Director of Legal, Global Luxury Brand

Reports to Vice President, General Counsel

$220k-$250k, plus bonus

Hybrid (4 days in office)

Manhattan

This newly created role presents an exciting opportunity for a seasoned intellectual property attorney to establish and lead an in-house IP function for a leading luxury brand. The successful candidate will be responsible for building a comprehensive intellectual property strategy and assembling a high-performing team to support its implementation.

We are seeking an experienced attorney with a strong background in intellectual property law and prior in-house experience within the luxury goods sector. This role is based in New York City and follows a hybrid work schedule, requiring a minimum of four days per week onsite at the Manhattan office.

WHAT YOU'LL DO

• Partner with the VP, General Counsel and senior leadership to develop a robust IP strategy that safeguards the organization’s intellectual property assets.

• Lead the formation and ongoing management of an in-house intellectual property legal team, including hiring and supervising support staff.

• Oversee and enhance the company’s trademark protection, clearance, and prosecution strategies, as well as handle proceedings with the USPTO and related litigation.

• Implement best practices and leverage modern technologies to ensure effective and innovative IP protection, in alignment with both global brand standards and U.S. market needs.

• Conduct regular audits of IP assets to identify strengths, vulnerabilities, and potential risks.

• Serve as a thought leader in IP law, staying current with legal developments and regulatory changes to ensure continued compliance and strategic advantage.

• Provide strategic oversight and direction to external counsel and ensure consistent excellence and accountability in all legal matters.

• Support and mentor internal legal staff, including paralegals, to reinforce strong brand protection practices.

• Maintain compliance, manage budgets, and ensure strategic execution of the IP legal function.

WHO YOU ARE

• Deep knowledge of trademark protection, prosecution, and legal issues relevant to the luxury goods industry

• Strong written and verbal communication skills

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite

• Familiarity with cloud-based document and database systems

• Excellent project and time management abilities

• Meticulous attention to detail and record-keeping

• Strategic thinking and reporting skills

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• JD degree from an accredited law school

• Active membership in a state bar

• 10–20 years of relevant legal experience, with a strong preference for in-house counsel experience at a luxury brand

REF: RE109206