It is with enormous pleasure that we announce the promotion of four Wrays colleagues from across the firm.
Dr Phil Burns has been promoted to Principal in the firm’s Sydney practice. This is a significant achievement and recognises Phil’s commitment and contribution to the growth of the firm over many years.
The other key promotions include Kate Howard, Emma Steeper and Edward Chan who have all been elevated to the position of Associate.
Paula Adamson, CEO of Wrays announced the appointments saying “Each of these promotions is thoroughly deserved. Phil brings deep technical expertise and invaluable intellectual property knowledge to Wrays and plays a vital role in our continued efforts to provide the highest standards of service to our clients.
Kate and Emma’s promotions bolster our expanding trade mark department while Edward enhances the strength of our litigation group. These advancements, including three esteemed colleagues in our Sydney office, highlight the firm’s robust technical capabilities and continued dedication to growth on the East Coast.”
Dr Phil Burns has over 20 years’ experience as a patent attorney. With a degree in optoelectronics and a doctorate in physics research, Phil’s practice focuses on seeking and securing strong patent protection for inventions across many-varied fields including photonics and bio-photonics, optical physics, laser technologies and applications, and software/IT applications and algorithms. He is highly respected by his clients for his ability to thoroughly understand their technology and deliver high quality patent documentation, ensuring the greatest possible chance of the protection of their IP rights.
Kate Howard is a trade marks specialist assisting clients in all aspects of trade marks prosecution and oppositions including filing, advice, strategies and prosecution throughout the world. Kate has over 15 years’ experience in the IP industry and has responsibility for the day-to-day management of the trade mark portfolios of some of the firm’s largest clients.
Emma Steeper has been an integral member of the firm since joining in 2015. Emma specialises in Trade Marks and understands that a client’s brand is one of their most valuable assets. Emma ensures the smooth management of her client’s trade mark portfolios which includes a number of iconic Australian and international brands. She is highly valued by her clients for her collaborative and open approach.
Edward Chan is a Lawyer within Wrays’ multi-disciplinary dispute resolution practice. He works with the team to develop and employ creative strategies to defend his clients’ innovation and technology. Prior to joining Wrays, Edward practised as a Pharmacist in Australia for more than 10 years. His unique background in both science and law ensures he truly understands the technical nature of his client’s innovation and can anticipate intellectual property issues before they arise.
Please join us in congratulating Phil, Kate, Emma and Edward on their outstanding achievement. The promotions are effective 1 July 2024.
