Counsel, IP Policy
The Entertainment Software Association (ESA), which represents the leading
U.S. publishers of computer and video games, seeks a mid-level attorney to fill
the role of Counsel, IP Policy. This position supports the organization’s
advocacy on domestic and international intellectual property matters as well as
related state law issues, such as right of publicity law. This position reports to
the Chief Counsel, IP Policy and is ideal for a candidate with at least three (3)
years of practice in intellectual property matters.
This position will work with the Chief Counsel, as well as with ESA staff and
member companies to develop industry positions on IP matters, prepare filings to
government agencies and represent the organization in multi-stakeholder
settings.
Because this role requires outreach to internal and external
stakeholders, strong interpersonal skills are paramount for any successful
candidate.
Duties and Responsibilities
Legal research and analysis
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Analyze and prepare reports on federal, state and international IP
developments.
Monitor and analyze administrative and regulatory proposals from the
Copyright Office, the Patent and Trademark Office, the U.S. Trade
Representative and other federal agencies and commissions; prepare
appropriate briefing materials for ESA staff, member companies and policy
makers.
Analyze domestic and international government and private studies on IP
issues.
Monitor developments in the area of “right of publicity” and assist in
developing consensus on industry responses.
Monitor and maintain reporting on ISP responsibility/graduated response
issues (e.g., legislation, regulations, negotiations, etc.) in markets of
primary interest to ESA member companies.
Identify and examine market access issues and barriers to entry
presented by import/export and customs laws, regulations and country
requirements.
Monitor and report on efforts to implement mandatory game ratings in
select foreign jurisdictions; work with local counsel, where appropriate, to
harmonize approach to current industry norms.
Perform research into domestic intellectual property law and trade
practices in support of legislative proposals, briefing materials.
Coordinate with ESA staff and member companies to address various
international developments beyond IP and trade.
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Preparation of filings, submissions and correspondence
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Research, prepare and review official association filings.
Research, prepare and review testimony and position papers of
association officers.
Research, prepare and review general association correspondence to
federal, state and foreign government agencies.
Review, analyze, and report on filings of other associations and entities to
discern points of commonality and differentiation.
Member company liaison function
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Work with member companies to develop consensus positions on key
issues.
Solicit member company views on relevant matters.
Synthesize member company contributions into association work product.
Update member companies on coalition developments.
Prepare regular reports on new initiatives and developments in the IP,
trade and other international policy areas.
Representation of association at meetings and functions
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Work with Chief Counsel, IP Policy to ensure full coverage of priority
meetings and functions and assist other ESA staff as needed.
Prepare reports of meetings and functions to apprise ESA staff and
member companies of significant developments and decision points.
Execution of administrative responsibilities
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Assist ESA staff in preparation of newsletters, periodic reports, board and
committee materials, and budget materials.
Research, prepare and review routine administrative correspondence to
association vendors, contractors, law firms and member companies.
Marshal flow of internal documents to assure compliance with applicable
review and approval procedures.
Education and Experience Requirements
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Law degree from an ABA accredited institution.
At least 3 years of practice in intellectual property matters.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Strong work ethic as well as strong consensus-building, organizational
and interpersonal skills.
Working knowledge of Microsoft Office, including Word and Excel.
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Working knowledge of industry products, services and practices a “plus”
factor.
ESA offers competitive salaries and bonuses, generous benefits and a
commitment to life/work balance. Our offices are located in Washington, D.C.,
just steps from the Gallery Place/Chinatown Metro stop near the Verizon Center.
If you believe you meet our requirements, please forward your resume and cover
letter for confidential review to Beth Cessna, Consulting Recruiter, at
[email protected].
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