Intellectual Property Counsel

“Working in intellectual property at Richemont means contributing, every day, to the protection and development of exceptional brands in a demanding and creative environment.”

CONTEXT

To strengthen Richemont’s Group legal team based in Geneva, we are looking for an Intellectual Property Counsel (permanent 100%). In this role, you will provide IP legal support to selected Maisons, covering a range of contentious and non-contentious matters. You will work closely with business teams and other legal colleagues within a collaborative framework.

HOW WILL YOU MAKE AN IMPACT?

1. Supporting the business on IP matters

• Provide clear, pragmatic IP legal advice aligned with the Maisons’ activities and priorities.

• Work closely with business, marketing, design, and development teams to integrate IP considerations into projects.

• Contribute to IP awareness by supporting internal trainings and sharing best practices.

2. Managing IP Portfolios:

• Conduct global searches and clearance checks for names, and prior art searches in key markets for new designs.

• Contribute to trademark, copyright, and design rights strategies, filings, and registrations.

• Work closely with the paralegal team on trademark and design prosecution matters.

3. Managing Contracts:

• Draft, review, and advise on IP-related agreements, including licenses, sponsorships, collaborations with external designers, R&D, image rights, and similar arrangements.

• Support contract reviews and negotiations in coordination with the Maisons’ teams.

4. Validating Product and Campaigns:

• Review new products for IP clearance and ensure they have appropriate IP protection;

• Provide IP clearance checks and advice on printed materials, digital media content, and offline communication campaigns.

5. Enforcing IP rights :

• Manage contentious IP cases globally for selected Maisons, coordinating with external counsel;

• Contribute to enforcement strategies when needed;

• Contribute to global enforcement efforts, including anti-counterfeiting actions.

HOW WILL YOU EXPERIENCE SUCCESS WITH US?

Success in this role requires passion for IP, strong organizational and analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively. You should thrive in collaborative environments, possess excellent communication skills, and have solid experience in IP law, particularly in copyright, trademarks and designs. A willingness to travel is important to collaborate effectively with Maisons teams and stakeholders.

• You have a sound legal education with specialization in IP, admission to an EU Bar or similar

• You have 3-6 years of experience in IP law, preferably in an international law firm or in-house legal department

• You are fluent in French and English (writing and speaking skills), Italian or German a plus

• Ability to build strong relationships with stakeholders at all levels of the organisation and work seamlessly with external stakeholders, operating with a collaborative mindset

• A natural communicator, able to transmit requirements and instructions in a simple manner

• Highly organised, able to see through multiple projects at once, and keep track of communication activations

• Acting with a high degree of integrity and professionalism and building strong professional working relationships

• Able to work transparently and to deadline, in collaboration with relevant stakeholders

• A trustworthy partner, able to work on confidential or sensitive information with appropriate discretion

• Agile in your approach, able to shift priorities, depending on the needs of the business

• Creative thinker, able to propose solutions and advise stakeholders on effective approaches

HOW DO WE KEEP YOU SMILING?

You will join a dynamic, diverse environment, interacting with stakeholders across functions and countries. Our offices serve as the Headquarters of Richemont International and offer a modern and pleasant environment.

YOUR JOURNEY WITH US:

If your application is selected we will reach out shortly for an introductory call.

As part of the interview process, we always ensure complete insight and transparency, namely, you will have the chance to meet to people who will be crucial to your future success in the role.