Director of IP Operations - Troy, Michigan, , United States

Summary:      The Director of IP Operations oversees and manages all docketing operations for the Firm's Intellectual Property practice, ensuring the accuracy, timeliness, and integrity of all deadlines across domestic and international patent, trademark, and copyright matters. T ...

Job description

Summary:      The Director of IP Operations oversees and manages all docketing operations for the Firm's Intellectual Property practice, ensuring the accuracy, timeliness, and integrity of all deadlines across domestic and international patent, trademark, and copyright matters. This leadership role is responsible for supervising the docketing team, maintaining docketing procedures, ensuring compliance with global IP office regulations, and providing exceptional support to attorneys, paralegals, and clients. The Director drives operational excellence within a high‑volume law firm environment and ensures the highest level of accuracy and service for a diverse client portfolio.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Essential duties and responsibilities of staff designated as Director of IP Operations at the Firm include but are not limited to:

Leadership & Team Management

1. Lead and manage the IP docketing department, including docketing specialists, coordinators, and support staff.
2. Recruit, train, and develop docketing team members; implement ongoing professional development and performance evaluations.
3. Establish quality control guidelines and ensure adherence to Firm policies and client service standards.

Docketing Operations

1. Oversee the timely and accurate entry, tracking, and auditing of all patent, trademark, and copyright deadlines for U.S. and foreign jurisdictions.
2. Ensure compliance with USPTO, WIPO, EPO, and international IP office rules, regulations, and updates.
3. Coordinate closely with attorneys and paralegals to monitor deadlines, filing requirements, and special client instructions.
4. Conduct regular audits to maintain data integrity and minimize risk across all IP matters.

Systems & Technology Management

1. Serve as the administrator for the Firm's IP docketing system.
2. Manage system maintenance, upgrades, user permissions, workflow configurations, and template management.
3. Liaise with IT and vendors to optimize system use, improve automation, and support Firmwide technology initiatives.
4. Oversee migration projects or system enhancements as needed.

Process & Compliance

1. Develop, update, and enforce standard operating procedures (SOPs) for docketing across all IP disciplines.
2. Track and incorporate changes in global IP rules into docketing procedures.
3. Establish Firmwide docketing protocols to mitigate risk and ensure consistent interpretation of rules.
4. Ensure adherence to the Firm's risk management policies and malpractice-prevention practices.

Attorney & Client Support

1. Provide reliable and timely docketing information to attorneys, paralegals, and Firm leadership.
2. Offer guidance and training to new attorneys and staff on docketing processes and systems.
3. Assist in responding to client inquiries, audits, and reporting requirements.
4. Support client-specific docketing protocols, reporting formats, and communications.

Reporting & Strategic Planning

1. Generate and analyze docketing reports to identify trends, risks, and operational improvements.
2. Present metrics, audit results, and operational updates to Firm leadership.
3. Assist in annual budgeting and resource planning for the docketing department.
4. Recommend process enhancements and technology solutions to increase efficiency and quality.

Qualifications, Skills and Abilities Required:

Director of IP Operations must possess:

• 10+ years of IP docketing experience in a law Firm setting.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in a supervisory or management role.
• Expert knowledge of U.S. and international IP deadlines, including USPTO, WIPO, EPO, Madrid Protocol, and PCT regulations.
• Advanced proficiency with IP docketing software (e.g., PattsyWave, CPI, Foundation IP, Anaqua).
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills; able to collaborate effectively with attorneys and staff.
• High level of accuracy, attention to detail, and ability to manage large volumes of deadlines under pressure.
• Experience leading docketing operations for a multi-office or large law Firm.
• Training in patent rules, trademark procedures, or formal IP office coursework.
• Knowledge of law Firm operations, professional responsibility rules, and risk management practices.
• Experience with IPMS implementation or data migration projects preferred.

Key Competencies

1. Leadership & Team Development
2. Exceptional Accuracy & Risk Management
3. Client Service Orientation
4. Technical Expertise in IP Regulations
5. Process Improvement & Operational Excellence
6. Clear & Effective Communication
7. Data Integrity & Quality Assurance

Working Conditions:

Normal law office environment with little exposure to noise, dust, temperature.   

The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job.  It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of essential functions, responsibilities or requirements. Please note that a variety of factors determine compensation, including geographic location, experience, relevant degrees and certifications, and other applicable factors authorized by law.

Dickinson Wright offers a generous benefits package for eligible fulltime employees within our U.S. offices, including health, dental, and vision; 401(k) and profit sharing plans; paid vacation; and parental leave. Additional elective programs include: a health flexible spending account, a health savings account, identity theft protection, a dependent day care reimbursement account, commuter benefits, life and AD&D insurance, short- and long-term disability protection, an employee assistance program, and emergency travel assistance.

We are an equal opportunity employer.  All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.