EIP hires partner Gareth Probert to strengthen medtech and healthcare practice

EIP today announces the appointment of partner Gareth Probert from HGF where he was head of the firm’s Nottingham office.

Gareth has spent more than 20 years in the IP profession with 10 years in senior roles including partner and head of the medtech group at Potter Clarkson. Gareth joined EIP on 3 February and is based in the London office where he will play a key role in developing the life sciences practice.

Gareth is highly skilled in contentious IP having represented clients in more than 250 Opposition and Appeal hearings at the European Patent Office. He has a track record of success in high-value difficult cases, including in several oppositions which were carried out in conjunction with parallel litigation proceedings.

He has achieved success in commercially significant opposition cases for clients including AstraZeneca, Novo Nordisk and Edwards Lifesciences. Within the medtech and healthcare industry Gareth has substantial experience in the FMCG, formulation, peptide, food and chemical sectors.

Gareth Probert, partner at EIP, said:

“I am excited to be joining EIP at such a significant milestone in the firm’s history as it approaches its 20th anniversary. EIP’s combined patent and litigation offering has long been a point of difference and I believe provides an attractive proposition for many companies in the medtech and life sciences sectors. I’m looking forward to helping shape the future development of EIP in these areas.”

Heather McCann, partner at EIP, said:

“Gareth has an impressive track record and expertise in the life sciences sector, having advised and represented a number of significant pharma companies, in particular with regards to their opposition and appeal strategies before the EPO. This is an exciting new development for EIP and I am thrilled he has decided to join us. Gareth will be at the forefront of our growth in this area.”