AIPLA announces new president
The American Intellectual Property Law Association (AIPLA), has appointed Brian Batzli, as the new president of the organisation.
First hired as an associate in 1987 by Merchant & Gould, Batzli is now in his 35th year at the law firm.
He was elected as the firm’s managing director, CEO and chairman of the firm’s board in 2010. Batzli completed his term in those roles in 2018, when he welcomed his successor, Chris Leonard.
He now serves as chairman emeritus and continues his practice of strategic IP counselling, licensing, and patent prosecution in the electrical, mechanical, and software arts.
As president, Batzli will represent US interests throughout the world and guide AIPLA’s domestic policy. As an active member of AIPLA, he has held a number of positions within the organisation.
Batzli just completed his term as president-elect (2021-2022); was AIPLA’s treasurer for three terms (2016-2019); and has served on the organisation’s board of directors for five years (2016-present).
In addition, before serving on the board, Batzli held a variety of committee leadership positions.
Founded in 1897, AIPLA is a national bar association constituted primarily of Intellectual Property professionals in private and corporate practice, in government service, and in the academic community.
Its 7,500 members represent both owners and users of IP, as well as governmental and non-governmental organisations.
Commenting on the appointment, Christopher Leonard, managing director and CEO of Merchant & Gould, said: “On behalf of the entire firm, I congratulate Brian on this tremendous achievement. We value AIPLA’s impact on the intellectual property profession, and we are grateful for his exceptional leadership and ongoing commitment.
“More than ever, with increased innovation and greater demand for intellectual property legal services, we are excited for Brian to help steer AIPLA’s mission, outreach, and advocacy during an important time for our industry. He is a smart lawyer and an exceptional leader.”
