Position Overview

We are seeking a strategic and results-oriented Vice President of Licensing to lead our client’s litigation/licensing efforts, with a strong focus on semiconductor technologies, particularly DRAM memory. This role requires deep legal expertise, technical fluency in semiconductor systems.

As a key member of the legal leadership team, you will collaborate closely with executive leadership, engineering, IP, compliance, and external counsel to protect the company’s interests and proactively manage litigation risk across jurisdictions.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead global IP strategy, encompassing patent licensing, enforcement, litigation, and portfolio management.
• Oversee and direct high-stakes patent litigation in the United States and internationally
• Manage outside counsel and litigation strategy for major patent infringement cases
• Coordinate defense of multiple Inter Partes Review (IPR) proceedings and ensure the continued strength of Netlist’s patents.
• Collaborate with internal engineering teams and external patent counsel to develop and expand the company’s patent portfolio, including acquisitions and new patent filings.
• Lead negotiations and execution of complex agreements including patent licenses, supply and purchase contracts, and non-disclosure agreements.
• Manage external consultants supporting litigation analysis, portfolio development, and infringement evaluation.
• Serve as the executive liaison for all IP-related matters, providing strategic counsel to senior leadership and the Board of Directors.
• Ensure all licensing and litigation activities comply with legal and regulatory requirements across global jurisdictions.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school; admission to at least one U.S. state bar required.
• Minimum of 15 years of experience in intellectual property law, with at least 7 years in a senior leadership role overseeing patent licensing and litigation in the semiconductor industry.
• Demonstrated success leading complex patent litigation resulting in significant jury verdicts or settlements.
• Deep understanding of DRAM, NAND, and high-performance memory architectures and their associated IP landscapes.
• Proven record of negotiating and executing high-value licensing agreements with major technology firms.
• Strong management experience with external counsel, consultants, and cross-functional engineering teams.
• Exceptional communication and negotiation skills with the ability to influence executive stakeholders and external partners.
• Strategic thinker capable of balancing enforcement with business development objectives

Preferred

• In-house counsel experience at a semiconductor, NPE or technology company.
• Experience with licensing negotiations, standards-essential patents (SEPs), and industry consortia.
• Advanced technical degree (e.g., Electrical Engineering, Computer Science) is a strong plus.