Intellectual Property Analyst

For more than 115 years, Ferrara has created sugar confections that enable moments of sweetness, celebration, and connection for candy lovers of all generations. Today, the company is the #1 sugar confectioner in the United States. Ferrara boasts a passionate team of nearly 9,000 employees creating and delivering hundreds of products sold under 20 popular brands like Brach's, NERDS, SweeTARTS, Laffy Taffy, and Trolli to more than 66 million U.S. households annually and popular Dori snacking products under brands such as Dori, Gomets, Pettiz, and Yogurte 100 in Brazil. Additionally, Jelly Belly, known world-wide for its confections, was acquired in November of 2023.
Intellectual Property AnalystJob Location: ChicagoWant to make an impact?Join Ferrara, a leading global confectionery provider, as an Intellectual Property Analyst specializing in trademarks and intellectual property portfolio management. This position will report to our Sr. Counsel - Brand. In this role, you will play a pivotal part in managing and protecting Ferrara's intellectual property portfolio, ensuring legal compliance, fostering innovation, and contributing to the continued success of our iconic brands. Your expertise will be instrumental in navigating legal landscapes, safeguarding Ferrara's interests, and facilitating the growth of our beloved candy portfolio. This is an exciting opportunity to make a lasting impact in the dynamic and evolving confectionery industry.
If you are a legal professional with a passion for intellectual property and a desire to contribute to the success of a globally recognized and growing candy company, we invite you to apply for this exciting opportunity at Ferrara.
Ways you will make a differenceIntellectual Property File-Keeping and Management: Oversee the company's intellectual property portfolio, including managing trademark, patent, and copyright registrations, renewals, and maintaining accurate records. The Intellectual Property Analyst will NOT be responsible for day-to-day docketing, but will oversee and manage day-to-day interactions with outside trademark and patent counsel.Search & Analysis: Conduct thorough trademark searches and analysis to identify potential conflicts or issues related to new product names, logos, and other brand elements.Infringement Monitoring: Monitor the market for potential trademark infringements and unauthorized uses of the company's intellectual property. Collaborate with legal teams to address and resolve infringement matters.Reporting: Prepare and present reports on intellectual property status, potential risks, and strategic recommendations to senior management.Documentation: Draft and review intellectual property-related documentation, including cease and desist letters, client communications, and filing instructions.Collaboration: Work closely with cross-functional teams, including marketing, regulatory, sales, and R&D, to facilitate seamless execution of company strategies.Research: Stay updated on industry trends, legal developments, and changes in trademark law to provide informed recommendations and strategies.Litigation Support: Collaborate with external counsel and internal stakeholders in handling brand-related disputes and litigation including compiling and preparing evidence in support of opposition and cancellation proceedings.Project Management: Lead and coordinate intellectual property management projects (e.g., audits and filing projects).Skills that will make you successfulThe successful candidate for the Intellectual Property Analyst role at Ferrara Candy Company will possess:
Strong analytical skills with attention to detail. Proficiency in intellectual property search tools, docketing software, and databases. Excellent written & verbal communication skills.In-depth understanding of domestic and international trademark law, registration processes, and intellectual property protection strategies.Highly organized, proactive, and capable of managing multiple priorities. Ability to work both independently and as a part of a team.Experiences that will support your successBachelor's degree or Paralegal Certification from ABA approved program - professional certifications in intellectual property law are a plus.Minimum of 5+ years of relevant experience, with experience in the consumer goods space or related industries preferred.Ferrara's success in industry-leading innovation has been driven by deep consumer insights, strong retailer co-creation and partnerships, and a dedication to diversity of thought, experience, and people. A privately held company, Ferrara has its global headquarters in Chicago and an operational network of more than 27 locations in North America, Brazil, and China that includes manufacturing, distribution, sales, and R&D facilities.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITYWe are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. In order to provide equal employment and advancement opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees, employment decisions and opportunities at Ferrara will be based on merit, qualifications, and abilities, without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, marital or civil union status, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, military or veteran status, disability, handicap, genetic information, pregnancy (childbirth or related medical condition), or on any other basis prohibited by law.

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