Working at IP-Safe
We have written a few words about our workplace below — and what we strive for, and what we don’t. We hope you find them helpful and insightful.
Creating a workspace with employees and the IP paralegal role in mind
The role of an IP paralegal is in many aspect defined by the need for precision and responsibility. It often involves managing important matters, keeping track of deadlines, and ensuring that details are handled correctly — often with a high degree of independence. At IP-Safe, we are very aware of this. It's both empowering and exciting, and, sometimes, a source of stress.
At IP-Safe, we not only take our work seriously, but also our employees. We actively work on how we take the experience of the IP administrative work from the employees point of view into account in how we plan, organise, and structure our daily work.
Autonomy and trust are central to how we work. In our experience, our IP paralegals thrive when they are able to take ownership and give them the freedom to organise their workday in a way that makes sense.
At the same time, no one should feel left alone, help should always be near and we try to pay close attention to how workloads develop.
IP administration naturally has its peaks and quieter periods. Rather than treating that as an exception, we have decided to try and plan for it. We're not perfect and probably will never be. But we want to be mindfuld about it. Through helpful structures and flexible team work that does not steal autonomy and independence.
You work independently at IP-Safe — but not in isolation. Help and collaboration is available when it is needed, and knowledge-sharing is part of the culture. Without turning everyday work into unnecessary coordination or meetings.
Where IP administration is not a support function
At IP-Safe, IP administration isn't a support function; it's our core focus —with benefits for both clients and employees.
Interviewed in this article, from the left: Camilla Outtrup, Stine Nørgaard Axelsen and Line Lehm Sletten
In the heart of Copenhagen, right by the Central Station, lies the office of IP-Safe. While the city is buzzing outside, the vibe inside is calm and relaxed. Here, our employees have many decades of combined experience within IP management — from patent and trademark agencies to corporate in-house IP departments.
However, IP-Safe is a bit different:
If you were to mention just one thing, it is perhaps that here, IP administration is not a support function; it's the core focus. And because IP-Safe works with all types of clients, IP administration is performed in all its different forms at any day of the week.
As Line Lehm Sletten, the most recent member of the IP-Safe team, remarks, "Working at IP-Safe means that IP administration is the heart of our operations. This focus allows us to hone our skills and deliver flexible solutions and exceptional service."
Opportunities for Professional Growth
Since its inception in 2016, IP-Safe has encouraged its employees to pursue professional growth actively, whether this involves obtaining certifications, taking part in our business development, or being an active member of the IP community.
Stine Nørgaard Axelsen, who has been with IP-Safe since 2018, embodies this spirit. She shares, "IP-Safe encourages us to engage in the broader IP community. In 2021, I was chosen to represent EPIPA in overseeing a new certification for IP paralegals through the EUIPO's Education Programme. This adds a nice variety to daily work life, which already contains a lot more variation than the typical IP administrator is probably used to"
Flexibility and collaborative spirit
Camilla Outtrup, partner at IP-Safe, adds that, to her, fostering a friendly, relaxed and supportive atmosphere is a top priority:
“We put a lot of trust in our team members, who work with a high level of independence and flexibility, including options to work from home. However, it is equally important to us that we are always available to help one another; answers and input should never be further away than a walk across the hall or a quick phone call. We thrive on a collaborative spirit, which also means that we constantly learn from each other, improving our collective expertise and service quality.”
Coffee is always brewing
Our office, located literally on top of Copenhagen Central Station, provides easy access to the vibrant city life of Copenhagen. Despite the hustle and bustle outside, the vibe inside our office is calm and relaxed. Furthermore, our door is always open, and our coffee machine is almost always brewing. So whether you are a curious IP professional - or a company curious to learn more about our services - don’t hesitate to stop by.