The Business Exchange Bath & Somerset Issue 12: Summer 2019 | Page 21

SOUTH WEST ARM OF IP INCLUSIVE ESTABLISHED A new chapter of an organisation which aims to promote inclusivity in the intellectual property sector has been set up in the South West. IP inclusive’s new South West chapter brings together intellectual property (IP) lawyers, trademark and patent attorneys and others to address topical issues affecting the industry. The committee comprises Bath and Bristol-based IP professionals Megan Jefferies, partner at Thrings, Rachel Jones, senior associate at Mewburn Ellis, Fiona McBride, partner at Withers & Rogers, Jim Pearson, partner at Abel & Imray, Caroline Day and Susan Gregory, partner and Head of HR respectively, at Haseltine Lake Kempner. Founded in 2015, IP Inclusive is a national organisation working to make the intellectual property (IP) field more welcoming, accessible, and supportive. Megan Jefferies, of Thrings, said, “Hundreds of IP professionals operate in the South West, with a significant proportion of these being women, ethnic minorities, LGBT+ or a combination of these. We’re delighted to be bringing these communities and their allies together in a bid to make the profession more inclusive and provide a rewarding career path for its members.” IP Inclusive’s main activities fall under three key groups: IP & ME, focused on overcoming challenges faced by ethnic minority professionals; IP Out, addressing LGBT+ issues; and Women in IP, tackling matters predominantly affecting female IP professionals. More than 130 organisations are already signatories of IP Inclusive’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Charter, including major employers such as IBM and Dyson. Abel & Imray will be hosting a mental health-focused gathering at Mewburn Ellis in June. Speakers are expected from the UKIPO and Jonathan’s Voice. Megan added,“Whatever your gender, sexual orientation, and whether you’re part of a minority group or not, we welcome you to join our events and play your part in supporting a more inclusive IP profession in the South West.” For further information on IP Inclusive’s South West committee, or to join the event mailing list, please contact [email protected]. “Whatever your gender, sexual orientation, and whether you’re part of a minority group or not, we welcome you to join our events and play your part in supporting a more inclusive IP profession in the South West.” A ‘green shoots’ workplace law practice We’re supporting business start-ups through to established prominent employers. Our expertise in employment law supports growth, stability and employee well-being at work. Why instruct us? • A broad, yet detailed vision of workplace issues and relations - we are true experts • Support from an experienced employment lawyer • Access to our expertise outside office hours • No charge for initial consultation - our fees are also reasonable 4 Queen Street Bath, BA1 1HE • 24/7 access to information about your case 01225 904689 • Strength when you need it, and formidable disputes experience to protect you • Employment Lawyers www.gryphonblack.com [email protected] No ivory towers - just a different set of values to benefit clients Also at Chancery Lane (London), Canary Wharf (London), Windsor, Cheltenham, Exeter THE BUSINESS EXCHANGE 2019 21