We are currently seeking a dynamic and highly motivated individual with significant patent litigation experience in the pharmaceutical/biotech industry to join the SMPA IP team as Senior Corporate Counsel, Patent Litigation. As a partner and key business strategist, this individual will have deep experience in managing complex patent litigations (e.g., Hatch-Waxman ANDA) and other adversarial proceedings in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, or related life science industry (e.g., IPR). The position is fully remote, although periodic attendance may be required for U.S. in-house team meetings, and there may be some domestic and international business travel.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Partner closely with the Chief Legal Officer and the Head of IP to develop and set the company’s patent litigation strategy.
• With a hands-on approach, supervise and direct the work of outside counsel regarding U.S. and foreign patent litigation to enable the development of creative strategies and drive deliverables to support business objectives.

• Counsel management on domestic and international patent litigation matters.
• Manage caseload of patent litigations, appeals, and other adversarial proceedings, while advising on substantive legal strategy with foresight and appropriate risk tolerance.
• Develop strategies to avoid or resolve disputes, including negotiating license agreements and settlements.
• Report litigation and/or dispute status to management and other key stakeholders within the organization
• Work effectively with a cross-section of stakeholders within the organization to implement strategies and bring resolutions for disputes.

Key Core Competencies

• Sound judgment, independent thinking; acumen, drive and commitment to ethical conduct.
• Demonstrated ability to (i) understand and digest complex scenarios to identify relevant issues and risks, (ii) propose solutions that take into consideration the relevant business objectives and (iii) communicate those issues, risks and solutions clearly and concisely to lawyers and non-lawyers alike.
• Exceptional presentation and communication skills, both written and verbal, including the ability to communicate complex legal issues in a simple, understandable manner with colleagues of varying legal knowledge across the company.

• Ability to work independently and to be reliable, responsive and accountable.
• Team player with a commitment to developing strong collaborative relationships. Ability to organize, coordinate and motivate cross-functional teams.
• Ability to effectively manage outside counsel and adhere to budgets.
• Ability to handle multiple responsibilities simultaneously and still meet high quality and timeliness standards under pressure.

Education and Experience

• J.D. with at least 10+ years of patent litigation experience, with patent pre-trial and trial experience in U.S. District Courts.
• Deep experience with Hatch-Waxman ANDA matters strongly preferred.
• Preferred experience in the legal department of a pharmaceutical or biotech company supervising patent litigation matters, preferably Hatch-Waxman litigation matters.
• A degree (undergraduate or graduate) in biology, chemistry or biochemistry.
• Must be currently admitted and in good standing to a State Bar or the District of Columbia Bar.

The role requires flexibility to have regular calls in the morning and/or evening with Japan colleagues, and also ability to travel worldwide, as needed, in conjunction with managing and resolving disputes.

Disclaimer: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.

The base salary range for this role is $227,300 to $284,147. Base salary is part of our total rewards package which also includes the opportunity for merit-based salary increases, short incentive plan participation, eligibility for our 401(k) plan, medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurances and leaves provided in line with your work state.  Our robust time-off policy includes unlimited paid time off, 11 paid holidays plus additional time off for a shut-down period during the last week of December, 80 hours of paid sick time upon hire and each year thereafter.  Total compensation, including base salary to be offered, will depend on elements unique to each candidate, including candidate experience, skills, education and other factors permitted by law.