Intellectual Property Operations Manager

Schneider Electric has a hybrid opportunity for an Intellectual Property Operations Manager in the following locations:
Boston, MA;
Nahsville, TN;
Raleigh, NC;
Dallas, TX; or Westmont, IL.

The IP Operations Manager is part of our Global Legal Operations organization and is responsible for designing, implementing, and optimizing IP operations, technology, and data-driven processes across a complex, global environment. This role partners closely with IP leadership, Legal Operations, IT, Finance, and business stakeholders to ensure efficient, scalable, and cost-effective delivery of IP services worldwide.

• Advance the IP team’s technology stack to improve efficiency, quality, scalability, and business alignment in line with broader Business Legal priorities.
• Partner with IP leadership to develop and support cost-effective, business‑aligned delivery of IP services globally, identifying and implementing continuous improvement opportunities.

• Own and manage the global IP technology portfolio and processes (IPMS, analytics, foreign filing, docketing, knowledge management tools).
• Lead major initiatives such as system migrations, data clean‑up and migration, tool integrations, and patent process definition.

• Identify, collect, and analyze operational data related to workload, cost, efficiency, risks, trends, and outcomes.
• Translate data insights into actionable recommendations to support strategic and operational decisions.

• Lead complex, cross‑functional global projects using structured project management methodologies.
• Provide clear communication, change management, and stakeholder alignment throughout project life cycles.

• Manage relationships with IP vendors and service providers, including technology, service, and external partners.
• Support budgeting, forecasting, cost controls, and business case/ROI development for IP initiatives.
• Collaborate with Finance on budgeting processes, vendor billing, e‑billing configuration, and cost optimization initiatives.

• Develop, document, and maintain IP policies, standard operating procedures, guidelines, and operational playbooks in collaboration with IP practitioners.
• Create training materials, self‑help tools, and on‑demand resources to support a global IP team.
• Champion adoption of new tools, processes, and standards through effective communication and training.

• Serve as a trusted partner to IP attorneys, paralegals, operations professionals, and business stakeholders.
• Influence without authority in a highly matrixed, global organization.
• Support and coach team members; direct people management experience is a plus.
• Champion change management, inclusivity, collaboration, and continuous learning.

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• Extensive prior experience in IP operations, legal operations, technology‑enabled operations, or related fields.
• Deep familiarity with IP processes (patents, trademarks, designs, docketing, foreign filing, annuities).
• Experience delivering complex projects and programs end‑to‑end in a global corporate environment.
• Hands‑on experience with IP technology ecosystems (IPMS, analytics, e‑billing, integrations, data migrations).
• Strong business acumen with experience in budgeting, vendor management, and ROI analysis.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.

• Experience in both in‑house multinational environments.
• Experience with IP system migrations, e‑billing system configuration (e.g., Legal Tracker), and global tool rollouts.
• Working knowledge of an additional language (French, Mandarin).

• Strong strategic, analytical, and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent project management and organizational abilities with high attention to detail.
• Strong teamwork and interpersonal/communication skills to support an inclusive and global team.
• Ability to work on own initiative, independently and collaboratively with cross‑functional teams.

• Medical, dental, vision, and basic life…