Hogan Lovells announces Bob Underwood as new Practice Area Leader for IP Americas

Hogan Lovells announces Bob Underwood as new Practice Area Leader for IP Americas

Press releases | 30 January 2025

Boston, January 30, 2025 – Hogan Lovells has announced the appointment of Robert (Bob) Underwood as the new Practice Area Leader for Intellectual Property (IP) in the Americas, succeeding Celine Crowson. Underwood will oversee the firm’s strategy for IP in the region, drawing on his vast experience in advising companies on IP rights to support broader business and market goals.

Janice Hogan, the Practice Group Leader for the firm's Global Regulatory & IP practice, said, "I am delighted that Bob has accepted this new role. He has been an outstanding member of our globally recognized IP practice, and he will be a tremendous asset to our global leadership team moving forward."

Underwood draws on his in-depth experience establishing U.S. and international intellectual property rights and identifying and evaluating third-party IP risks to help his clients achieve their business objectives. His clients range from startups to mature multinationals, nonprofits, and universities, as well as venture capital and private equity investors.

"We are thrilled to announce Bob's appointment,” said Miriam Gundt, Global Managing Partner – IP Practice. “Bob's experience and strategic vision will be crucial in overseeing our firm's regional strategy and we look forward to the significant contributions he will bring to our practice."

Underwood focuses his practice on the life sciences and chemical industries. He has recognized expertise as a strategic IP advisor experienced in life cycle management, pre-litigation planning and contentious matters, including patent interferences and oppositions, and is often called upon to provide strategic counseling to clients on patent portfolio development and management, patent prosecution and to provide due diligence and IP advisory service to strategic and financial investors. He also guides clients through transactions and agreements that involve IP rights, including joint development agreements, sponsored research agreements, licenses, and corporate transactions.

Underwood commented, "I am honored to take on this new role as we continue building on the strong foundation established by Celine. Her dedication and vision have been instrumental in shaping our IP practice in the Americas. Hogan Lovells has one of the leading IP practices globally and I look forward to leading our talented team to continue to build on this legacy."

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