Head of IP Strategy (Intellectual Property), Technology Transfer & Innovation Office

Head of (Intellectual Property) IP Strategy, Technology Transfer & Innovation Office Research Translation Hub, Technology Transfer & Innovation Office (TTIO) Position Summary

The Head of IP Strategy provides expert leadership in the management and strategic oversight of KAUST's IP portfolio and team. As a core member of the TTIO Leadership Team, the role contributes to the development and execution of TTIO strategy, drives team performance and development, and cultivates strong internal and external stakeholder relationships to advance the University's IP objectives and reputation.

Major Responsibilities Expert IP Management

• Execute the role of IP Principal, maintaining focus on both the operational and strategic dimensions of the function, and providing expert technical leadership in the management of KAUST's intellectual property portfolio, commercialization activities, and highly complex IP matters.
• Serve as a core member of the TTIO Leadership Team, actively contributing to meetings and the development and execution of TTIO strategy as directed by the TTIO Director.
• Oversee the health and performance of the TTIO pipeline, including prioritization, team workload and capability development, budget oversight, risk management, and process optimization.
• Provide regular reporting, insights, and analysis to inform strategic decision-making.
• Monitor and advance IP Strategy Team and TTIO KPIs, maintaining accountability for the effective management and performance of KAUST's IP portfolio.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of TTIO strategy, operating model, efficiency, and effectiveness, and identify/implement innovative opportunities to enhance TTIO initiatives.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including senior leadership, partners, service providers, and attorneys.
• Develop and maintain a strong external profile that enhances the reputation of TTIO and KAUST, including representation at external meetings, workshops, and conferences.
• Lead the development and periodic review of KAUST's institutional IP strategy to ensure alignment with research, commercialization, and national innovation priorities.

Team Talent Development

Engage with IP Strategy Team members to assess skills, capabilities, and development needs.

Develop individual and team development plans to address capability gaps, cultivate talent, and support succession planning aligned with TTIO and KAUST business priorities.

Conduct regular one on one meetings with team members to support professional development.

Team Performance Management

Actively manage and maintain accountability for the performance of the IP Strategy Team and the IP sprint process, including workload, timeliness, quality, responsiveness, and follow through.

Address performance issues promptly to maintain high standards.

Being Part of the TTIO

Demonstrate and model the values and professional standards of TTIO and KAUST.

Perform other related duties as directed by the TTIO Director.

Personal Requirements

• Expert understanding of IP laws and practice in Saudi Arabia and the United States.
• Strong delegation skills to manage workload effectively while maintaining leadership focus and supporting team development.
• Demonstrated initiative, reliability, and credibility as a senior leader.
• Understanding of IP laws and practice in jurisdictions beyond Saudi Arabia and the US is desirable.
• Demonstrates an efficient, effective, and transparent approach to work
• Proactive and responsive in engagement with colleagues and stakeholders.
• Collaborative leader who inspires confidence and trust.
• Applies sound, commercially focused judgment and supports data driven decision making.
• Committed to continual improvement and professional excellence.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills; communicate clearly, concisely, respectfully, and professionally.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in law, Science, Engineering, or a related field (advanced degree preferred).
• Professional certification or qualification as an IP Manager, Specialist, or Professional.

Experience

• A minimum of 12 years of relevant post qualification experience in intellectual property.
• Extensive experience advising on and managing a broad range of IP issues and disputes, including inventions, trade secrets, copyright, software, and designs.
• Demonstrated experience in leading an IP portfolio and advising on IP aspects of commercial transactions.
• Proven experience in leading and developing an IP team, contributing to IP strategy, and developing organizational IP policies.