Legal Counsel Trademark & IP (m-f-d)

Bonn, Germany (Hybrid)

Full-time

Temporary

The Scope

The Legal Counsel (Trademark & Intellectual Property) is responsible for protecting and enforcing FSC’s global trademark and intellectual property portfolio across multiple jurisdictions. The role provides clear legal guidance on trademark use, infringement, and brand protection, supporting risk mitigation and enforcement actions worldwide.
Working closely with internal teams, Network Partners, certification bodies, and external counsel, the position ensures consistent and compliant use of FSC trademarks. It also contributes to strategic initiatives related to trademark governance and intellectual property management, while monitoring relevant regulatory developments and supporting FSC’s global brand integrity.

Main Roles & Responsibilities

Lead and manage global trademark enforcement activities across multiple jurisdictions.
Investigate and address infringement, misuse, fraud, counterfeiting, and unauthorized trademark use.
Draft and negotiate enforcement-related documentation, including cease-and-desist letters and settlement agreements.
Support litigation strategies and coordinate with external legal counsel where required.
Collaborate with customs authorities, regulators, and law enforcement to combat counterfeit and fraudulent activities.
Advise on intellectual property matters, including trademarks, copyright, domain names, e-commerce, and unfair competition.
Contribute to the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of FSC’s global trademark strategy and portfolio.
Provide legal advice and business-oriented solutions to internal stakeholders, including support for licensing and contractual matters.
Deliver training and guidance to internal and external stakeholders, promoting trademark compliance and brand protection awareness.
Conduct legal research, monitor regulatory developments, and support governance improvements and strategic initiatives within the Legal Department.

Your profile

University degree in Law (LL.B., LL.M., Juris Doctor, or equivalent).
Demonstrated expertise in Intellectual Property Law, Trademark Law, and Brand Protection.
Minimum 3 years of relevant professional experience gained in
- an international law firm,
- an in-house legal department,
- intellectual property practice, or
- a brand protection environment.
Experience managing international trademark portfolios and trademark enforcement matters.
Exposure to licensing, anti-counterfeiting, customs actions, brand protection, or related legal areas is highly desirable.
Experience in the creation and negotiation of license agreements.
Experience working across multiple jurisdictions and cultures is a big advantage.

Skills & Competencies

Strong analytical thinking and legal drafting skills.
Ability to balance legal risk with practical business needs.
Excellent stakeholder and client management, communication, and influencing capabilities.
Strong project management and organizational skills.
Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within a global and multicultural environment.
Solution-oriented mindset with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
Fluency in English.
Additional language skills such as German, Spanish, French, Portuguese (Brazilian), or Chinese are highly desirable.

Why us?

Be part of a globally respected organization shaping the future of sustainable forestry.
Work with a diverse international team representing 60+ nationalities.
Join a global FSC community of over 400 forest stewards.
Enjoy meaningful professional development opportunities and continuous learning.
Live and work in Bonn, Germany — a vibrant international city and UN hub close to nature.
Benefit from 30 days of annual leave, flexible work arrangements, and a healthy work-life balance.
Relocation support available, if applicable

The Fine Print

Location: Bonn, Germany.
Working Hours: Full time - 40 hours per week.
Duration of Employment: Temporary contract - 2 years (extension possible, subject to satisfactory performance)
Starting Date: As soon as possible.

How to Apply
Ready to make a difference? Join FSC and help shape a sustainable future. Don't delay - apply now!

Please apply via our website by submitting your CV in English.
Please do not send any photos of yourself.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

For FSC, inclusiveness and diversity are important values. As such, we welcome and encourage applications from all backgrounds and are entirely committed to consider all qualified applicants regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, ethnicity, age and disability.

We will confirm receipt of your application. Should you not receive a confirmation of receipt please check your spam filter and if you cannot find it there contact us at careers@fsc.org

Please be informed, that by applying for this position you automatically accept our Data Protection Information on processing your personal data.

We are looking forward to your application!

About us

Welcome to FSC!

The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) is a globally recognized non-profit organization at the forefront of promoting sustainable forestry. With over 150 million hectares of certified forests and a trusted reputation among NGOs, consumers, and businesses, FSC is leading the way in ensuring the long-term health and resilience of the world’s forests.