Founded in 1905, Safran is an international high-technology group, operating in the aviation (propulsion, equipment and interiors), defence and space markets. Its core purpose is to contribute to a safer, more sustainable world, where air transport is more environmentally friendly, comfortable and accessible. Operating worldwide, the group has 92,000 employees. Safran was recognised by the prestigious Forbes magazine as a Best Employer to work in its 2023 classification.
The Opportunity
The position will sit within the Propulsion Systems Division (Pôle), based at the company’s ‘state-of-the-art’ Villaroche. The successful candidate will be responsible for developing, optimising and positioning a particular patent portfolio in line with the needs of the business. In summary, the positions will comprise the following responsibilities:
- Manage the growth and quality of the patent portfolio.
- Provide the necessary tools and framework for harmonising innovations and know-how and ensuring base protection.
- Promote and facilitate the technical side of innovations, from a distinctive and quality perspective.
- Analyse Invention Disclosures and define the most appropriate protection strategies.
- Ensure the efficiency of these innovation protection processes through the use of appropriate tools and methods implemented within the Group.
- Define the profile of inventions and the envisaged protection strategy.
- Define and manage the strategy and quality of external Patent Attorneys in relation to drafting and filing.
- Oversee policy relating to acquiring, protection and enforcement of patents.
- Manage, develop and commercialise the patent portfolio from both a strategic and operational perspective.
- Gather and assess relevant technical, strategic and financial information to facilitate the evaluation of the importance of IP protection, whether through patents, or designs.
- Continuously assess the efficiency and quality of portfolio processes, particularly in respect of key stages of filing, prosecution and management.
- Manage IP oppositions and/or litigations.
The Candidate
The successful candidates are likely to fulfil the following criteria:
- Possess a technical background covering both Electronics and Mechanics.
- Be a qualified French Patent Attorney (CEIPI), with upwards of 5 years’ experience in the IP profession. Qualification as a European Patent Attorney (EPA) would be ideal.
- Be from either a private practice or industry background.
- Be fluent in French and English. French nationality is an essential requirement of the appointee who will be expected to sign the Official Secrets Act (“Habilitation Défence).
- Be able to work to high quality standards both independently and as part of a team.
Candidates must also be able to demonstrate the following personal qualities:
- Have the intellect and professional experience to operate without daily direction.
- Possess excellent interpersonal skills and be a personable individual, able to engender immediate credibility with the rest of the team.
- Be able to demonstrate a commercial approach to their work and an understanding of the needs of the business.
- Display genuine team playing abilities.
- Be highly motivated, with the ability to organise pro-actively a challenging workload.
- Ensure that work is delivered in a timely manner to a high professional standard.
- Be focused with an attention to detail balanced by sound common sense.
- Be able to adopt a strategic approach at all times.
