At IPH, we are committed to uplifting women through all parts of our business. This sentiment is echoed through the number of strong female leaders across our member firms, investing in women today, and every day. This International Women's Day, we've asked three women in senior positions across the group to reflect on their careers to date, discuss the value of investing in women, and provide a key piece of advice for female industry leaders of the future.
Catherine Bergeron is a Principal at leading Canadian firm, ROBIC with over 20 years of experience, who specialises in trade mark prosecution, litigation and the strategic management of trade mark portfolios. She is a member of multiple Canadian and international IP associations and has been recognised in over ten industry publications, setting her apart as a powerhouse in Canadian trade mark law.
What is your proudest work achievement?
My proudest professional achievement to date is the recognition of my peers as being an expert in Canadian trade mark law. It is extremely rewarding and motivating for me that my expertise and know-how shine outside my firm. When I started practicing in this field over 20 years ago, I was looking at experts as role models and mentors (and still do!), and today I have the privilege and great pride of saying that I myself have become a reference in Canadian trade mark law, recognized by my peers in Canada and also by many associates in our international network.
This year's theme is "Count Her In: Invest in Women. Accelerate Progress". Why do you think it's important that we invest in women?
Investing in women is important for many reasons, which go way beyond gender equality (which should be the norm everywhere including in workplaces). One of these reasons is to foster innovation and creativity through women’s different experiences, visions and perspectives. Workforce diversity, including women in leadership roles, will generate a positive ripple effect for women (and everyone!), for better performance and a healthier business. I truly believe that female leaders and entrepreneurs, as part of an inclusive and diverse framework, lead to increased productivity, enhanced innovation, better decision-makings and healthy development of tomorrow’s workforce.
What would your advice be for young women starting in the workforce today?
Trust yourself and express yourself! Working rigorously, learning from your mistakes and always wanting to improve your skills are key elements when starting a career, but trusting yourself and expressing your ideas are just as important. Confidence comes with experience, of course, but young women who are learning about their future careers should not hesitate to trust their judgment and their ability to learn, and to speak up and express their ideas. Professionals who are well established in their careers also have a lot to learn from the point of view of young women.
Charis Lam is a Principal at Spruson & Ferguson, and is qualified as a solicitor in Hong Kong. She is experienced in trade mark prosecution, protection and enforcement in Hong Kong, China and other Asian regions, alongside a number of other practices across trade mark law including portfolio management and opposition. She has seen success assisting clients across a number of industries, particularly luxury goods, food and beverages, and practices in English, Mandarin and Cantonese.
What is your proudest work achievement?
As trade mark practitioners, we often find ourselves dividing our attention between several different tasks simultaneously, while also observing laws in different global jurisdictions. When reflecting on my proudest work achievement to date, the time I advocated in a hearing for a client that resulted in the cancellation of a squatter’s trade mark registration stands out. Strategically, the case was particularly challenging, and the client decided to cancel the squatter's mark based on non-use.
Initially, our client was not in a strong position as the registrant was able to provide evidence targeting the goods covered under the registration. Discrediting the evidence required substantial effort to closely scrutinise the evidence and fine print for discrepancies. We also conducted research to find precedents that would support our case. By meticulously challenging every piece of evidence submitted by the skilful and sneaky squatter, we managed to turn the tables and our client was then able to recover some of their legal costs - putting an end to a 4-year long battle. Nothing gives me greater pleasure than being able to help our clients, especially when turning a unfavourable position around. Winning cases not only brings us a sense of reward, but it also allows us to assist our clients in achieving their goals. They witness the efforts we put into their cases and appreciate our suggestions and strategies, which helps build trust and rapport. As a result, we often receive referrals based on the positive experience they have had working with us.
This year's theme is "Count Her In: Invest in Women. Accelerate Progress". Why do you think it's important that we invest in women?
For a start, gender diversity leads to a more inclusive workplace that fosters a diverse range of problem-solving strategies and innovative ideas; enhances team productivity, client satisfaction and ultimately drives financial growth. Numerous studies have shown a positive correlation between gender diversity at executive level and profitability. A diverse workplace is one of the keys to a success and sustainable business, and ensuring that women have equal opportunities, rights, and representation also helps attract and retain talent that bring valuable expertise, leadership and adaptability. Investing in women and their professional growth to reach their potential helps businesses to unlock the full potential of their workforce, drive innovation, and gain a competitive edge in the marketplace.
What would your advice be for young women starting in the workforce today?
To navigate the professional world successfully, my advice to young women embarking on their careers is to be proactive, prepared, and stay positive.
- Be Proactive: Take initiative, seek out opportunities, and actively participate in career development programs. Don't be afraid to voice your ideas, raise questions and contribute to discussions.
- Always be prepared: Stay informed, continuously learn, and update your skills. Be prepared to adapt to changes in the workplace and seize new opportunities.
- Stay Positive: Cultivate a positive mindset, embrace challenges as learning experiences, and believe in your abilities. Surround yourself with supportive mentors and peers who uplift and inspire you.
As we celebrate International Women's Day, let us remember the importance of investing in women and promoting gender equality. Together, we build a world where women thrive and contribute their full potential to the workforce and beyond.
Several women across the group have also shared their best pieces of advice to women starting in the intellectual property industry today. Check out the video series below.