Dr. Martens plc
Senior Legal Counsel – IP Disputes - Fixed Term - Maternity
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Senior Legal Counsel – IP Disputes - Fixed Term - Maternity
Dr. Martens is more than a brand – it’s a global icon with over 60 years of attitude, heritage, and cultural impact. We’re a thriving, values-driven business powered by diverse thinkers, bold doers, and people who bring their whole selves to work. If you’re ready to make your mark, you’re in the right place.
At DM, our values guide everything we do:
- Be Yourself
- Act Courageously
- Show You Care
About the Role
Positioned within the Legal team, the Senior Legal Counsel – IP Disputes will work closely with diverse colleagues across the business, playing a crucial role in shaping DM’s consumer-centric strategy.
Your contributions will elevate the Dr. Martens experience—whether influencing decisions, improving processes, or crafting meaningful moments for consumers worldwide. You’ll push boundaries, raise standards, and ensure the iconic DM spirit thrives in everything we deliver.
Core Accountabilities
As Senior Legal Counsel – IP Disputes, you’ll oversee:
- IP disputes & enforcement
- Manage end-to-end IP litigation and disputes across global markets (in collaboration with external counsel).
- Lead settlement negotiations and agreement enforcement with precision.
- Drive cohesive global enforcement strategies.
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Brand protection & portfolio management
- Oversee trademark disputes, trade dress strategies, and portfolio actions.
- Collaborate with Brand Protection and commercial teams to safeguard reputation and mitigate IP risks in-market.
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Strategic insight & collaboration
- Partner with market leaders and external networks to stay ahead of legal/industry trends.
- Align IP strategy with business growth objectives.
- Ensure robust reporting and knowledge-sharing across the IP team.
Key Skills & Capabilities
Qualifications & Experience:
- Must-haves:
- UK-qualified solicitor with post-qualification experience (PQE) in contentious IP.
- Strong expertise in end-to-end IP litigation and IP contracts.
- Desirable:
- Postgraduate IP qualification (e.g., LLM).
- Proven experience working in-house.
Technical & Commercial Proficiency:
- Deep knowledge of trade marks, trade dress, copyright/design rights, and brand protection.
- Ability to translate IP risks into commercially aligned actions that support growth while protecting brand value.
Soft Skills & Leadership:
- Trusted advisor to senior stakeholders in multi-jurisdictional environments.
- Strong programme management, communication, and training skills.
- Global mindset, collaborative approach, and ability to drive cultural alignment.
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What’s In It For You?
- Hybrid working flexibility.
- Welcome free pair of Dr. Martens boots.
- 65% discount on all boots.
- 50% discount on accessories.
- Pension scheme through Aviva.
- Life assurance benefits.
- 25 days annual leave + bank holidays.
- Private healthcare cover.
- 2 paid volunteer days per year.
Ready to Fill Your Boots?
If you’re passionate about owning your impact, shaping an iconic brand’s future, and growing in a business that champions individuality, we’d love to hear from you.
Application closing date: Tuesday, 14th July 2026.
At Dr. Martens, we’re committed to an inclusive culture where everyone feels empowered to be themselves. We celebrate applications from candidates of all backgrounds, regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, or age. Diverse teams foster authenticity—just like our brand’s mission to resonate with consumers globally.
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