Manager, IP Support

Join Goodwin’s Global Operations Team, and make a real impact on a global scale. At Goodwin, we work with some of the world’s most successful and innovative investors, entrepreneurs and disruptors in the life sciences, private equity, real estate, technology and financial industries, and where they converge. As part of the Global Operations Team – all business professionals at the firm – you’ll collaborate with colleagues from varied backgrounds and experiences, fostering an environment where cross-functional learning, networking, and collaboration are at the core of what we do.
Here, we’re not just supporting a law firm; we’re partnering with attorneys and clients to deliver cutting-edge solutions in high-stakes litigation and dispute resolution, world-class regulatory compliance and advisory services, and complex transactions. Our commitment to integrity, ingenuity, agility, and ambition drives us, and we’re proud to have been recognised as the “Best Business Team” by The American Lawyer.
This is your opportunity to grow professionally in a dynamic, global environment, surrounded by forward-thinking peers.

The IP Support Manager co-manages and partners with the Director, IP Operations to lead and oversee the IP Patent professional staff, ensuring efficient, high-quality, and best-in-class support for internal and external clients. This role manages IP Client Administrators, IP Specialists, Paralegals, and Coordinators, aligning staffing, workflows, and procedures with the needs of the Intellectual Property Technology & Science (IPTS) practice.

Reporting to the Director, IP Operations, the IP Support Manager collaborates with firm leadership to deliver consistent, compliant, and operationally effective IP support services.

What You Will Do:

• Supervise and support IP Client Administrators, IP Specialist, Paralegals and Coordinators to ensure high-quality patent prosecution support and exceptional client service.

• Oversees daily workflow, staffing, and resource allocation to meet IPTS practice demands.

• Serve as a resource to IP Attorneys, Science Advisors, and professional staff on administrative and procedural IP matters.

• Partner with the Director, IP Operations and HR on recruitment, onboarding, performance management, training and retention initiatives.

• Coordinate team coverage and implement training or integration programs as needed.

• Develop, document, and maintain patent prosecution policies and procedures in collaboration with the Director, IP Operations.

• Lead process improvements to enhance efficiency, consistency, and service delivery.

Who You Are:

• Bachelor’s degree required.

• Minimum of five (5+) years of experience in an IP environment, preferably within a large law firm or professional services setting.

• Minimum of three (3+) years of management experience.

• Strong knowledge of US and international patent and trademark rules and electronic filing systems.

• Experience with iManage, CPI and IPDAS, or similar IP Management systems preferred.

• Demonstrated ability to manage workflow, prioritize competing demands, and lead teams effectively.

• Comprehensive knowledge of IP prosecution terminology, requirements, and processes.

• Experience in a training or mentoring capacity preferred.

• Strong management skills, including ability to direct staff and maintain a positive team atmosphere.

• Demonstrated leadership and team management skills, with the ability to foster a positive, collaborative environment.

• Strong knowledge of U.S. and international patent and trademark rules, procedures, and electronic filing.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

• Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving abilities, with keen attention to detail.

• Ability to manage multiple priorities effectively in fast-paced, deadline-driven environments.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, and Excel) and IP-related software applications.

• Sound judgment and ability to handle highly confidential and sensitive information with discretion.

• Professional demeanor with the ability to work effectively with colleagues at all levels.

• Flexibility and composure in high-pressure or rapidly changing situations.

• Ability to travel periodically, as needed, among regional IP offices.

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Benefits and More

At Goodwin, you will discover your next career opportunity with a rewarding compensation package and comprehensive benefits, including:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance

• Life and disability insurance

• Retirement & Savings Plan

• Emergency back-up child and adult care

• Paid vacation, sick time off, and holidays

• Professional development and career advancement opportunities

• Employee recognition and reward programs

• Employee wellness and assistance programs

• Employee discounts and perks