Welcome to the latest instalment of Managing IP’s ‘Five minutes with’ series, where we learn more about IP practitioners on a personal as well as a professional level. This time we have Kelly McManus, director of client relations at intellectual property management company Computer Packages Inc (CPI) in the US.
Talk us through a typical working day.
Since we have several European offices, I start most days catching up on emails. All of our client-facing representatives share their experiences and challenges from the day, so it’s a nice way for me to receive feedback on our products and services from a variety of clients’ perspectives.
There’s also usually a mix of meetings – some with our internal teams to discuss product development or client strategies, and others with clients to ensure there are no issues and that our IP management solutions are successfully supporting their needs.
What are you working on at the moment?
I’m focusing on promoting our new IP Approval Workflow. We've refined the software features based on client feedback and are working on a campaign to introduce these updates to a broader audience. Our goal is for organisations to utilise our IP Approval Workflow to increase efficiency in all aspects of the IP process – from freedom to operate searches, trademark clearances, and disclosure submissions to patent annuities and trademark renewals.
Does one big piece of work usually take priority, or are you juggling multiple things?
It’s a bit of both. There are always big projects that require a lot of focus, like a software launch or new employee training.
However, I’m also consistently overseeing our existing client relationships, ensuring that their IP assets are managed efficiently and that they’re getting the most out of our services.
What is the most exciting aspect of your role, and what is the most stressful?
The most exciting part is seeing the impact our solutions have on clients. When they tell us how much easier their work has become or how much they love our new features, it’s incredibly rewarding.
On the flip side, the most stressful aspect is probably educating the public about our new products and features and the advantages they offer. CPI has been serving the IP community since 1968, so there are some people out there who are only familiar with our older products.
We’ve actually expanded our product suite significantly in the past several years. Our latest software includes cutting-edge features and the latest technology.
Tell us the key characteristics that make a successful IP lawyer/practitioner.
A successful IP lawyer needs strong analytical skills to interpret and apply IP laws effectively. However, adaptability and an open mindset are equally important, as the IP landscape is always evolving.
What is the most common misconception about IP?
Well, prior to ‘Shark Tank’ [a TV show where entrepreneurs attempt to secure financial backing] I’d say one of the biggest misconceptions was that IP is only relevant to large corporations or tech companies. In reality, IP is vital for businesses of all sizes across various industries.
What or who inspires you?
The founder of CPI, Jerry Van Winter. I was fortunate to train under him when I first started at CPI over 12 years ago. I was impressed at his dedication to the industry, his employees, and the customers. He was intelligent, innovative, humorous, and empathetic. I’m so thankful he spent the time passing on his knowledge and experience to every employee he hired. It’s one of the key reasons why CPI has remained one of the most trusted and experienced IP service vendors, even after his passing.
If you weren’t in IP, what would you be doing?
Working with autistic children. My youngest daughter was diagnosed with autism when she was two years old. She’s been in intensive therapy ever since. It has been incredible watching her progress day by day. Her therapists have truly brought out her intelligence, humor, and caring nature. I’m so proud and very grateful.
Any advice you would give your younger self?
Be your true self, but the best self you can be. Everything else will fall into place.
What is your motto in life?
Always try your best. You will learn from your mistakes but if you don’t put your best foot forward, you’re only delaying success.
