The Trade Mark 20 Q&A: Kate O’Rourke

10th Jan 2023

Kate O’Rourke has realised that IP attracts the most fun and fascinating people.

I am… a Partner, Head of the Trade Mark Practice Group and a member of the Management Board at Mewburn Ellis LLP.

Before this role… I worked in general law firms in the UK for many years, but I started my career at FB Rice in Sydney, Australia. I also briefly worked in-house at the Ministry of Sound nightclub, which was an interesting experience.

My current state of mind is… excited, as I’ve just booked a holiday to Egypt. I’ve dreamed of seeing the pyramids ever since I did a project on Tutankhamun in primary school.

I became interested in IP… when I was at university and took a part‑time job as a trade mark searcher, which in those days involved looking at microfiche! Searchers from all the different firms met at the IPO sub-office in Sydney and I realised that IP attracted the most fun and fascinating people.

I am most inspired by… people fighting against climate change, which is threatening the way we live and the future of the planet.

In my role, I most enjoy… training and encouraging the new people joining the profession and nurturing the careers of the people with whom I work.

In my role, I most dislike… interminable video calls.

On my desk is… a photo of my son Ben at his graduation, with me as his very proud mum.

My favourite mug… has a picture of a kookaburra on it.

My favourite place to visit on business is… Sydney, as I can also catch up with family and old friends.

If I were a brand, I would be… The British Museum. I love history and learning about different cultures. (I would probably send many exhibits back to where they came from.)

The biggest challenge for IP is… to make sure that all representatives at the UK IPO are properly qualified and regulated so that our well‑deserved reputation for an excellent IP system is not undermined.

The talent I wish I had is… being able to sing. I’m reliably told that listening to me sing is torture.

I can’t live without… the news. I’m constantly checking on what is happening around the world.

My ideal day would include… a visit to Tate Modern, which has great food and a fabulous view, as well as stunning art.

In my pocket is… nothing. I prefer to use a bag.

The best piece of advice I’ve been given is… never underestimate yourself, particularly as a woman.

When I want to relax, I… go to a gallery or a museum, or for a long walk.

In the next five years, I hope to… see greater diversity in the IP profession at all levels of practice.

The best thing about being a member of CITMA is… the opportunity to work with so many inspirational people who strive to continually improve the work and skills of the IP profession in the UK and who encourage people to thrive.

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