handling subsequent related work, such as provision of powers of attorney and other requirements relating to validation at the national offices.
4. Filing Unitary Patents and UPC opt-outs.
5. Checking and reporting official grant documentation to the client.
6. Monitoring and reporting End of Opposition notices to the client.
7. Instructing French and German claims translations to meet the Rule 71(3) EPC requirements, filing translations at the European Patent Office (EPO), and paying official grant and printing fees using EPO Online Filing software, reporting and invoicing clients.
8. Entering charges, preparing invoices, E-Billing, and uploading invoices and LEDES files to online portals.
9. Preparing grant estimates and reporting Decision to Grant.
About You
To join us as a Senior EP Grant & Validation Assistant, you’ll need:
1. EP Grant experience is preferred, or a strong patent administration background.
2. Good communication skills and the ability to interact with all levels of internal and external contacts.
3. Attention to detail and pride in work product, with the ability to balance and prioritise workload, remain composed during busy periods, and be proactive in helping team members.
4. Good Microsoft package skills, ideally an understanding of case management systems.
5. A desire to learn and a willingness to become involved in the work, both individually and as part of a team.
Your Rewards
1. Competitive salary.
2. Benefits such as healthcare cash plan and additional holiday purchase scheme.
3. Flexible working options.
4. Enhanced Parental Leave options.
5. Positive and welcoming work environment.
Applications will be reviewed as they are received, so early applications are encouraged.
We foster a supportive and inclusive culture where employees are encouraged to broaden their knowledge, challenge themselves, and share their ideas.
If you think you have the skills to succeed, we would love to hear from you. #J-18808-Ljbffr