Director, Intellectual Property Operations

Job description

Job Description The Director, Intellectual Property Operations is responsible for leading and continuously improving Vertex's IP Operations function. This role focuses on driving operational excellence through strong project execution, project management, communication, collaboration, and managing a team supporting patent and trademark administration, docketing, annuities, budgeting, software assessment, developing standard practices and vendor engagement and management. The position also serves as a key partner to IP attorneys, Finance, Technologists, and external counsel to ensure efficient processes, data integrity, compliance, and successful delivery of strategic initiatives. The Director will report directly to the Executive Director, Intellectual Property for Cell & Gene Therapy and be based in Boston. The position is hybrid (3-days in the office). Key Responsibilities IP Operations Strategy, Projects & Process Management Define and maintain the IP Operations roadmap, translating functional priorities into initiatives, milestones, and measurable outcomes. Demonstrated track record of successfully leading and executing complex projects and strategic initiatives, consistently delivering high-quality results on time and in alignment with departmental and enterprise objectives. Lead cross-functional projects to improve efficiency, streamline workflows, enhance operational effectiveness, as well as the long-term IP Operations strategy Manage project plans, timelines, deliverables, and stakeholder communications. Drive process improvements and change management initiatives. Provide strategic updates, risk assessments, and recommendations to IP leadership and senior Legal stakeholders on portfolio operations, operational priorities, and emerging issues. Act as a principal advisor to the Executive Director and SVP of IP on operational strategy, resourcing, prioritization, and cross-functional tradeoffs. Provide regular reports on the status of the patent portfolio to IP leadership. Technology & Data Management Develop the IP Operations technology and data strategy; including system governance, support IP data integrity, reporting, technology assessments and enhancements and implementing software updates and transition to new software systems. Lead the governance for IP Operations data, reporting, and technology prioritization to support leadership decision-making and scalable execution. Set the AI and emerging technology roadmap for IP Operations to streamline IP operations, automate routine processes, enhance data-driven decision making, and improve the efficiency and scalability of the global IP function. Leadership & Execution Lead and develop a team of paralegals responsible for IP docketing, annuity management, and portfolio administration. Establish annual IP operations priorities, resource allocation, operating rhythms, and accountability mechanisms to ensure high-quality, on-time execution of critical operational activities. Ensure compliance with internal procedures and IP regulatory requirements. Championing the strategic adoption of AI within IP Operations by identifying high-value use cases, implementing practical solutions, and driving measurable improvements in efficiency, quality, and service delivery. Collaboration & Communication Partner closely with attorneys, Finance, Technologists, procurement, and external counsel to shape priorities, align resources and achieve departmental objectives. Communicate project status, operational risks, and recommendations to IP leadership and stakeholders. Foster a collaborative, enterprise-focused culture across the team. Portfolio & Financial Operations Drive the planning and execution of portfolio review, budgeting, and vendor governance activities, ensuring financial discipline, operational excellence, and alignment with organizational objectives. Develop, manage, and monitor the annual IP budget, providing accurate forecasting, identifying cost-saving opportunities, and ensuring expenditures remain aligned with departmental priorities and approved financial targets. Lead vendor governance and outside counsel billing and invoice management activities, including spend monitoring, budget forecasting, financial reporting, and identification of cost optimization opportunities. Required Educational Experience Bachelor’s degree and/or equivalent combination of relevant education, training, and professional experience. Desired Experience 10+ years of experience in managing a team of legal operations paralegals, legal operations, intellectual property operations, or a related business function. Demonstrated success leading teams, setting operational strategy, managing complex cross-functional projects, and driving operational excellence initiatives. Experience implementing and managing enterprise software, databases, and technology solutions used to maintain, analyze, and report on large and complex data sets. Experience advising senior leaders and preparing executive-ready updates, recommendations, and decision materials. Strong financial management experience, including budgeting, forecasting, vendor management, and monitoring spend against annual operating plans. Experience leveraging AI and automation tools to improve workflows, data management, reporting, and overall operational efficiency. Prior intellectual property operations experience is preferred; however, candidates with significant experience leading complex operational functions in other disciplines will also be considered. Proven ability to influence senior stakeholders, drive change, and develop scalable processes in a fast-paced, global environment. Preferred Skills Strong strategic planning, execution, prioritization, and resource management capabilities in a fast-paced environment. Demonstrated ability to operate with a high degree of independence, exercise sound judgment and discretion to make informed decisions, solve complex operational challenges, and appropriately esca