Fractional In-House Legal Counsel (IP Specialist)

About Us:

Psychology Tools is a growing independent mental health publisher. Founded in 2008 by a psychologist, our mission is to develop evidence-based resources to help clinicians deliver effective therapy. To date we have helped hundreds of thousands of psychologists and therapists optimise their time and improve their sessions with their clients.

Role Overview:

We are looking for someone who is keen to develop a deep understanding of our business, customer base and culture, as well as a strong collaborative relationship with our small team, using this to inform any legal response.

Key Responsibilities:

• Intellectual Property Management: Oversee and manage all IP matters, including copyright, trademarks, and licensing issues, ensuring our content is protected from infringement, that we respect the IP rights of others and we optimize the value of our created resources.
• Risk Assessment: Identify, assess, and advise on legal risks associated with our publishing activities, in relation to all aspects of IP. Develop strategies to mitigate potential risks.
• Contract Review and Negotiation: Review, draft, and negotiate contracts with a focus on IP clauses, including author agreements, content licenses, and partnerships.
• Compliance Oversight: As well as general business compliance, you will ensure our practices comply with relevant data protection and IP laws and regulations, providing guidance to the team on best practices in IP management.
• Data protection: Advise on our strategy and offer pragmatic solutions for customer and other company data storage, transfer, use and value, including data ethics and implications and use of technology.
• Litigation and Dispute Resolution: Provide advice and oversight on any IP-related disputes, managing external counsel if required.
• Policy Development: Develop internal policies related to IP management, optimisation and risk mitigation, ensuring these are communicated effectively across the organization.
• Training and Awareness: Conduct periodic training sessions for staff on IP best practices and legal compliance in content creation and distribution.

Qualifications and experience:

• Qualification as a Solicitor in England & Wales. Further admittance in the US would also be of notable interest.
• Minimum of 5 years PQE within IP, at least some of which will be within publishing, media, design or related sectors
• Proven ability to assess and manage IP risk and find creative, practical solutions
• Experience in a commercial setting, advising on compliance with data protection laws, including around the rules of marketing, data transfer/ sharing arrangements and the drafting of compliant data protection policies and procedures
• Excellent contract drafting, review, and negotiation skills
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to explain complex legal concepts in a clear accessible manner
• Some in-house experience would be of strong interest
• A genuine interest in providing legal advice to SMEs and comfort working flexibly
• Experience with the legal aspects of mental health content is a plus but not required

What We Offer:

• An opportunity to contribute to a growing, mission-driven organisation focused on mental health
• Flexible, part-time engagement with potential for additional days as the organization grows/ requirement arises. Obviously, the role is non-exclusive
• Competitive compensation for a fractional role
• A collaborative and supportive work environment

How to Apply:

Please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and interest in the role by clicking the apply button.

Application Deadline: 27^th September 2024

Psychology Tools is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.