Senior Associate – Commercial & IP

About the role

We are seeking a Senior Associate with a strong commercial and intellectual property background to join a leading South‑Coast law firm. The role offers the chance to shape the firm’s IP practice while working on a diverse portfolio of trademark and commercial matters for start‑ups, SMEs and larger organisations.

Key responsibilities

• Manage trademark portfolios from filing through registration, including oppositions, appeals and ongoing maintenance before UK and EU IP offices.
• Supervise the in‑house trademark practice and support a CITMA‑qualified trade mark paralegal.
• Draft and negotiate IP agreements such as licences, assignments, ownership and collaboration contracts.
• Advise clients on protecting and commercialising their intellectual property.
• Prepare and negotiate commercial agreements including software licences (on‑premise and SaaS), IT support, systems integration, distribution, agency, franchise and services contracts.
• Provide guidance on trade marks, copyright, design rights and related patent issues.
• Collaborate with the dispute resolution team on contentious IP matters.

Required profile

• 4+ years post‑qualification experience in commercial and IP law.
• Demonstrated expertise in trademark portfolio management.
• Proven ability to draft and negotiate a wide range of IP and commercial agreements.
• Experience advising start‑ups, SMEs and larger businesses.
• Strong analytical and client‑focused approach.

Required skills

What we offer

• Competitive salary £60,000‑£70,000 per annum.
• Flexible working – full‑time or part‑time (minimum three days per week).
• Opportunity to develop and lead the firm’s IP offering.
• Supportive, collaborative culture with clear progression pathways.