Director, Patents - Video

Join the leader in entertainment innovation and help us design the future. At Dolby, science meets art, and high tech means more than computer code. As a member of the Dolby team, you’ll see and hear the results of your work everywhere, from movie theaters to smartphones. We continue to revolutionize how people create, deliver, and enjoy entertainment worldwide. To do that, we need the absolute best talent. We’re big enough to give you all the resources you need, and small enough so you can make a real difference and earn recognition for your work. We offer a collegial culture, challenging projects, and excellent compensation and benefits. 

For this high functioning team, the nature of the work benefits from frequent in-office presence, and employees may be expected to work from a company office up to four days per week. While we remain committed to flexibility, this team’s rhythm includes regular in-person connection to support collaboration, learning, and impact.

The  Legal  Department provides core legal support to all Dolby functions, runs several IP-centric businesses, and leads government relations.

Position Overview:

We are seeking an experienced patent attorney and strategist with a strong understanding of the video patent landscape, industry dynamics, and pool licensing practices. Responsibilities include supporting complex licensing programs, developing innovative patent monetization strategies, offering strategic guidance, and strengthening key patent portfolios. This role involves identifying and evaluating opportunities, acquiring patents for strategic advantage, and managing a team of experienced patent attorneys and agents. Additional responsibilities include supporting technology standardization, reviewing invention disclosures, overseeing prosecution, analyzing third-party patents, and leading due diligence for potential acquisitions. This position is based in San Francisco or Sunnyvale and reports to the Vice President, Chief Patent Counsel.

Responsibilities:

• Align a growing, global, and high-impact patent portfolio with evolving business needs, including reviewing invention disclosures and preparing recommendations for the invention review committee.
• Develop and implement patent monetization strategies.
• Manage domestic and international outside counsel in preparing and prosecuting patent applications.
• Draft and prosecute patent applications of strategic importance to Dolby’s business.
• Contribute expertise to the acquisition, development, and commercialization of third-party technologies and related IP matters.
• Advise on third-party patent claims involving products and technologies.
• Support patent licensing and enforcement efforts.
• Provide training and guidance to internal teams on patent protection procedures and programs.
• Lead and mentor a team of patent attorneys and agents.
• Provide other patent, licensing, and intellectual property support as assigned.

Leadership Expectations:

• Promote accountability and foster a results-driven mindset while encouraging collaboration across teams and functions.
• Align legal strategies with broader business objectives, communicating complex issues with clarity and motivating others through inclusive and engaging communication.
• Anticipate future trends, plan strategically, and evaluate potential scenarios.
• Adapt effectively to changing conditions, embrace new ideas, and maintain resilience in the face of challenges.
• Demonstrate persistence and commitment to achieving strategic goals.

Requirements:

• 10+ years of experience as a patent attorney in a top-tier law firm and in-house, including experience leading and managing teams.
• Juris Doctor (JD) degree.
• Admission to the California State Bar and registration to practice before the USPTO.

The San Francisco/Bay Area base salary range for this full-time position is $225,000 - $318,000, which can vary if outside this location, plus bonus, benefits, and some roles may also include equity. Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, competencies, experience, market demands, internal parity, and relevant education or training. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range and perks and benefits for your location during the hiring process.

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Dolby will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of San Francisco Police Code, Article 49, and Administrative Code, Article 12

Equal Employment Opportunity:
Dolby is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Our success depends on the combined skills and talents of all our employees. We are committed to making employment decisions without regard to race, religious creed, color, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, religion, marital status, family status, medical condition, disability, military service, pregnancy, childbirth and related medical conditions or any other classification protected by federal, state, and local laws and ordinances.