Head of Support to the Boards of Appeal/Registrar

in Directorate Legal Research and Administration
Munich (Germany)

Directorate Legal research and Administration has a vacancy for the Head of Support to the Boards of Appeal/Registrar. This official reports directly to the Director, the latter to the Vice-President Appeals.

The appointee will be responsible for the management of the registry services to the Boards of Appeal. The main task is to ensure that these services are operated and maintained skilfully and professionally, so that the Boards of Appeal can perform their duties in optimal conditions.

Main duties

• Management of a team of over 30 Registry staff, comprising work organisation, professional development and staff reporting
• Supporting and advising Registry staff in administrative matters
• Acting as Registrar where required
• Management of projects within the department relating to automation, professional development and quality improvement
• Close liaising with the Chairmen and Members of the Boards of Appeal on the registry work provided
• Close cooperation with the Legal Research and the Automation Support departments.
• Member of the Legal research and Administration management team
• Participation or representation of Directorate General Appeals in panels and committees within the EPO

The ideal candidate will have

• Proven management experience
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Well developed knowledge of judicial procedures and practical experience with registry support to courts
• Strong organisational skills
• Ability to work with precision
• Willingness to take responsibility and initiative
• Intercultural understanding, international experience (especially in working with staff from different countries) and experience with project work

Minimum qualifications

Diploma of completed studies at university level or - in exceptional cases - equivalent professional experience. Excellent knowledge of one official language and ability to understand the other two.

Selection procedure

The successful candidate will be selected on the basis of qualifications, supplemented by an interview and possibly tests.

Please apply online, using the online application form, reference number INT/EXT/5217. .
Closing date: 07.03.2012

As the second largest European organisation, the European Patent Office offers a competitive salary, excellent social benefits and varied work in a modern international environment.

More information on www.epo.org/vacancies