Job description

Want to ensure that IP assets are properly protected and maximized for value for a Fortune 200 Company with some of the most iconic brands? If you have a bachelor’s degree along with ten plus years of product development and technology evaluation experience, we want to speak with you!

We are currently seeking a Sr. Manager IP Development to join our Product Science and Technology team to develop Altria's Reduced Risk Innovative Product intellectual property (IP) assets. This includes developing and implementing IP protection strategies related to development activities, coordinating the review of draft patent applications, work with IP legal team to build design guidance to mitigate IP risk and ensure favorable IP-terms in development contracts or external engagements. We are looking for a person with deep experience in IP creation, a strong technical background, and the ability to assess IP landscapes, opportunity areas, and build IP protection around product/technology inventions. The ideal candidate will use a combination of technologies and product features to protect the innovation pipeline and enable our vision to responsibly lead the transition of adult smokers to a smoke-free future for the future of Altria. Preference is for the position to be based in Richmond, VA. We are open to a remote work arrangement but about 25% travel would be required.

What you will be doing:

Conducting IP audits to systematically evaluating the company's innovations (new technologies, products, and services) to identify valuable IP assets that can be patented or otherwise protected to maintain a competitive edge.
Establishing processes and procedures for capturing, documenting, and protecting new IP assets as they are developed.
Working with inventors (employees and external partners) and other business partners (IP Law and IP Legal Counsel) to properly disclose new IP assets in the form of invention disclosure and proactively work with IP legal team to meet relevant development timelines
Defining and implementing a product and technology protection strategy, including assessing and valuing potential inventions.
Driving the timely preparation and filing of invention disclosures with IP Law, and provide technical directions for drafting and prosecuting patent applications. Seeking opportunities for identifying and collecting new inventions to broaden the protection scope
Working with IP Law team to develop design guidance for development team to address 3rd party IP risk
Working with external partners to conduct IP landscape studies and share regularly report monthly highlights and quarterly updates on the Competitors IP activities. Updating internal partners on emerging technology trends and insights that are relevant for the company's products or technologies.
Staying informed about developments in IP law and new technologies relevant to Altria’s Reduced Harm Innovative Product Categories.

We want you to have:

Bachelor’s degree in Science, Applied Physics, or Engineering
10+ years of work experience in product development and technology evaluation.
An advanced technical degree such as MS, PhD. or Patent Agent is preferred
Prior experience in IP Management of CPG or relevant industry experience is highly desirable
Prior experience in providing guidance and training to employees on the importance of accurately disclosing and protecting new IP assets.
The incumbent must have strong written and verbal communication skills, be a successful time manager with a demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and priorities along with an ability to collaborate with others. - Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
Demonstrated problem-solving skills with an ability to quickly assimilate complex information.

The starting salary is based on but not limited to experience, knowledge, and qualifications in determining compensation decisions. The Salary Range for this position is: $124,900.00 - $190,450.00.

We deliver a market-competitive, equitable pay with a Total Reward program that includes:

Annual performance incentive based on individual and company performance
Competitive Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance to support you and your loved ones
Flexible Work Environment to include vacation and generous holidays
Deferred Profit-Sharing Plan (401K) with matching contributions on day 1, including a yearly company contribution
Paid Paternity and Maternity Leave
Employee Recognition Awards
Student Loan Assistance
To learn more about How to Support you and your Loved Ones, Work-Life Balance, and Invest into your Future, visit our additional benefits at Benefits (altria.com)

This position is not eligible for sponsorship.

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