Trademark Paralegal

Job Title: Brands ParalegalJob Location: Canary Wharf, LondonContract Length: 6 MonthsIndustry: Oil and Energy, LegalWorking Hours: 7.25 per day/ 37.5 per week Role Overview:To manage domestic, foreign and international trademark paralegal activities (i.e., trademark filing, prosecution, and maintenance) in support of bp’s intellectual property needs in relation to the acquisition and maintenance of bp’s trademarks rights. To manage a global complex trademark docket, assisting a team of attorneys in resolving routine legal issues with minimal supervision. Robust vendor management, cost control and management of vendors in the areas of acquisition, enforcement and maintenance of bp’s trademark rights. What you will do:Manage domestic, international and foreign trademark paralegal activities (i.e., trademark filing, prosecution, and maintenance) in support of BP’s intellectual property needsInteract with UK Intellectual Property Office, World Intellectual Property Office and other foreign intellectual property offices with respect to paralegal matters, interact with outside counsel and instruct foreign law firms as appropriate, and manage all documents / correspondence in accordance with departmental practice; resolving the legal issues with supervisionUnder supervision, prepare and submit legal documents compliant with legal requirements for each jurisdiction and for bp’s IP practice such as powers of attorney and specific authorizations to third parties; intercompany assignments and worldwide assignments; and arrange for the legalization and notarization of them in line with country-specific legal guidelines Manage trademark attorney dockets and maintain the IP databases. From government notifications (national and international) and legal correspondence, capture accurately the deadlines and requirements for legal submissions; keep docket current; prepare initial drafts of response to office actions for review by the attorney and support the attorneys in the filing of submissions to meet deadlines.Support the global trademark renewal process across a large and diverse portfolio. This role involves managing deadlines, coordinating with external counsel, and ensuring timely renewals to maintain brand protection in all key markets. Work closely with legal, brand, and commercial teams to track renewal cycles, maintain accurate records, and support strategic decisions around trademark retention. With supervision, manage the trademark renewal budget, including forecasting, tracking spend, and identifying cost efficiencies across jurisdictions.To support large transactions/ divestments and in the acquisition or disposal of trademarks. Handling complex pre filing issues that arise and verify attorneys’ instructions.Actively contributes to agenda for drive for simplification and harmonization of processes and procedures globally. What you will have:Qualified paralegal (CITMA qualified or equivalent experience)Previous trademark paralegal experienceAbility to network and build key relationships to enhance effectiveness and to operate from a position of influence given the seniority of the individuals they interact withPrevious experience of working in law firm, or in-house legal team with trademark attorneysDemonstrates evidence of management of vendors Ability to prioritize workload in a fast-paced and deadline-driven environment. Planning and organizational skills.Ability to work independently and with strong attention to detail Strong interpersonal skills and good communicator with proven ability to lead meetings with clients. Work well as part of a team, demonstrating flexibility to support others in the team at times of high-volume workload to achieve the best results. Foster a one team environmentKnowledge of Excel and ability to provide effective reporting Previous experience of working with document management systemPrevious experience of working with trademark portfolio management tool – WebTMs or similarPrevious experience of working with Co-Pilot / AI tools to support efficient workflowKnowledge of patents / working as a patent paralegal Patent portfolio management tool – CPI or similarChallenges:The role involves working with all members of the Digital, applied sciences, privacy & brands team (attorneys and paralegals based in the US and UK) and with clients throughout all businesses in bp. Working with vendors in high-risk regions requires strict compliance and escalation to E&C / legal when appropriate.Requirement to prioritize their workload and ensure workload is completed in a timely manner to meet deadlines. In times of high-volume workload for the team, the role should seek to support all members of the team. Timely collaboration with attorneys, outside counsel and clients in relation to resolution of legal issues as many legal submissions are subject to short deadlines. Accountability for the verification of instructions from attorneys to ensure that legal submissions are correct. Expertise in knowing key legal requirements for many jurisdictions; keeping up to date with legal changes as applicable to bp’s IP assets.We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, colour, national origin, sex, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.