Counsel, Global Patents

Job description

Job Description Counsel – Global Patents & Innovation Location: Glenview & Chicago / AON – Hybrid Reports to: Chief Counsel, Global Patents & Innovation This position is part of Kraft Heinz’s Legal Department and provides legal counsel to the R&D organization to ensure current and future innovations are appropriately protected. This position reports to Kraft Heinz’s Chief Counsel, Global Patents & Innovation, and is expected to bring expertise in patent preparation and prosecution, freedom‑to‑operate analysis, intellectual property protection strategy, trade secrets, and R&D agreements. Key Responsibilities: - Serve as the primary legal resource for designated business units and technology areas within R&D. - Advise R&D on intellectual property protection strategies, including patent preparation, prosecution decisions, portfolio development, and risk assessment. - Drive strategic patent filing decisions aligned with innovation roadmaps and business priorities. - Draft, review, and negotiate R&D-related agreements, including non-disclosure, material transfer, joint development, and license agreements. - Advise on the appropriate structure and use of R&D agreements to protect IP owne...