Grace Du, staff attorney at Starbucks in China, was picked for her ability to deal with diverse intellectual property issues, including trademark clearance searches and online enforcement actions, across Chinese and global platforms.

Since joining Starbucks’ global IP team in 2018, Du has actively supported and managed the company’s extensive trademark portfolio.

Her diligent online vigilance and strong cooperation with brand protection teams at major digital platforms have led to thousands of takedowns.

According to her nominator, Du has supported her team on several complex and influential enforcement cases and become a trusted member of the Starbucks family.

It’s a privilege to work in an incredible IP team of a “grande” brand like Starbucks, Du tells Managing IP.

She adds: “I am always in growth mode with Starbucks’ global business and enjoy embracing the new challenges from ever-developing work.

“More importantly, for me, it’s a great pleasure to work in a company that holds and promotes the values I share. It's a perk for work and life.”