Senior Counsel, Innovation Law

Role Summary

Bristol Myers Squibb is seeking an experienced patent attorney to provide business-oriented advice on a broad range of intellectual property matters to support our business development organization. The attorney hired for this position will work closely with other members of our Law Department to analyze complex factual and legal scenarios and provide timely, practical, and actionable guidance to internal clients. Excellent communication skills and the ability to work well across functions and geographies are a must.

Responsibilities

• Conduct IP due diligence on assets or technologies of interest and provide counseling on IP issues identified during IP diligence.
• Draft and negotiate IP provisions in third-party agreements, including research collaborations, partnership agreements, and mergers & acquisitions.
• Provide information and answer questions relating to patentability and the projected exclusivity of our products and product candidates across all geographies.
• Foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing across the Law & Policy Department and other functions, supporting the growth of a high-performing team and strong cross-functional partnerships.
• Demonstrate strong business acumen and sound judgment in navigating complex, matrixed organizational structures.
• Deliver practical, service-oriented legal advice consistent with Bristol Myers Squibb's mission and values.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor degree and active bar membership in good standing.
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent, preferably in the biological or chemical sciences.
• An advanced degree and/or scientific research experience preferred.
• At least ten years of legal experience in patent prosecution or patent litigation.
• Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills with the ability to influence and advise senior stakeholders.
• Effective problem-solving, risk assessment, and strategic thinking, with demonstrated effectiveness in cross-functional, matrixed organizations.
• Leadership and team-building skills, including the ability to mentor, collaborate, and foster alignment across functions.
• High integrity, flexibility, and commitment to excellence, with the ability to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary, cross-cultural team.