Senior Legal Counsel (H/F) 100% Brand Protection / Online IP Enforcement

Complete Guide: Senior Legal Counsel (Brand Protection / Online IP Enforcement) at Swatch Group

The Swatch Group, a leading global player in the manufacture and sale of finished watches, jewelry, and watch movements, has announced an opening for a Senior Legal Counsel (H/F) 100% specializing in Brand Protection and Online IP Enforcement. This prestigious in-house legal role is based at the group's headquarters in Biel, Bern, Switzerland.

Role Overview and Strategic Importance

In the luxury and watchmaking industry, intellectual property (IP) is the cornerstone of brand value. The Senior Legal Counsel will be tasked with spearheading the Swatch Group's global brand protection strategies, with a heavy focus on online IP enforcement. As digital marketplaces, social media platforms, and e-commerce channels continue to expand, combating counterfeiting and unauthorized digital exploitation is a critical priority for the brand's legal division.

Key Responsibilities (Expected)

While specific day-to-day duties are not fully detailed in the preliminary listing, a senior role of this nature typically encompasses:

• Developing and executing comprehensive global online brand protection strategies to safeguard the group's diverse portfolio of brands.
• Managing online IP enforcement initiatives, including notice-and-takedown procedures, domain name disputes (UDRP), and actions against digital counterfeiters.
• Collaborating with external counsel, law enforcement agencies, and customs authorities worldwide to intercept counterfeit goods.
• Advising internal business units on intellectual property rights, digital compliance, and emerging legal challenges in the e-commerce sector.

Eligibility and Profile Requirements

• Education: A degree in Law (MLaw, BLaw, or equivalent international law degree). Specialized postgraduate qualifications in Intellectual Property Law (LL.M.) are highly advantageous.
• Experience: Significant professional experience as an in-house counsel or within a reputable law firm, with a proven track record in trademark law, brand protection, and digital IP enforcement.
• Languages: Given the location in Biel/Bienne (a bilingual region of Switzerland) and the global nature of the role, fluency in English is essential. Proficiency in French and/or German is highly desirable.
• Skills: Strong analytical skills, excellent negotiation capabilities, and a proactive approach to tackling online piracy and counterfeit networks.

Job Details & Application Process

• Position: Senior Legal Counsel (H/F) - 100%
• Location: Biel, Bern, Switzerland
• Deadline: Not specified (Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible before the listing closes).
• Application Link: Interested candidates can view the official listing and submit their applications directly through the official LinkedIn job portal.