Sheppard

Compensation

Full Description

Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP, a global Am Law 50 firm, is seeking an IP Docketing Manager to join the Intellectual Property department. This position can be based in any of the following offices: Downtown Los Angeles, Century City, Orange County, Del Mar, San Diego, San Francisco, Silicon Valley • This position has a remote work arrangement, with the expectation to be in the office on an as needed basis. The IP Docketing Manager, working closely with the Director of IP Administration and the IP Manager, will oversee the docketing team, serve as the primary docketing point of contact for matter transfer-ins, and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to maintain the highest standards of accuracy, efficiency, and compliance. The ideal candidate will have extensive IP prosecution docketing experience, combined with proven leadership and management skills. The role requires at least 10 years of experience in IP prosecution docketing and a minimum of 3 years in a docketing manager or supervisory capacity. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to foster collaboration across multiple teams are essential, as are strong problem-solving skills and a proactive mindset focused on continuous process improvement. This role is critical to ensuring accurate, timely, and seamless management of IP matters, including both existing matters and those being transferred into the Firm. This position will report directly to the Director of IP Administration. Strong technical, organizational, and administrative skills are required to effectively manage the duties and responsibilities outlined below. The role involves handling multiple projects in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment and requires excellent prioritization and flexibility. Collaboration with firm personnel at all levels is integral to success in this position. Essential Functions Of Job • Oversee team of IP docketing specialists, providing guidance, training, performance management, and workload prioritization to ensure deadlines and quality standards are met. • Serve as primary docketing point of contact for all IP prosecution transfer-ins, ensuring smooth onboarding of new matters. • Maintain and enforce docketing and recordkeeping standards, including quality control procedures to ensure accuracy, completeness, and compliance with firm policies and client requirements. • Work with the Director of IP Administration, IP Manager, and IP Docketing Coordinator to help enforce, develop, and implement efficient docketing workflow processes. • Work with the IP Docketing Coordinator on keeping the IP prosecution group informed of updates or changes in USPTO, PCT, EPO, and other relevant jurisdictions. • Work with the IP Administration Team, partners and staff teams and various internal and external stakeholders to coordinate the transfer-in of matters and resolve any related issues. • Clearly and effectively communicate with clients, prior counsel, and other external stakeholders regarding matters related to transfer-in. • Troubleshoot complex docketing issues, providing solutions and proactive recommendations to improve processes. • Foster collaborative, high-performing team culture with emphasis on accuracy, accountability, communication, and continuous improvement. • Effectively communicate with Firm personnel at all levels. • Attend and actively participate in all training programs suggested by the Director of IP Administration and the IP Manager. • Contribute to the overall success of the Firm by performing other duties as assigned. • Must be available and able to work during core business hours. Supervisory Responsibilities • Oversee team of IP docketing specialists, providing guidance, training, performance management, and workload prioritization • Work closely with the Director of IP Administration and IP Manager on providing input on hiring, promotions, and performance management Qualifications And Experience Required Qualifications: • 10+ years of comprehensive US and Foreign patent and trademark prosecution docketing experience in a high-volume law firm environment • 3+ years of experience in a docketing manager or supervisory role • Proven experience as the primary contact for transfers-in of matters, including client and outside counsel communication. • Strong understanding of patent and trademark prosecution processes across multiple jurisdictions. • Demonstrated experience managing a docketing team, including mentoring, coaching, and performance management • Exceptional attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to manage competing priorities • Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to interface effectively with partners, staff, clients, and external stakeholders • Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills with ability to anticipate potential issues and implement solutions proactively • Experience with docketing systems (e.g., FoundationIP, CPI, Pattsy, or similar) • Ability to maintain confidentiality, handle sensitive information, and uphold ethical and professional standards • Experience developing and improving workflows • Familiarity with process automation, data migration, and docketing system integrations • Ability to work evenings, and weekends, as needed. Education A high school diploma or equivalent is required, plus substantial and relevant work experience. Computer/Software Knowledge Must have proficiency in Windows 11, Microsoft Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, Adobe Acrobat, Zoom, and Teams, and experience working with a document management system. Must be able to quickly learn new skills and systems. Work Environment You will be based in one of our local Sheppard Mullin offices but will be allowed to work from home. You are required to come into the office on an as-needed basis. Overtime may be required as the job duties demand. Travel Requirements As needed. California: The salary range for this position is $130,000 to $160,000 per year.