In a profession known for precision and high standards, mistakes can feel catastrophic.
But what if they’re not?
This joint webinar with Jonathan’s Voice and IP Inclusive explores a powerful truth: learning happens through missteps, not perfection. And success in the IP profession is not about never getting it wrong – it’s about how we respond, reflect and grow.
With EQE season approaching, this conversation is especially timely for trainees and junior attorneys navigating pressure and performance expectations, but it is relevant at every stage of an IP career.
The session will begin with a short presentation from Donna Smith (Training & Development Lead, Jonathan’s Voice), exploring:
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How perfectionism can quietly hold us back
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The role of psychological safety and growth mindset in sustainable performance
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Practical ways individuals and firms can respond to mistakes constructively
This will be followed by a candid panel discussion with:
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Jane Wainwright
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Dr Alicia Instone
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Simon Keevey Kothari
Each will share reflections on mistakes they have made and how those moments became part of their development, not the end of their story.
Attendees will leave reassured, less alone, and more courageous – with practical insight into building a healthier, more human profession.
Meet the speakers
Simon Keevey Kothari
Simon is a Barrister in the Transactions Group at Carpmaels & Ransford LLP, assisting clients in obtaining good, valid title to IP. He has extensive experience in fixing problems with priority claims and successfully restoring inadvertently lapsed patents at IP offices around the world – advising on the best course of action at moments when things don’t go to plan. Through rescuing lapsed rights and untangling priority issues across jurisdictions, Simon brings practical lessons on what mistakes teach us – and how clarity, judgement and calm decision-making can turn setbacks into solid outcomes.
Jane Wainwright
Jane began her career at the intersection of law and science, spending nearly 25 years as a Patent Attorney in a top-tier, multi-jurisdictional IP firm – from trainee to Partner, Head of Department, Executive Board member and co-owner.
Along the way, Jane chose to lead with authenticity, vulnerability and a refreshingly human style, learning first-hand that mistakes, self-doubt and difficult seasons are often the very things that shape better leaders – a lesson she now brings to her work coaching IP and legal professionals to lead well and build careers that truly fit.
Dr Alicia Instone
Alicia is a Partner at Cleveland Scott York, a Past President of CIPA, and a dual-qualified UK and European Patent & Trade Mark Attorney.
With a career spanning complex chemical and engineering sectors, Alicia brings honest insight, resilience, and perspective to what it really takes to build a long and sustainable career in IP.
Who is it for?
IP Inclusive events are for everyone working in the IP professions – including marketing, HR, IT, paralegal, recruitment, patents, trade marks, and whatever level you are at from trainee to senior leader – *everyone* is welcome to attend.
Registration
This event is free. So are all IP Inclusive resources. That said, they do need money to keep the show on the road, so if you enjoy the event please consider contributing. For more information, visit the IP Inclusive fundraising page.
If you have any access requirements for this event, please get in touch with IP Inclusive at [email protected].
