FB Rice has appointed two new Partners and a Special Counsel – Head of Japanese Relations
The partners of FB Rice are thrilled to announce the elevation of two new Partners in our biotechnology group and a Special Counsel in our engineering group across our Sydney and Melbourne offices. This recognition is effective 1 July 2022.
In recognising the importance of career development and performance recognition, we’re pleased to announce the elevation of two new Partners, and a Special Counsel – Head of Japanese Relations.
Meet our newly appointed Partners and Special Counsel
Karin Innes | Partner
Karin Innes is a new partner in our Melbourne biotechnology team. With over 20 years experience in the profession, she supports her academic and industry clients by providing drafting, prosecution, and strategic advice. She has a successful track record in patent opposition matters and Patent Office hearings, having represented Ganymed Pharmaceuticals in the patent prosecution case before the IP Office of New Zealand which resulted in FB Rice winning the ‘New Zealand Impact Case of the Year’ at the Managing IP APAC Awards 2022. She has also been endorsed in the IAM Patent 1000 recommended list for patent prosecution for the past three years. She is a member of the Trans-Tasman IP attorneys board (TTIPAB), on the advisory board of a start-up in women’s health and a member of the Melanoma Research Victoria governance committee.
“I’m looking forward to taking on the responsibilities that come with the role and continuing to support the needs of my clients.”
– Karin Innes, Partner.
Lee Miles | Partner
Lee Miles is a new partner in our Sydney biotechnology team. Throughout his 11 years of experience in the profession, he has assisted clients in a range of technology areas including genetics and genomics, RNA interference, gene editing, cloning and expression, antibodies and immunology, gene therapy, diagnostics, vaccine development and plant and animal breeding. His varied technical experience means that he is well-positioned to assist clients in a range of sectors within the life science space. However, he has a particular interest in the AgTech sector, including plant breeder's rights. Lee’s commitment to the success of his clients has been acknowledged by Managing IP, having been listed as a Rising Star consecutively for the past four years.
“I’m excited to join the FB Rice partnership and humbled by recognition and trust that goes with this role. Thank you to the amazing team at FB Rice and to our brilliant clients which make it all possible.”
– Lee Miles, Partner.
David Lee | Special Counsel – Head of Japanese Relations
David Lee has been appointed as special counsel in our Sydney engineering team to lead our Japanese relations. In his 27-year career, David has worked on a diverse range of technologies including domestic appliances, metals and alloys, pipes and connectors, air conditioning systems, packaging and moulded articles, and building, construction and mining-related technologies. David has a strong focus on Japan where he lived for 15 years; ten of which were spent working for a large Japanese patent firm. He has a good understanding of Japanese patent law and practice. David regularly visits Japan and is heavily invested in building and maintaining relationships with our Japanese clients and associates.
“I am delighted to receive this recognition. I have been heavily involved in maintaining relationships with and providing support to the firm’s Japanese clients. I enjoy that work and look forward to building on it in the new role.”
– David Lee, Special Counsel – Head of Japanese Relations.
FB Rice has appointed two Associates and two Paralegals, effective 1 July 2022.
About FB Rice
At FB Rice client experience is at the forefront of what we do. Our dedication to providing clients with the highest standard of service while working with them as equal partners has resulted in us winning ‘Best Specialist IP and Related Services Firm’, 'Best CX Firm: Specialist IP & Related Services', and 'Most Innovative Specialist IP & Related Services Firm' at the recent Client Choice Awards 2022.
As Australia’s most trusted intellectual property firm, we combine world-leading expertise across biotechnology, chemistry, computer and electrical sciences, engineering and medical technology with integrity and determination to help clients achieve their goals.
We pride ourselves on our expertise and our ability to make our clients feel comfortable and respected at every stage of the process. We’re real people who build partnerships based on trust by being open, approachable and totally focused on clients’ needs.
At FB Rice, we champion innovation and create value.