Chanel Senior Legal Counsel, Intellectual Property

About Chanel

Chanel is one of the world’s most revered luxury houses, founded by Gabrielle Chanel and distinguished by an enduring vision of elegance, freedom, and modernity. As an employer, the House brings together métiers ranging from haute couture, fashion and leather goods to fragrance, beauty, watches, and fine jewelry, offering employees the opportunity to contribute to a legacy defined by exceptional craftsmanship and creative audacity. Chanel values excellence, discretion, collaboration, and long-term development, fostering an environment where talent is nurtured and heritage is continually reinterpreted for contemporary clients. Its teams are united by a commitment to quality, innovation, and the timeless spirit of the brand.

Role & Responsibilities

• Provide senior legal counsel on intellectual property matters, including trademark registration, patent prosecution, and copyright protection across multiple jurisdictions
• Develop and implement IP enforcement strategies to combat counterfeiting and unauthorized use of Chanel brand assets and intellectual property
• Advise on IP-related aspects of business transactions, including acquisitions, licensing agreements, and strategic partnerships
• Oversee litigation strategy and coordinate with external counsel on IP disputes and enforcement actions
• Ensure compliance with evolving international intellectual property laws and regulations
• Mentor and supervise junior legal staff within the IP department
• Collaborate with marketing, product development, and retail teams to identify and protect new intellectual property

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) or equivalent legal qualification in intellectual property law
• Admission to the bar in France or equivalent professional legal qualification
• Minimum 10 years of experience in intellectual property law, with substantial experience in trademark and patent matters
• Demonstrated expertise in IP enforcement, anti-counterfeiting, and brand protection strategies
• Experience with multi-jurisdictional IP matters and international licensing
• Strong knowledge of French, European, and international intellectual property frameworks

Skills

Experience

Minimum 10 years of professional experience in intellectual property law, with substantial exposure to trademark portfolio management, patent strategy, copyright protection, and anti-counterfeiting enforcement. Practical experience advising luxury brands, fashion companies, or multinational enterprises on complex IP matters is highly valued. Prior experience managing IP litigation or leading legal teams is advantageous.

Education

Juris Doctor (J.D.), Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Intellectual Property, or equivalent advanced legal qualification. Admission to the French bar (Ordre des Avocats) or equivalent professional accreditation required.

Workplace

Culture

Chanel fosters a culture of timeless creativity, exacting craftsmanship, and quiet excellence, where employees are encouraged to uphold the house’s heritage while contributing to its continued innovation. The workplace environment is refined, collaborative, and deeply committed to quality, offering professionals the opportunity to grow within a globally respected maison that values discretion, artistry, and long-term vision.

About Cerulean

Cerulean is the definitive career portal for the global luxury industry. We match exceptional professionals with exclusive opportunities at the world's most prestigious brands. From haute couture and fine watchmaking to prestige beauty, hospitality, and boutique retail, Cerulean centralises luxury employment to help you find the career for which you were destined.