Docketing Manager
Company: Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP
Location: Chicago
Posted on: May 1, 2024
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Job Description:
Docketing Manager Taft is currently seeking a Docketing Manager
to work in our Intellectual Property Group in Taft's Minneapolis,
Chicago, Indianapolis, or Cleveland office. We are seeking a
Docketing Manager who will be responsible for managing patent and
trademark matters within the patent/trademark docketing department.
This position will serve as an integral part of our leadership team
and help drive our firm forward with cutting-edge processes and
technology. All Taft employees operate under a "Client First"
philosophy-in all things, we seek to provide exceptional services
to our clients. Duties and Responsibilities: Serves as a first
level response to questions and problems from the docketing team,
attorneys, and staff to enable the Docketing Department and IP
Practice to function in a consistently productive manner.
Responsible for the overall accuracy and completeness of the
docketing of documents that are received from government agencies,
including the U. S. Patent and Trademark Office, WIPO, foreign
associates (and all others), within the requirements set by the
Code of Federal Regulations, Rules of Practices, and/or clients.
Maintains a thorough knowledge of the docket database to create
specialized reports and make appropriate changes as necessary.
Organizes, delegates, and provides follow-up on the performance of
routine and more complex assignments by working closely with the
docketing staff and management. Ensures daily quality checks are in
place to review critical docketing data and coordinates periodic
data audits. Maintains regular communication with attorneys and
administrative staff to receive feedback, perceptions of docketing
quality, and suggestions for improvement; works in coordination
with IP leadership team to implement improvements. Regularly
reviews team processes to identify new ways to increase both
efficiency of the docketing process through improved workflows,
automation or other technology and accuracy of data through data
validation tools, second eye checks and periodic audits. Ensures
team members are developing the skills and knowledge to carry out
their roles effectively, identifying skill gaps and implementing
necessary training to ensure a consistent approach is maintained
across the team. Assesses current processes and procedures with a
focus on leading and coaching the team. Identifies opportunities
for improvement that result in enhanced risk mitigation and
increased effectiveness. Partners with internal and external
subject matter experts to continuously update docketing standards.
Oversees the integrity of the docket database, which includes
accuracy and compliance with the Rules of Practice as governed by
government agencies. Establishes and maintains effective working
relationships with IP technology and services vendors. Maintains
knowledge of trends, developments, and legislative rulings
impacting trademark administration; keeps up to date on USPTO
procedural changes; performs research to clarify trademark rules;
and serves as an internal expert on IP procedures and regulations.
Leads special projects related to attorney and client
onboarding/off boarding, portfolio reviews and RFP's. Responsible
for the compilation of information for the Docket Manual and for
the accuracy and completeness and maintenance of the Manual. Works
closely with each office to coordinate the workflow to expedite the
transfers of applications without causing risk to the IP Practice
Identifies policies and procedures that can be improved and
suggests operational enhancements of the Docket Department;
documents and communicates changes to docketing policies and
procedures to management. Sets performance expectations and
measurements for the docketing department staff. Works within the
guidelines of established IP principles and practices. Immediately
reports all risk management-related concerns to management.
Maintains high standards for internal/external client service and
quality control. Nurtures new ideas and concepts. Identifies,
leads, and manages innovative approaches to business challenges and
works with firm leadership to evolve operations and system
processes that increase efficiency and mitigate risk. Recommends
and implements process improvements and changes directed to
increasing efficiency and improving service levels. Performs other
duties as assigned by Firm leadership. Qualifications: Bachelor's
degree required. At least 5 years' experience working with
intellectual property docketing systems and management. Experience
with Foundation IP a plus. Proficiency in various docketing
applications. Prior experience with sophisticated IP docket
software required (e.g., Inprotech, CPI, Patricia, Foundation IP,
IP Manager). Experience researching IP status and history in PTO
databases, including USPTO systems (PAIR, EFS, TSDR, TEAS), WIPO
Patentscope and Madrid Monitor, the EPO Patent Register, and EUIPO
eSearch, as well as public databases in other jurisdictions.
Working knowledge of rules according to USPTO procedures, 37
C.F.R., and the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure (MPEP) rules.
Ability to work effectively and collaboratively as a team leader
and member. Ability to interpret, clearly communicate, and
effectively enforce policies and procedures. Ability to
independently manage and work collaboratively on special projects.
Taft is a State of Minnesota and City of St. Paul Affirmative
Action Employer as required in those jurisdictions. Taft is an
Equal Opportunity Employer. The information in this posting
presents general duties, tasks, and responsibilities but is not
intended to be an exhaustive listing. Employment Type: Full Time
Years Experience: 5 - 10 years Bonus/Commission: No
Keywords: Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP, Evanston , Docketing Manager, Executive , Chicago, Illinois
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