Director of Intellectual Property (IP) - Global Investment & Advisory Ecosystem

Our client operates a sophisticated global IP investment and advisory ecosystem. With over 15 years of experience in IP strategy consulting, they have expanded into IP commercialization and investment, partnering with top-tier universities and corporations worldwide.

The group has a strong presence in multiple regions (including the UK, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East), and manages both advisory services and investment funds, focusing on transforming early-stage research into high-value intellectual property assets that are licensed, commercialized, and sold globally.

Role Summary

We are seeking a Director of Intellectual Property (IP) to lead the commercialization, licensing, and monetization of intellectual property across diverse sectors. This senior leadership role requires deep expertise in IP strategy, university tech transfer, and corporate licensing, with the ability to navigate the entire IP lifecycle from creation to monetization.

The position is location-flexible (remote/hybrid/global) and is ideal for someone passionate about shaping the future of IP investment, commercialization, and innovation strategy.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead global IP commercialization efforts, focusing on licensing, partnerships, and IP sales.
• Manage and oversee multiple IP portfolios across industries and geographies.
• Build strong relationships with universities, research institutions, corporates, and buyers of IP.
• Develop and negotiate deal structures, licensing agreements, and commercialization models.
• Identify opportunities for cross-sector IP applications (food science, agriculture, technology, etc.).
• Provide strategic input on IP litigation, protection, and enforcement from a business standpoint.
• Collaborate with investment teams to evaluate IP assets for potential acquisition or funding.
• Drive the strategic deployment of IP assets to maximize return on investment and market impact.

Requirements

Essential Requirements

• 15+ years of experience in Intellectual Property management, commercialization, or strategy.
• Background in university tech transfer or corporate IP offices.
• Strong track record in IP licensing, commercialization, and monetization.
• Deep understanding of licensing fees, deal structures, and IP market dynamics.
• Experience with cross-sector IP portfolios (not just single patents).
• Familiarity with IP litigation processes from a commercial perspective.
• Practical knowledge of the full IP journey – from creation to market sale.

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Started career in university tech transfer, then transitioned into corporate IP strategy/licensing.
• Experience across multiple industries (agriculture, food science, technology, biotech, etc.).
• Proven ability to sell and negotiate IP assets with major corporations.
• Strong global network of research institutions, corporates, and IP buyers.
• Female candidates are highly encouraged to apply.