Job Summary

We are looking for a dynamic IP Counsel Business Partner who can bridge technical expertise with legal acumen to drive Omya’s intellectual property strategy. In this role, you will partner closely with business leaders and the Technology & Innovation (TNI) function to develop, protect, and maximize the value of our IP assets. You will provide actionable advice on patents, trade secrets, IP risks, and contracts, while ensuring compliance and mitigating exposure. This position requires strong collaboration across global, regional, and local teams, as well as with external counsel, to integrate IP considerations into business decisions and innovation pipelines. If you thrive at the intersection of technology and law and enjoy shaping strategies that safeguard innovation, this is your opportunity to make an impact.

Responsibilities

IP Strategy & Portfolio Management:

• Advise Omya’s businesses and TNI function on aligning IP strategy with business objectives and innovation pipelines.
• Provide legal guidance on patents, freedom to operate, trade secrets, and IP contracts.
• Manage a relevant part of Omya’s global patent portfolio and work with external counsel on drafting, filing, prosecution, opposition, and enforcement.
• Evaluate third-party collaborations, research activities, and new business initiatives for IP risks and opportunities.

Trade Secrets & Risk Management

• Implement trade secret policies and manage related portfolios.
• Identify IP risks in collaborations, research, products, and markets; advise on mitigation.
• Support M&A activities with freedom-to-operate analysis and IP due diligence.

Contract Management

• Draft, review, and advise on negotiation for a wide range of IP related contracts including (joint) development, license, service, NDA/confidentiality agreements, etc
• Provide IP legal support throughout the entire contract lifecycle, from initial drafting to execution and termination

IP Education & Cross-Functional Collaboration:

• Deliver IP training and promote IP awareness across the organization.
• Coordinate with regional and local legal teams to ensure consistent IP strategies globally.

Requirements

• Degree in science or engineering, combined with an IP law qualification (e.g., patent attorney or equivalent) or Law degree from a recognized institution in a relevant jurisdiction (specialization in IP law or contract law is desirable).
• At least 5-7 years of experience in intellectual property, ideally with experience in an in-house corporate environment.
• Experience in managing IP portfolios and advising on IP strategy. In-depth knowledge of patent law and trade secrets, as well as basic knowledge in adjacent areas of IP law.
• Experience in drafting and negotiating IP agreements, such as licensing and confidentiality agreements. Solid understanding of global IP law and best practices.
• Strong problem-solving and communication skills, with the ability to work cross-functionally and influence stakeholders.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and prioritize effectively.
• Excellent command of both English and German.

Contact

Simone Michelotti, HR Business Partner

Email:

#LI-HYBRID