Legal Counsel - IP and Commercial

FitFlop is looking for a qualified legal counsel to manage our intellectual property (IP) portfolio and support our technology, marketing, commercial, product, digital and AI initiatives. Our ideal candidate will be passionate about protecting our consumer brand, and have a keen interest in developments in technology from a legal perspective.

The small but effective legal team, based in the UK, advises FitFlop colleagues all over the globe and is actively involved with every area of the business, providing varied and interesting legal work. This role will be critical in supporting FitFlop’s next chapter of growth, reporting directly to the General Counsel.

The Responsibilities:

Intellectual Property:

• Oversee and manage FitFlop’s trademarks, patents, domains and copyright to ensure robust protection of our valuable IP assets.
• Co-ordinate with external IP agents to handle filings, oppositions and renewals.
• Provide strategic legal advice on IP-related matters and support the development of FitFlop’s IP strategy.
• Support the General Counsel in managing the IP budget.
• Advise on IP-related disputes.

Technology:

• Advise the business on legal and regulatory issues relating to technology and digital transformation projects, including AI and machine learning applications.
• Draft and negotiate contracts relating to technology, software and AI, including licensing agreements.
• Collaborate with our product team on development of new product technology in our footwear.

Marketing, Commercial and Brand:

• Support the international marketing teams with pragmatic legal advice, including in relation to ad campaigns, social, influencers, product licensing and sponsorship opportunities.
• Support the sales teams, in particular with distribution and wholesale agreements.
• Advise the digital team on legal matters relating to FitFlop’s online businesses.
• Protect the brand, including with cease and desist notices where necessary.

Compliance and Risk Management:

• Monitor changes in legislation and case law related to IP, data, technology and digital innovation, assessing the impact on FitFlop and helping to assure compliance.
• Develop and implement policies and procedures relating to IP protection, data and technology use.
• Conduct training sessions for staff on IP and technology-related issues.
• Support the data protection committee with legal updates.

Cross Functional Collaboration:

• Work closely with internal teams, including technology, product and marketing to align legal strategies with business objectives.
• Act as legal adviser in cross-functional projects to ensure a holistic approach to legal risk management.

The Person:

• Qualified Solicitor, Barrister or Trade Mark Attorney.
• Professional experience either in-house, or in an IP department of a law firm or IP advisory.
• Experience in managing trademarks, copyright, patents, or other intellectual property.
• Keen interest in brands and the business of retail.
• Curiosity in technology and digital innovation.
• Proactive learner, in particular around AI and data legislation.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a small legal team.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with keen attention to detail.

The Benefits:

• 👟 Product Allowance
• ⏰ Hybrid and flexible working hours
• ☀️ Summer Fridays (6 ½ days in July and August on Fridays)
• 🎂 A day off for your Birthday
• 🌴 25 days holiday + Bank Holidays
• 🗺️ Work from anywhere for 2 weeks
• 🚼️ WorkPlace Nursery (salary sacrifice scheme to save money on your nursery fees)
• 💆‍♀️ Wellbeing Program – Retail Trust, Sanctus Coaching and Calm App
• 📚 Career development allowance ( Personal allowance to use on career development)
• 🏥 Private health care and or dental care (provided by AXA and DenPlan
• 🤩 Socials organised by Wellbeing and Feel Good group
• ➡️ Check out our careers page to learn more!

Equal Opportunities:

FitFlop is an equal opportunities employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and supported. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, regardless of age, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, neurodivergence, ethnicity, religion or belief, or any other characteristic protected by law.

We actively encourage neurodivergent candidates and individuals with disabilities to apply. If you require any reasonable adjustments during the application or interview process, please let us know. We are committed to providing an accessible and supportive recruitment experience.