Senior Associate

Senior Associate - Trade Marks

About the Role

We are seeking a talented Senior Associate with a strong background in Trade Marks to join our Dispute Resolution team in Melbourne. This is a unique opportunity to work alongside Bill Ladas, a leading expert in intellectual property law, on a range of legal matters. You will advise on and manage trade mark law and portfolio management for prominent brands, including:

• Developing search strategies and clearance advice
• Managing trade mark prosecution before IP Australia and IPONZ
• Handling disputes, including oppositions and non-use actions, and drafting letters of demand
• Representing clients in hearings before IP Australia and appeals
• Drafting agreements such as licenses, assignments, and coexistence agreements
• Conducting IP-related due diligence

Our IP practice is gold-ranked in the WTR's leading trademark professionals rankings. We focus on cutting-edge matters and foster collaboration with specialists across practice groups, using advanced tools to enhance our work. Your role will involve diverse and engaging tasks, primarily centered on advisory and IPA-facing work.

You Will Have

• Exceptional analytical, communication, and research skills to deliver prompt and commercially savvy advice
• Strong legal technical expertise and a working knowledge of practice before IP Australia and IPONZ, including experience in due diligence and contentious matters (e.g., oppositions)
• A genuine passion for trade mark law, demonstrated through your academic pursuits in relevant subjects
• The ability to provide practical and cost-effective advice on prosecution and opposition matters
• A strong commitment to client service and well-developed relationship management skills, playing a crucial role in nurturing and advancing client relationships
• A team-oriented mindset to foster effective collaboration and strong internal relationships
• Enthusiasm for engaging in business development initiatives, participating in industry-related programs, and cultivating strategic networks to grow the practice
• Excellent project management skills, proactivity, and the ability to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively

Who are we?

A firm born in Asia, underpinned by world class capability. 

With over 3000 lawyers in 26 global locations, we help our clients manage their risk and enable their growth. Our full-service offering combines un-matched top tier local capability complemented with an international platform.

We have deep roots in Australia spanning almost 200 years and acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the traditional owners and custodians of these lands and waters.

Why work with us?

We promote a collaborative culture where people feel respected, valued and supported both personally and professionally, and where diversity and inclusion also play an important role in enhancing our knowledge, driving innovative solutions for our clients and creating positive social impact. 

We live by our Principles, and strive for mastery in all that we do.  We take pride in the high quality work we deliver. Working with colleagues and clients who are leaders in their fields, means the ability to explore new paths to progress with continual learning and development, career and leadership opportunities.

As part of the KWM community you'll have access to a suite of wellbeing initiatives, benefits, policies and processes, to enable you to achieve your career goals.

At KWM, we'll provide you with the platform to Learn, Master, Lead.

Next Steps

Please click 'Apply Now' to apply online with your cover letter summarising why you're applying and your resume to support your experience.

If you have any questions or need any further information, please don't hesitate to reach out to Britt Evans – Senior Resourcing Consultant,

If you are not an Australian citizen or permanent resident, you must hold all visas and other approvals necessary for you to work for the firm in Australia.

Diversity and Inclusion

King & Wood Mallesons is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to diversity and inclusion. We encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and people from diverse backgrounds. We welcome, value, support and harness the positive benefits that people's different life experiences bring, especially as they relate to gender, sexual identity, culture, faith, disability and life stages. 

If you are unsure if you meet all criteria for this role, but have a passion for delivering high quality work, developing your skills and realising your full potential, then we encourage you to apply and have a further conversation about how you could fit at KWM.

We have a range of inclusive hiring practices – if you would like to seek workplace adjustments to complete your application please contact the Recruitment contact for this role or email