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 remain as passionate as ever about making intellectual property work to our clients’ best advantage. Today, our clients include many renowned, innovative organisations from across Europe, North America, and Asia.

We believe that our patent and trade mark attorneys, support, and operations staff have a breadth of expertise and a depth of specialist sector knowledge that is second to none. Our purpose is building trusting relationships and our vision is to be an independent, responsible, sustainably profitable, and globally focused firm.

The Role

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Paralegal to lead a team and support a key and growing client of Withers & Rogers. This is a great opportunity for a fresh challenge in a fast-paced and dynamic team environment. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing and developing a team of Paralegals and IP Administrators and will bring substantial experience in IP administration or a paralegal role, alongside a strong interest in people management.

This is a full-time permanent position based in Bristol, Sheffield, London or Birmingham. Hybrid working options, including working from home, are available.

In this role, your responsibilities will include:

- Lead and manage a team of IP Administrators / Paralegals, ensuring work is well organised and delivered to a high standard
- Oversee performance management, including appraisals, development and ongoing coaching
- Support recruitment, onboarding and training of new team members
- Take responsibility for managing client portfolios and key deadlines
- Drive continuous improvement of processes and procedures
- Build strong client relationships, delivering a professional and high-quality service
- Oversee invoicing for key client groups and liaise with internal teams as required
- Ensure compliance with firm and client processes within required timeframes
- Manage workload effectively in a fast-paced environment, maintaining high attention to detail
- Contribute to business development activities and wider team initiatives

About You

To join us as a Senior Paralegal, you’ll need:

- CIPA Patent Paralegal qualification essential, with demonstrable experience as an IP Administrator (secretary) or Paralegal
- Experience of managing, coaching and developing team members, for example being responsible for recruitment and conducting performance reviews.
- Excellent customer service and communication skills, dealing with clients in a professional manner.
- Ability to balance and prioritise workload, able to multi-task and forward plan.
- Ability to work autonomously, remaining composed and level-headed during busy periods, whilst also being comfortable operating in a peer-to-peer environment
- Exceptional attention to detail and pride in accuracy, excellent oral/interpersonal skills with all levels of internal and external contacts.
- Experience in using workflows is an advantage, as is an interest in writing workflows to enable more efficient processes.
- The desire to learn and a willingness to become involved in the work.

Your Rewards

- Competitive salary
- Benefits such as healthcare cash plan and additional holiday purchase scheme
- Flexible working options
- Enhanced Parental Leave options
- 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.