Senior Counsel, IP

COMPANY OVERVIEW:

Balchem is committed to making the world a healthier place by delivering trusted, innovative, and science-based solutions for the health and nutritional needs of the world. Balchem employs approximately 1,400 employees worldwide who provide the service, quality, and technology that enables our customers to win with their customers. We have built a reputation for delivering results to all of our stakeholders. Founded in 1967, Balchem, a Maryland corporation, became a publicly-traded company in 1970 and is listed on Nasdaq under the symbol “BCPC.” Our corporate headquarters is located in Montvale, New Jersey, and we have a broad network of sales offices, manufacturing sites, and R&D centers, primarily located in the U.S. and Europe. The Company consists of three business segments: Human Nutrition and Health, Animal Nutrition and Health, and Specialty Products.

POSITION SUMMARY:
The Senior Counsel, IP will report directly to the Company’s Executive Vice President, Chief Legal Officer and Secretary and will provide legal representation, guidance and advice on all IP matters pertaining to Balchem’s three business segments (Human Nutrition & Health, Animal Nutrition & Health, Specialty Products). This includes working closely with R&D on innovation projects, managing Balchem’s patent and trademark portfolios, managing prosecution of new and outstanding patent applications, managing the FTO process, handling IP-related disputes, drafting and reviewing contracts incl. trademark license agreements , and being involved in IP-related due diligence for M&A, etc. This role will also manage IP outside counsel budgets. Experience in cybersecurity, AI, or data privacy is a plus. There is ample opportunity to grow and develop as a trusted counsel and business partner. Compensation package is commensurate with experience and Balchem offers generous benefits which include medical, dental, vision, 401K with company match and a hybrid work model. The role is based at our headquarters in Montvale, NJ.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Responsible for all IP matters for Balchem’s three business segments.
• Work closely with R&D and cross-functional partners on various innovation projects.
• Manage Balchem’s patent and trademark portfolios, including prosecution of new and outstanding patent applications.
• Handle IP-related disputes and manage the FTO process.
• Conduct IP-related training, as needed.
• Handle/manage IP-related due diligence for M&A projects.
• Work with CLO on various projects, as needed.
• Manage IP paralegal (direct report).

REQUIREMENTS:

• Law degree (J.D.) from an accredited law school. Admitted to practice and member in good standing of any state bar.
• Minimum of six years of experience (at least eight years of experience preferred) in a law firm or corporate legal department environment.
• Able to commute to our Montvale, NJ headquarters.
• Hybrid work model (generally expected to be in the office three days a week).
• Ability to multi-task, be adaptable, and manage various matters effectively, including learning new areas of law.
• Strong business acumen and ability to provide sound, practical legal advice and solutions.
• Ability to take initiative and lead various projects.
• Highest level of integrity and strong work ethic.
• Ability to communicate effectively with a variety of contacts, including outside attorneys, senior management, and business associates.
• Work is mostly sedentary.
• Operate typical office equipment such as computer.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office programs required.
• Some travel, both domestic and international, may be required.