IP Docketing Manager

Founded in 1920, Akerman is recognized as one of the nation’s premier law firms, with more than 700 lawyers across the United States.Akerman is seeking an IP Docketing Manager. The IP Docketing Manager will lead and oversee the Firm’s intellectual property docketing function across U.S. and foreign patent and trademark matters. This role combines deep technical IP knowledge with people leadership, systems ownership, and process improvement. The IP Docketing Manager serves as a trusted resource to attorneys, paralegals, and firm leadership while ensuring accuracy, compliance, and operational excellence in a deadline‑driven environment.Key ResponsibilitiesLead, coach, and evaluate IP docketing professionals across experience levels; set performance expectations and support ongoing development and cross‑trainingAllocate workloads, manage coverage, and ensure deadlines, service levels, and quality standards are consistently metOversee all U.S. and foreign patent and trademark docketing workflows, including PCT, EPO, and WIPO mattersEnsure accurate docketing of incoming correspondence, filings, and deadlines, resolving discrepancies and complex rule‑based issuesServe as system owner for IP management systems (e.g., CPI, PATTSY, Anaqua, Foundation IP), ensuring data integrity, rules accuracy, and optimal configurationSupport IPMS conversions, upgrades, and implementations, including data migration, testing, and change managementDevelop, document, and enforce docketing policies, SOPs, and productivity standardsEstablish and manage quality assurance and audit processes to proactively identify and mitigate riskDefine, track, and report KPIs; prepare standard and ad‑hoc reports and dashboards for attorneys and leadershipAct as a subject‑matter expert and advisor to attorneys and staff, clearly communicating docketing standards, procedures, and system changesCollaborate with attorneys, paralegals, vendors, IT, and practice leadership to improve workflows, training, and service deliveryParticipate in special projects requiring docketing expertise, historical knowledge, and analytical insightQualificationsBachelor’s degree required7+ years of intellectual property docketing experience covering U.S. and foreign patent and trademark matters in a law firm environment3+ years of experience leading or supervising an IP docketing teamExpert knowledge of U.S. patent rules, PCT procedures, EPO guidelines, and major foreign filing requirementsHands‑on experience administering IP management systems, including configuration, rulesets, and data integrityStrong experience with CPI and FIP requiredDemonstrated ability to design, document, and enforce docketing policies, SOPs, and productivity standardsAdvanced Excel skills with the ability to create reports, dashboards, and performance metricsFamiliarity with document management systems (iManage or NetDocuments), financial systems (Elite 3E or Aderant), and Intapp Open preferredProven ability to lead change, train teams, and communicate effectively with attorneys, paralegals, and staffHigh attention to detail, strong analytical skills, and the ability to manage risk in a deadline‑driven environmentJob Type: Full-Time; Monday - FridaySalary Range: The firm’s anticipated hiring range for this position is $140,000 – $165,000 annually. Actual compensation will be determined based on a variety of factors, including position, geographic location, education, training, and experience.Bonus: Discretionary holiday bonusBenefits: Paid Time Off, Medical Insurance, Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance, Life Insurance, Disability Insurance, 401k Profit Sharing Plan, and Transportation ProgramWe offer an excellent compensation and benefits package. Please submit your resume and salary requirements. EOE