At Inter IKEA, we do things a little different. We think differently, act differently, and work differently as well. We like to break things. Like habits. And then make things. Like music-playing lamps. And beds disguised as sofas. Even plant balls that help us look after our planet. It’s all part of our vision - to create a better everyday life for the many people. And it’s been keeping our co-workers going for over 80 years. By 2030, we hope to help millions more look forward to going home. Maybe you can help us?
Inter IKEA Systems B.V. Is the worldwide IKEA franchisor and the owner of the intellectual property rights in the IKEA Concept. This includes the IKEA trademarks, rights in IKEA product designs, copyrights, patents and other rights that together help make and protect the IKEA brand and business. Our assignment is to continuously develop and protect the IKEA Concept and to create the best possible conditions for our franchisees to implement the IKEA Concept and operate the IKEA business in existing and new markets.
The Legal & Governance team at Inter IKEA Systems B.V. Provides a broad range of legal services to the business and works closely with legal colleagues across Inter IKEA Group. Within this team, the IP team supports the business on a wide variety of IP and IP-related contracting matters in a global, fast-moving and values-driven environment.
We are looking for an experienced legal professional who can take a senior role in the team, work independently with complex matters and be a trusted sparring partner for the business.
About the job
As Legal Counsel IP, you will provide practical, business-oriented legal advice on IP and IP-related contracting matters. You will help protect, develop and enable the use of the IKEA Concept around the world. More in detail, the assignment requires amongst other that you:
- Advise stakeholders across the Inter IKEA Group on a broad range of IP matters, including trademarks, copyright, design rights, patents, trade secrets and other rights connected to the IKEA Concept.
- Draft, review and negotiate IP-related agreements, including licence, development and collaboration agreements.
- Supporting the business in projects where IP, digital development, data, technology and brand protection are key.
- Identifying, assessing and managing IP risks in a pragmatic way, balancing legal protection with business needs and opportunities.
- Working with and instructing external counsel around the world on IP protection, enforcement and dispute matters.
- Creating awareness and sharing knowledge on IP topics, so that colleagues can make informed decisions in their everyday work.
About you
To be successful in the role, we would like you to have:
- A university degree in law – Dutch law degree is a plus.
- 7+ years of relevant experience in IP and contracting, gained in a reputable law firm or as in-house counsel in a multinational environment.
- Strong knowledge of IP law and practice, preferably across several areas such as trademarks, copyright, designs, patents and trade secrets, including in litigation and in licensing.
- Solid experience with drafting, reviewing and negotiating commercial contracts with a strong IP component.
- Experience in working with international stakeholders and external counsel across jurisdictions.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English. Dutch is a plus.
As a person you are:
- Curious and open-minded. You enjoy learning about the business, asking the right questions and finding practical ways forward.
- Clear and confident. You can explain complex legal matters in simple language and give sound advice, also when the answer is not black and white.
- Flexible, business-oriented and pragmatic, while keeping a sharp eye on legal and reputational risks.
- A pro-active self-starter, and at the same time a true team player who builds trust, creates strong relationships and enjoys working with people from many different backgrounds, cultures and areas of expertise.
- Hands-on, well-organised and able to prioritise, also when several things need attention at the same time.
- Motivated by the IKEA vision, culture and values, and by the opportunity to contribute to a better everyday life for the many people.
You will work in an environment where your ideas are heard, where we learn from each, perform at a high level yet don’t take ourselves too seriously. Together, we protect and develop one of the world’s most loved brands and help create a better everyday life for the many people.
A few more details for you
We offer an exciting work environment in a global marketplace with exceptional opportunities to grow and develop together with us. You will be part of a flexible, values-driven and open organisation and will get the opportunity to work with a fantastic brand! Please send your application – CV and letter of motivation – in English. We are continuously interviewing candidates for this role, so don't hesitate to submit your application.