She has extensive experience with managing a global patent portfolio (drafting and worldwide prosecution); developing patent procedures, policies and strategies; advising on valorization of inventions; providing opinions regarding validity of patent rights, freedom to operate, infringement and litigation; filing and handling oppositions; advising on and negotiating IP agreements; providing IP due diligence and general strategic and legal advice in IP matters and raising IP awareness amongst technical and commercial communities.

Annemie also frequently and for many years already lectures at various KVIV/CEIPI patent courses. In January 2018 she joined V.O. where she is active as patent attorney in the Chemistry and Life Science Department, in the Leuven (Belgium) office.

Working experience

• Patent Attorney V.O. (2018 -present)
• Managing IP Attorney – Huntsman Europe (2005-2017)
• Senior Patent Attorney – Huntsman Europe (1992-2005)
• (Trainee) Patent Attorney – Agfa-Gevaert (1986-1992)

Education

• PhD Science – Chemistry – Laboratory of Photochemistry and Spectroscopy – KU Leuven (1986)
• Master of Science – Organic Chemistry – KU Leuven (1982)

Directories

• “Armed with a deep understanding of chemical technology and three decades of in-house experience, Annemie Swinnen has a keen insight into the minds of her patrons and can anticipate and meet needs swiftly. She is also highly skilled at opposition work, and manages global portfolios with a deft touch” (IAM Patent 1000, 2023)
• Recommended Individual (IAM Patent 1000, 2022, 2023).

Languages

• Dutch
• English