Requisition ID: 52547
Position Type: FT Permanent
Workplace Arrangement: #LI-Hybrid

We are looking for a Patent Associate to join our Legal team in Naas. The role will report to our Patent Attorney and will work closely with the Chief Technological Officer, Legal and other functions to provide legal advice on innovation matters. To ensure success in their role, the Senior IP Analyst will have excellent technical and scientific knowledge with a keen interest in protecting the Intellectual Property of the Group.

Kerry operates a Hybrid working policy, candidates will be required to work from our offices in Naas each week.

• Monitor R&D development activities for identifying inventions and developing patent opportunities.
• Conducting patentability and freedom–to–operate evaluations.
• Searching, analysing, and evaluating information from literature and scientific communication with respect to IP matters.
• Maintenance, development, and management of Kerry Group’s patent portfolio.
• Drafting patent applications.
• Drafting responses to office actions during patent prosecution in close collaboration with external patent attorneys and IP colleagues.
• Communication with external patent attorneys, IP consultants and company inventors.
• Explain, clarify & simplify complex technical information.
• Monitor R&D development activities for the identification of inventions.
• Provide protection for the Group’s patent portfolio by enforcing any contractual obligations.
• Management of relationships with outside counsels.
• Delivering critical communications and training and developing policies and procedures.

In Kerry we understand that people have very different career trajectories and experiences. In order to be successful in this role we would be looking for the right competencies and aptitudes as well as your proven track record of success in a similar role and environment. These include:

• Strong relevant Legal experience managing and defending patent matters inhouse or in an IP firm.
• Bachelor’s Degree in science (essential).
• Master or PhD in Biochemistry, Biotechnology, (Molecular) Biology, Chemistry, or comparable education and experience (preferably).
• Outstanding communication skills with the ability to simplify complex information.
• Analytical thinker with strong conceptual and research skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

At Kerry, we believe in giving talented, curious people the opportunity to make a difference. We work as a team, searching for the best ways to inspire food and nourish life. We are a community of innovators, working across disciplines to solve global food challenges with a fresh approach. We want you to achieve whatever you put your mind to.

We also offer:

• 25 days annual leave (excluding bank holidays).
• Free onsite parking.
• Free onsite gym.
• Free shuttle bus from Sallins train station to our offices in Naas.
• Health Care Cover.
• Benefits platform offering discounts and cashback on major retailers.

Kerry is the world's leading taste and nutrition company for the food, beverage and pharmaceutical industries. Every day we partner with customers to create healthier, tastier and more sustainable products that are consumed by billions of people across the world. Our vision is to be our customers' most valued partner, creating a world of sustainable nutrition. A career with Kerry offers you an opportunity to shape the future of food while providing you opportunities to explore and grow in a truly global environment.

In Kerry we benefit from the knowledge of our colleagues who bring a diverse range of cultures, backgrounds, lifestyles, and experiences. One team fostering an inclusive culture that, above all, inspires food and nourishes life. We are committed to nurturing an environment of positivity and inclusiveness, where everyone can be at their best, both personally and professionally.

Our recruitment, selection and assessment process are based on the skills and competencies of the specific roles and based entirely on merit. We are committed to and value Diversity and Inclusion in all recruitment processes within Kerry and do not discriminate based on gender, race, class, economic status, ethnic background, sexual orientation, age, political beliefs, veteran status, marital status or any other protected characteristic.

Beware of scams online or from individuals claiming to represent us. A Kerry employee will not solicit candidates through a non-Kerry email address or phone number. In addition, Kerry does not currently utilise video chat rooms (e.g., Google Hangouts) to conduct interviews. Refuse any request that asks you to provide payment to participate in the hiring process (e.g., purchasing a “starter kit,” investing in training, or something similar). Kerry will not ask you to pay any money at any point in the hiring process with the exception of reimbursable travel expenses.

Please note: We do not accept CVs or candidate profiles from recruitment agencies where Kerry terms of business have not been signed. Additionally, we will not consider or agree to payment of any recruiter fee under these circumstances. This also applies to CVs or candidate profiles sent directly to any Kerry Hiring Managers.