IP Legal Counsel

WELCOME TO SITA  

SITA is the leading specialist in air transport communications and information technology. We don’t just connect the global aviation industry, we apply decades of experience and expertise to address almost every core business, operational, baggage, and passenger process in air transport. As an organization, we cover 95% of all international air travel destinations and work with over 2,800 air transport and government customers in every corner of the globe. Immerse yourself in the dynamic world of technology while embracing our collaborative, and inclusive culture.  

Ready to redefine air travel? The journey starts here, with you at SITA.  

ABOUT THE ROLE:

IP legal counsel support for the SITA Group covering copyright, patents, trademarks, trade secrets, software licensing and related domains, ensuring legal compliance and strategically managing our IP portfolio to support business goals.

 WHAT YOU WILL DO:

Manage and implement comprehensive IP strategies that align with the company’s goals and operations.

• Provide advice and guidance on all matters related to IP, including copyright, patents, trademarks, standards, open source software issues, and software licensing & SaaS agreements.
• Play a key role in the process of IP clearances, registrations, practices, and enforcement of IP rights, including:
• Patent and trademark registrations;
• Supporting freedom-to-market activity;
• Supporting trade secret practices;
• Supporting supplier license audits;
• Handling disputes and litigation.
• Draft and negotiate complex IP agreements, including for software licensing, SaaS, collaboration, and confidentiality agreements. Contribute to template creation and maintenance.
• Monitor and analyze changes in IP law and advise on potential impacts on the company’s business.
• Support in relation to industry standards work with industry bodies and government agencies, including SITA group standards certifications.
• Support in relation to research & development grants from government agencies for IP creation and developments.
• Support in relation to IP records, valuation and monetization activities, including management of SITA’s patent portfolio.
• Collaborate with technical and engineering professionals, fostering an environment of continuous improvement and professional growth.
• Collaborate with other departments to ensure that IP considerations are integrated into product development, marketing strategies, and business practices.
• Liaise with external counsel and oversee the management of outside legal resources as needed, including management of external fees .
• Contribute in relation to IP training in SITA.
• Knowledge management lead for IP within the Legal Team.
• Scope: SITA group

EXPERIENCE:

-Full fluency in written and spoken English. Other languages are a plus.

-Bachelor’s degree in Law. Another advanced degree or qualification is a plus but not mandatory.

-4+ years of experience in legal IP matters in IT or a related field.

-Familiarity with legal technologies and software applications.

-Strong organizational and project management skills.

-Excellent communication and interpersonal skills and ability to think critically and solve problems creatively.

-Proven ability to manage budgets and analyze financial data.

-Strong ethical judgment and professionalism.

WHAT WE OFFER:   

At SITA, we disrupt the status quo, by empowering our people to pioneer innovations that touch the lives of billions. Bringing together diverse minds from across the globe, we foster a dynamic and positive workplace culture, that values our talented team members for their contributions and dedication. Check out our core benefits, enabling our people across the globe: 

🏡 Flex Week: Work from home up to 2 days/week (depending on the needs of your team and your customers). 

⏰ Flex Day: Shape your workday to suit your life and your plans. 

🌎 Flex-Location: Take up to 30 days a year to work from any location in the world. 

🌿Employee Wellbeing: We’ve got you covered with our Employee Assistance Program (EAP), available to you and your dependents 24/7, 365 days/year, and Champion Health - a personalized, proactive platform to support diverse wellbeing needs.  

🚀Professional Development: Level up your skills with our training platforms, including LinkedIn Learning! 

🙌 Competitive Benefits: Access competitive benefits tailored to the local market and your employment status. 

SITA is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values a diverse workforce. In support of our Employment Equity Program, women, aboriginal people, members of visible minorities, and/or persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply and self-identify in the application process.