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Director Intellectual Property Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mosaec

$266K - $418K/yr

Experience with patent litigation, licensing negotiations, and portfolio development, with a strong preference for experience with artificial intelligence and machine learning; web technologies ...

Guardant Health

Intellectual Property Counsel

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$189K - $260K/yr

This role will be directly report to a Director, Intellectual Property. As a member of the IP Team, you will be responsible for providing guidance on a wide range of IP legal matters related to the ...

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How much do director intellectual property jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for director intellectual property in the United States is $113,162.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,500.00 and $145,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a director of intellectual property do?

A Director of Intellectual Property (IP) oversees an organization's IP strategy, including patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets. They ensure legal protection for innovations, manage IP portfolios, and develop strategies to mitigate risks. This role involves working with legal teams, R&D, and executives to align IP policies with business goals. Additionally, they may handle licensing agreements, enforcement actions, and compliance with intellectual property laws.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a director of intellectual property?

To thrive as a Director Intellectual Property, you need deep expertise in intellectual property law, patent and trademark portfolio management, and strategic IP planning, often supported by a law degree and significant industry experience. Familiarity with IP management software, patent databases, and relevant certifications such as a USPTO registration or Certified Licensing Professional (CLP) credential are typical requirements. Outstanding leadership, negotiation, and cross-functional communication skills set top candidates apart in this strategic role. These skills and qualifications are essential for protecting a company's innovations, navigating complex legal landscapes, and driving business growth through effective IP strategies.

What are the main challenges a director of intellectual property typically faces?

Directors of Intellectual Property frequently navigate complex legal and regulatory environments across multiple jurisdictions, requiring them to stay up to date on changes in IP law and global enforcement practices. They often balance the need to protect the company's IP assets with business goals such as commercialization, licensing, or collaborations with external partners. Regular interaction with R&D, legal, and executive teams is common, making communication and prioritization skills crucial. Additionally, Directors must be prepared to manage IP disputes, analyze competitive landscapes, and develop proactive strategies to mitigate risk and optimize IP value.

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Director Intellectual Property jobs near you
Infographic showing various Director Intellectual Property job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,162 per year, or $54.4 per hour.

Director, Intellectual Property Operations

Boston, MA • Hybrid

Vrtx
See more jobs at Vrtxexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Job Description

TheDirector, Intellectual PropertyOperationsis responsible forleadingand continuouslyimprovingVertex's IP Operations function. This rolefocuses ondriving operational excellence through strong projectexecution,projectmanagement, communication, collaboration,andmanaginga teamsupporting patent and trademark administration, docketing, annuities, budgeting,software assessment,developing standard practicesand vendorengagement andmanagement.

The positionalsoserves as a key partner to IP attorneys, Finance,Technologists, and external counsel to ensure efficient processes, data integrity, compliance, and successful delivery of strategic initiatives.TheDirector will report directly to theExecutive Director, Intellectual Propertyfor Cell & Gene Therapyand be based in Boston. The positionishybrid (3-days in the office).

Key Responsibilities

IPOperationsStrategy,Projects &Process Management

  • Define andmaintainthe IP Operations roadmap, translating functional priorities into initiatives, milestones, and measurable outcomes.

  • Demonstratedtrack recordof successfully leading and executing complex projects and strategic initiatives, consistently delivering high-quality results on time and in alignment withdepartmental and enterpriseobjectives.

  • Lead cross-functional projects to improve efficiency, streamline workflows,enhance operational effectiveness, as well as the long-termIP Operations strategy

  • Manage project plans, timelines, deliverables, and stakeholder communications.

  • Drive process improvements and change management initiatives.

  • Provide strategic updates, risk assessments, and recommendations to IP leadership and senior Legal stakeholders on portfolio operations, operational priorities, and emerging issues.

  • Act as a principal advisor to the Executive Directorand SVP of IPon operational strategy, resourcing, prioritization, and cross-functional tradeoffs.

  • Provide regular reports on the status of the patent portfolioto IP leadership.

Technology & Data Management

  • Developthe IPOperations technology anddatastrategy; includingsystem governance,support IPdata integrity, reporting, technologyassessments andenhancementsand implementing software updates and transition to new software systems.

  • Lead thegovernance for IP Operations data, reporting, and technology prioritization to support leadership decision-making and scalable execution.

  • Set theAI andemerging technology roadmapfor IP Operationstostreamline IP operations, automate routine processes, enhance data-driven decision making, and improve the efficiency and scalability of the global IP function.

Leadership & Execution

  • Lead and develop a teamof paralegalsresponsible for IP docketing, annuity management, and portfolio administration.

  • EstablishannualIPoperationspriorities,resource allocation, operating rhythms,andaccountabilitymechanismstoensure high-quality, on-time execution of critical operational activities.

  • Ensure compliance with internal procedures and IP regulatory requirements.

  • Championingthe strategic adoption of AI within IP Operations byidentifyinghigh-value use cases, implementing practical solutions, and driving measurable improvements in efficiency, quality, and service delivery.

Collaboration & Communication

  • Partner closely with attorneys, Finance,Technologists, procurement, and external counsel toshape priorities,align resources andachieve departmentalobjectives.

  • Communicate project status, operational risks, and recommendations toIPleadership and stakeholders.

  • Foster a collaborative,enterprise-focused culture across the team.

Portfolio & Financial Operations

  • Drive the planning and execution of portfolio review, budgeting, and vendor governance activities, ensuring financial discipline, operational excellence, and alignment with organizationalobjectives.

  • Develop, manage, andmonitorthe annual IP budget, providingaccurateforecasting,identifyingcost-saving opportunities, and ensuring expendituresremainaligned with departmental priorities and approved financial targets.

  • Leadvendor governance andoutsidecounselbilling and invoice management activities, including spend monitoring, budget forecasting, financial reporting, and identification of cost optimization opportunities.

Required Educational Experience

  • Bachelor's degree and/or equivalent combination of relevant education, training, and professional experience.

DesiredExperience

  • 10+ years of experience inmanaging a team oflegal operationsparalegals, legal operations, intellectual property operations, ora relatedbusiness function.

  • Demonstrated success leading teams,settingoperationalstrategy,managing complex cross-functional projects, and driving operational excellence initiatives.
  • Experience implementing and managing enterprise software, databases, and technology solutions used tomaintain, analyze, and report on large and complex data sets.
  • Experience advising senior leaders and preparing executive-ready updates, recommendations, and decision materials.
  • Strongfinancial managementexperience, including budgeting, forecasting, vendor management, and monitoringspendagainst annual operating plans.
  • ExperienceleveragingAI and automation tools to improve workflows, data management, reporting, and overall operational efficiency.
  • Prior intellectual property operations experience is preferred; however, candidates withsignificant experienceleading complex operational functions in other disciplines will also be considered.
  • Proven ability to influenceseniorstakeholders, drive change, and develop scalable processes in a fast-paced, global environment.

PreferredSkills

  • Strong strategic planning, execution, prioritization, and resource management capabilities in a fast-paced environment.

  • Demonstratedability tooperatewith a high degree of independence, exercisesound judgment and discretion to make informed decisions, solve complex operational challenges, and appropriately escalate matters when necessary.
  • Demonstrated financial acumen, including budget planning, forecasting,spendmonitoring, and vendor management.
  • Proficiencyinleveragingtechnology, automation, and AI-enabled solutions to enhance operational efficiency, data management, and decision-making.
  • Excellent written, verbal, and presentation communication skills, with the ability to tailor messaging to technical, legal, and executive audiences.
  • Proven ability to build strong partnerships, influenceseniorstakeholders, and drive alignment across functions and organizational levels.
  • Strongpeopleleadership skills, including team development, change management, coaching, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

At Vertex, we embrace continuous learning and encourage employees to stay informed on advances in AI, technology, automation, and industry trends. We seek talent who bring an external perspective, demonstrate curiosity and sound judgment, and thoughtfully adopt new capabilities that improve decision-making, drive innovation, increase efficiency, and help deliver better outcomes for patients.

Pay Range:

$204,400 - $306,600

Disclosure Statement:

The range provided is based on what we believe is a reasonable estimate for the base salary pay range for this job at the time of posting. This role is eligible for an annual bonus and annual equity awards. Some roles may also be eligible for overtime pay, in accordance with federal and state requirements. Actual base salary pay will be based on a number of factors, including skills, competencies, experience, and other job-related factors permitted by law.

At Vertex, our Total Rewards offerings also include inclusive market-leading benefits to meet our employees wherever they are in their career, financial, family and wellbeing journey while providing flexibility and resources to support their growth and aspirations. From medical, dental and vision benefits to generous paid time off (including a week-long company shutdown in the Summer and the Winter), educational assistance programs including student loan repayment, a generous commuting subsidy, matching charitable donations, 401(k) and so much more.

Flex Designation:

Hybrid-Eligible Or On-Site Eligible

Flex Eligibility Status:

In this Hybrid-Eligible role, you can choose to be designated as:
1. Hybrid: work remotely up to two days per week; or select
2. On-Site: work five days per week on-site with ad hoc flexibility.

Note: The Flex status for this position is subject to Vertex's Policy on Flex @ Vertex Program and may be changed at any time.

#LI-Hybrid

Company Information

Vertex is a global biotechnology company that invests in scientific innovation.

Vertex is committed to equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to a person's race, color, sex, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital status, or any characteristic protected under applicable law. Vertex is an E-Verify Employer in the United States. Vertex will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities, in accordance with applicable law.

Any applicant requiring an accommodation in connection with the hiring process and/or to perform the essential functions of the position for which the applicant has applied should make a request to the recruiter or hiring manager, or contact Talent Acquisition at ApplicationAssistance@vrtx.com

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