Edmund Lobb – The Art of Balancing Commercial and Patent Strategy
Edmund Lobb, UK and European Patent Attorney, characterises his profession as one of problem-solving in the area between law and technology. By understanding both his clients’ technology and commercial goals, he can guide them through the patent process in a tailored manner.
As Brexit was approaching, Edmund Lobb took the opportunity to try living and working in another EU country. After discussions with firms in several European countries, he ultimately chose Sweden after conversations with Ström & Gulliksson.
Ed enjoys the lifestyle and scenery so much that he is still in Sweden five years later. He lives in central Stockholm with his dog and enjoys taking jet ski trips into the archipelago.
“In Sweden, you are not expected to work all hours of the day, so you have time to pause and enjoy life. That is important and gives me energy to bring to my work. Ultimately, I perform better,” says Ed.
Problem Solving
Ed sees his job as one of problem solving.
“My task is to help companies navigate through the patent process while simultaneously aligning the patent strategy with their commercial goals. This can mean balancing different interests when handling patent applications”
A thorough understanding of all aspects is key.
“Commercial strategy and patent strategy go hand in hand. The more we know, the better we can formulate the patent application.” Questions he asks when in contact with a new client include: How do they differentiate themselves from competitors in the same industry? How fast is the industry developing? Are they seeking investors? Are they working towards licensing?”
Specialty in Software
During his education at Imperial College London, Ed’s specialty was aeronautical engineering, but he did not want to continue in academia or follow the path into industry. The combination of technology and law instead led him to opt for the role of patent attorney.
“It is a nice context to be in. Every day looks different with a wide variety of clients and inventions,” says Ed.
Ed’s practice focuses mainly on computer-implemented inventions, including artificial intelligence (AI), but he also has expertise in aerospace, mechanics, and other technical areas.
International Perspective
Before Ed started at Ström & Gulliksson, he worked for six years as a patent attorney at a firm in London. His international perspective is something that benefits his current clients. Having English as his mother tongue also comes in handy for the firm’s global communications.
Besides his colleagues at Ström & Gulliksson, Ed also works closely with the firm’s contacts around the world. Just as Ström & Gulliksson is their representative in Europe, Ed has the help of overseas attorneys when clients need advice in other jurisdictions.
“You get to know different agents quite well through working on cases together. It is nice to build these relationships, and even meet occasionally on trips and at conferences.”
Christian Arkelius, Partner and head of Stockholm office about Ed:
“Bringing Ed on board was a strategic move that has greatly benefited many of our clients. With a robust education in patent law spanning both European and British jurisdictions, he not only excels in managing patent applications at various patent offices but also demonstrates a remarkable proficiency in handling patent litigation in court. Since his first day with us, Ed has proven himself to be an invaluable asset to our team, not only due to his extensive knowledge and expertise but also because of his outstanding personality.”
AIPPI World Congress
Ed will be attending the AIPPI World Congress in Istanbul, 22-25 October 2023, along with Fredrik Carlsson. If you will also be attending and would be interested in meeting Ed and Fredrik, please get in touch.