Careers in Ideas Summer of IP 2026 - Marks & Clerk IP Insights Afternoon

Last month, as part of Careers in Ideas Summer of IP 2026, we welcomed aspiring IP professionals to two Insight Afternoons in London and Manchester, giving attendees an opportunity to learn more about careers in IP and life at Marks & Clerk. The events brought together university students, recent graduates and career changers interested in exploring opportunities as patent attorneys, trade mark attorneys and support roles. Through a series of presentations, attendees gained an overview of the IP profession, hearing first-hand experiences from colleagues across M&C, the routes into qualifying as a patent or trade mark attorney, and the variety of support function roles.

A key highlight of the afternoons was the opportunity for guests to hear first-hand experiences from colleagues across M&C. Over 60 attendees also took part in Q&A sessions and informal networking, allowing them to ask questions about career paths, day-to-day work and the skills needed to succeed in IP.

Lara Sibley (EDI Oversight Partner) said:

These Insight events are an important part of widening access to careers in IP and helping people to understand the many different routes into our profession. We want talented individuals from all backgrounds to recognise IP as a profession where they can succeed and build a fulfilling career. It was fantastic to see so many engaged and enthusiastic attendees, and we hope the events have inspired participants to explore the opportunities available within the IP sector.

As part of our ongoing commitment to attracting diverse talent to the profession, we look forward to building on the success of these events and continuing to create opportunities for people to learn more about careers in IP.

We asked our team and our guests what they thought about the day:

Learning that the founders of the firm knew Thomas Edison is quite a nice full circle moment for the sector.

Watch the full video above to find out what more they had to say about the sessions.

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