IP counsel play a critical role in supporting a company’s innovation practices, but their contribution can sometimes be limited if they are viewed purely as risk managers. So how can they have a say earlier on in the process and help drive innovation rather than simply mitigating risk? Working more closely with R&D teams firstly can help identify valuable IP early on, guide strategic patenting and ensure inventions are commercialised effectively, whilst also ensuring other departments are aware of the IP department’s

purpose. Join this session to discover how you can fuel business growth by adopting a more forward-thinking and proactive approach to innovation in your company.

• Learn to improve communications with R&D teams to identify, protect and educate early on in the process

• Discover key ways to adopt a strategic approach to patenting, by understanding the invention and discussing with R&D teams beforehand

• Weigh in on the importance of considering the wider picture, and of participating in business innovation discussions to act as driver rather than solely risk mitigator