Counsel, Global Patents

Job Description

Location: Glenview & Chicago / AON – Hybrid

Reports to: Chief Counsel, Global Patents & Innovation

This position is part of Kraft Heinz’s Legal Department and provides legal counsel to the R&D organization to ensure current and future innovations are appropriately protected. This position reports to Kraft Heinz’s Chief Counsel, Global Patents & Innovation, and is expected to bring expertise in patent preparation and prosecution, freedom‑to‑operate analysis, intellectual property protection strategy, trade secrets, and R&D agreements.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary legal resource for designated business units and technology areas within R&D.
• Advise R&D on intellectual property protection strategies, including patent preparation, prosecution decisions, portfolio development, and risk assessment.
• Drive strategic patent filing decisions aligned with innovation roadmaps and business priorities.
• Draft, review, and negotiate R&D-related agreements, including non-disclosure, material transfer, joint development, and license agreements.
• Advise on the appropriate structure and use of R&D agreements to protect IP ownership, exclusivity, and trade secrets.
• Conduct and advise on freedom‑to‑operate reviews for new technologies and products entering the market.
• Develop and deliver intellectual property–related training for R&D and other internal stakeholders.
• Manage and oversee outside counsel to ensure quality and cost‑effective legal support.
• Support compliance with company policies related to signatory authority, ethics, and trade secret protection.
• Occasional travel may be required.

Key Interactions

This role partners closely with the R&D organization, business leaders, and other attorneys within the Legal Department to support innovation, external collaboration, and commercialization efforts. This role also interacts with outside counsel and external partners as needed.

Recipe for Success:

• Juris Doctor from an accredited law school with strong academic credentials and specialized patent experience.
• Registered to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
• Science or technology background in chemistry, biology, engineering, or a related field.
• 8+ years of legal experience with in-house experience preferred.
• Experience evaluating and advising on the patentability of AI and software related innovations preferred.
• Experience preparing and prosecuting chemical and packaging‑related patent applications.
• Experience advising R&D on patent prosecution strategy, risks, and portfolio development.
• Experience negotiating R&D agreements and advising on their appropriate use.
• Experience conducting freedom‑to‑operate analyses and assessing third‑party patent risk.
• Ability to work independently, assess risk, and deliver practical, business‑focused solutions.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage competing priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Positive, collaborative approach with the ability to work effectively across all levels of the organization.
• Demonstrated ability to manage outside counsel effectively.

Our Total Rewards philosophy is to provide a meaningful and flexible spectrum of programs that equitably support our diverse workforce and their families and complement Kraft Heinz’ strategy and values.

New Hire Base Salary Range:

$141,500.00 - $176,900.00

Bonus: This position is eligible for a performance-based bonus as provided by the plan terms and governing documents.

The compensation offered will take into account internal equity and may vary depending on the candidate's geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors

Benefits: Coverage for employees (and their eligible dependents) through affordable access to healthcare, protection, and saving for the future, we offer plans tailored to meet you and your family’s needs. Coverage for benefits will be in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans and associated governing plan documents.

Wellbeing: We offer events, resources, and learning opportunities that inspire a physical, social, emotional, and financial well-being lifestyle for our employees and their families.

You’ll be able to participate in a variety of benefits and wellbeing programs that may vary by role, country, region, union status, and other employment status factors, for example:

• Physical - Medical, Prescription Drug, Dental, Vision, Screenings/Assessments

• Social - Paid Time Off, Company Holidays, Leave of Absence, Flexible Work Arrangements, Recognition, Training

• Emotional – Employee Assistance Program , Wellbeing Programs, Family Support Programs

• Financial – 401k, Life, Accidental Death & Dismemberment, Disability

Location(s)

Glenview R&D Center

Kraft Heinz is an Equal Opportunity Employer – Underrepresented Ethnic Minority Groups/Women/Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity and other protected classes. In order to ensure reasonable accommodation for protected individuals, applicants that require accommodation in the job application process may contact NAZTAOps@kraftheinz.com for assistance.