Senior IP Counsel

The world of finance moves fast. At FIS, we’re faster. Our teams are empowered to learn, grow, and make an impact–in their careers and communities. We deliver innovation that advances the way the world pays, banks and invests. If you want to grow personally and professionally, we’d like to know: Are you FIS?

About the role

In this Senior IP Counsel role, you will manage complex legal matters to protect FIS’ intellectual property assets, with an expanded leadership focus on patent strategy , IP Litigation and Disputes , patent portfolio development , and the rapidly evolving domain of AI law and governance . You will partner closely with business leaders, technologists, and product teams to guide innovation pathways, ensuring alignment between business objectives, patent filings, and responsible AI practices.

Your core responsibilities will include leading patent prosecution strategy; identifying high‑value innovations; and advising on AI‑related risk, compliance, data governance, and other legal considerations. You will also continue to support the business on traditional IP matters, including software licensing, open-source use, trade secrets, and related litigation.

About the team

The FIS Legal team consists of approximately 200 attorneys and paraprofessionals worldwide who collaborate closely with business units to advance enterprise goals. We work pragmatically and efficiently, providing actionable legal guidance to support innovation, operational execution, and sound governance practices.

What you will be doing

Patent Strategy & Prosecution Leadership

• Direct, lead and refine the company’s patent strategy , ensuring alignment between innovation priorities and filing decisions.
• Identify patentable inventions through close collaboration with engineering, R&D, data science, and product teams.
• Lead and oversee partnerships with outside counsel for drafting, filing, and prosecuting patent applications .
• Build and manage a strategic patent portfolio covering emerging technologies—including AI, machine learning, and advanced software platforms.

Litigation and Disputes

• Lead and oversee intellectual property litigation and disputes.

AI Law & Governance

• Advise on AI intellectual property issues , governance structures, risk assessments, and documentation.
• Provide legal oversight on responsible AI practices, including data usage, algorithmic risk, model audits, and safety evaluations.
• Counsel product teams on integrating AI technologies in a compliant, responsible manner aligned with global legal and ethical standards.

General Intellectual Property Responsibilities

• Counsel on issues involving patents , trade secrets , copyrights, open-source software , and software licensing , and related litigation.
• Conduct legal research and analysis on emerging IP and AI legal issues, trends, and regulatory developments.
• Provide practical, solution-driven legal advice to executives and business colleagues.
• Support complex, cross-functional initiatives in a fast-paced, global environment.

Required Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (or equivalent) and admission to practice law in the relevant jurisdiction.
• Admission to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office .
• 7-15+ years of legal experience , with substantial focus on AI technology, patent prosecution and patent portfolio strategy in a law firm or in-house environment.
• Strong knowledge of U.S. and international patent laws, AI-related legal frameworks, and emerging global regulatory trends.
• Experience advising on AI/ML compliance, or responsible technology frameworks.

Preferred Qualifications

• Deep experience evaluating patentability, responding to office actions, and managing global patent filings.
• Expertise working with engineers, developers, and data scientists to translate complex innovations into protectable IP.
• Strong communication, writing, and analytical skills.
• Ability to independently manage multiple complex matters and drive projects to completion in a dynamic environment.
• Experience counseling leadership within a large, matrixed organization.

What we offer you

At FIS, we hire the best. In return, you receive exceptional benefits including

• Opportunities to innovate in fintech
• Tools for personal and professional growth
• Inclusive and diverse work environment
• Resources to invest in your community
• Competitive salary and benefits

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