IP SupportPatent Administrator
The role of a Patent Administrator is central to the smooth operation of a busy intellectual property team. It is a challenging position that carries significant responsibility and requires a high level of common sense, diligence, and meticulous attention to detail. Strong interpersonal skills are essential, as the role involves close collaboration with fee earners, other administrators, support staff, and direct communication with clients and associates. Patent Administrators are expected to uphold a high standard of professionalism, reflecting their integral role in the quality of service provided, and the ideal candidate will hold the CIPA Qualification and 3-4 years’ experience working in a similar role.Key ResponsibilitiesOnce training is completed, the following duties should be carried out independently, with minimal supervision:Correspondence & Document ManagementUnderstand and generate appropriate correspondence, including both standard templates and bespoke letters as needed.Draft letters, emails, and related communications for review by fee earners.Retrieve client information and prepare documentation using internal systems.Copy-type and amend documents including (but not limited to):EmailsLettersPatent SpecificationsMaintain digital files using the firm’s document management system.Formalities, Deadline Management & Case Management System Handle formalities such as collecting and processing documents required for filing and grant (e.g., translations, Powers of Attorney, assignments).Prepare and update formal documents for patent applications.Monitor and manage deadlines in collaboration with fee earners, including identifying and managing reminders and extensions.Process incoming electronic correspondence, particularly from the EPO.Update the case management system (Inprotech/IPT) with relevant dates and clear completed tasks.Enter new patent and design matters into the database, including filing dates and required documents.Report publications and maintain related due dates in the system.Process abandonment of cases as instructed.Check and forward grant certificates.Manage EPO and EUIPO fee instructions and payments, handling standard procedures independently.Maintain and update client and case records including ownership changes and reference amendments.Draft and send correspondence for reporting foreign publications and communications.Process foreign filing receipts and track subsequent deadlines.Validate European patents globally and obtain necessary translations.Liaise with the Renewals Department as required.Client-Specific AdministrationUpdate and manage client-specific databases and systems, including uploading documents, tracking deadlines, and handling invoicing data.Generate due date reports tailored to client requirements.Invoicing & Work-in-Progress (WIP) ManagementPrepare invoices, credit notes, and debit notes.Adjust WIP entries to reflect client agreements, discounts, and required formats.Assist fee earners with managing WIP, including reviewing invoices from foreign associates.PA & Administrative SupportSchedule meetings, travel, and itineraries as required.Manage caseloads and monitor due dates and tasks.Communicate with clients, including responding to emails and taking messages in the absence of fee earners.Provide cover and support to other Patent Administrators.Distribute incoming post to the appropriate team members.Maintain CRM systems with up-to-date client information.Undertake any additional tasks reasonably requested by partners, fee earners, or senior staff.Our client offers a market leading salary and benefits package twinned with 60% remote working.