IP Litigation Counsel – Synthon

The company

Founded in 1991 by an organic chemist of the Radboud University Nijmegen, Synthon is nowadays a multinational with over 1,600 employees and developed a diversified base of over 200 customers serving around 100 countries worldwide. The headquarter is located in Nijmegen, The Netherlands.

With a focus on innovation, science and intellectual property to drive differentiation, Synthon has become the leading B2B and D2M player in the generics industry. Driven by the desire to bring high-quality products to the market, Synthon developed a vertically integrated organization: employees globally working across nine locations including four state-of-the-art research laboratories and manufacturing units. Activities extend from the development of new drugs to their manufacturing, and in select markets to distribution.

The company is building a promising portfolio, specifically in the areas of oncology, cardiovascular and MS. With a strong history of innovating to increase access to high-quality ad affordable medicines, the pharmaceutical company is proud to develop, manufacture and out-license complex generics and hybrid medicines to millions of patients around the world.

The position

The role involves a strategic position in the IP Litigation department. You will manage complex patent litigations, regulatory litigations and other adversarial proceedings, including damage claims and cost rewards, on a global scale. You will also handle legal matters such as warning letters and managing enforcement actions, drafting and negotiating contracts and settlement agreements related to IP matters.

Your responsibilities will involve strategic direction, offering expert legal advice to internal stakeholders. You will collaborate closely with outside counsel and consultants and play a key role in developing and executing procedural strategies to maximize our success in high-stakes legal matters.

This is a global role, requiring engagement and alignment with the Synthon sites around the world. You will report hierarchically and functionally to the VP IP Litigation.

Most important deliverables and responsibilities in this role are:

• Global patent- and regulatory litigation: Manage and oversee patent- and regulatory litigation worldwide. Accurately assess and present claims for damages, ensuring seeking appropriate compensation for IP infringements. Manage cost awards to minimize financial exposure and maximize recoveries.
• Litigation strategy: Develop and implement litigation strategies, manage litigation and claim risks and align legal advice with company’s global business goals. Draft and respond to legal documents related to patent litigation, including warning letters and cease- and desist letters;
• Licensing and settlements: Handle licensing agreements and settlements negotiations related to IP matters. Advice on liability issues to ensure that we are pursuing our claims effectively and protect the company for undue legal risks;
• Compliance regarding anti-trust and regulatory matters: Advice on antitrust issues in the context of IP ensuring compliance with competition laws and litigate antitrust claims. Ensure adherence to international IP regulations and policies such that our actions are in full compliance with legal frameworks; address regulatory concerns.

The profile

On behalf of Synthon, we are looking for a team player with a demonstrated history of working collaboratively and effectively with an experienced group of patent attorneys and IP professionals and Legal counsel. This role requires a professional who is adept at navigating the distinct challenges and functional requirements within the IP Legal domain.

You will have the ability to anticipate and respond effectively to the unique business needs of a global operating pharmaceutical company, demonstrating flexibility, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of both Legal and IP issues.

You have experience in working within tight deadlines and adapting to changing project requirements. Ability to work independently, you are self-motivated, action and detailed oriented, ambition and high level of initiative.

You have a high degree of professional ethics and integrity, international mindset and a sense of intercultural understanding. You are open to change in response to new information, different or unexpected circumstances, and/or to work in ambiguous situations.

Academic requirements to be successful in this role are:

• A (post) master’s degree in law, with at least 10 years of work experience in a complex and demanding legal work area, within a law firm or in-house – preferably operating for or within the pharmaceutical industry;
• Experience with patent litigation, knowledge of intellectual property including IP regulations and policies;
• Knowledge of competition law and international contract drafting in the context of IP licensing;
• Fluency in English; strong verbal and written communication skills.

The offer

A challenging senior position in IP Legal, within an inspiring informal organization with ambitious growth plans. Working in close contact with highly professional colleagues within multidisciplinary teams in the Netherlands, and liaising with top tier law firms worldwide, with currently a focus on Europe, US and Mexico.

Excellent opportunities for further personal development in a global operating pharmaceutical company. High flexibility in working from the office and/or home.