Senior Director, Counsel - IP/Marketing

ABOUT KNITWELL GROUP

KnitWell Group is new and dynamic – a best-in-class operating enterprise in the world of vertical specialty retail, woven together by the fabric of some of America’s most iconic brands Individually, our brands are strong. Together, we are powerful. Our common thread is our commitment to creating exceptional products, memorable experiences, and superior results. Whether in a big city or a small town, our associates drive innovation, thrive through collaboration, and strive for excellence in all they do.

POSITION OBJECTIVE

KnitWell Group is seeking to hire a highly skilled and experienced attorney to join our Legal team as Senior Director, Counsel – IP/Marketing based in Fort Myers, FL. This individual will lead the IP & Marketing group, reporting to the General Counsel. Working in a highly collaborative manner, this individual will be accountable for delivering holistic legal support to grow the businesses, manage legal risks and protect the KnitWell brands and reputation.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Leading and managing the IP & Marketing group and clearly articulating and communicating straightforward advice on IP and Marketing issues to senior business leaders.
• Managing the global trademark, copyright & patent portfolios of the companies within KnitWell Group, beginning with the Chico’s FAS, Inc. portfolio, including counseling internal clients and acquisition, clearance, prosecution, maintenance, and enforcement of rights.
• Reviewing and advising on company advertising materials, and communications with respect to IP use and risks.
• Coordinating with the marketing teams and overseeing outside counsel as needed on domestic and international trademark and patent prosecution, oppositions, and cancellation actions.
• Conducting and reviewing trademark clearance searches and providing recommendations and advice to our marketing and creative teams regarding infringement risks, registrability and risk mitigation strategies.
• Counseling and advising design teams on creating original works.
• Managing and providing legal advice regarding contests, sweepstakes, and charitable promotions, including structuring, drafting rules and disclaimers, and completing all required registrations and bonding.
• Reviewing, drafting, and negotiating contractual agreements, including license agreements, co-existence agreements, joint promotion agreements, co-development agreements and non-disclosure agreements and providing advice and support on IP provisions on a wide range of contracts as needed.
• Values individuality and the diverse talents of their team. Leads the team by communicating expectations, providing guidance, delivering feedback, and empowering the team to be their best.

QUALIFICATIONS

• JD Degree required
• 8+ years of substantive experience as a transactional legal counsel in IP & marketing
• Successful candidate must be admitted to Florida Bar as Authorized House Counsel within one year of being hired
• Experience with a corporate legal department or a nationally recognized law firm preferred
• Currently licensed to practice law and in good standing with bar of at least one U.S. state
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
• Proven presentation and training skills
• Ability to resolve complex, highly sensitive work-related issues
• Ability to effectively coach and leverage internal resources, outside counsel and subordinates
• Exceptional project management skills
• Ability to develop positive partnerships and influence at all levels of an organization