HGF expands engineering team with new French partner

European IP firm HGF has hired engineering expert Vivien Verbrugge as a partner.

Verbrugge, who was previously group technology counsel at ITW,  has experience in different industries including glass manufacturing, automotive, construction, electronics and telecommunications.

His practice covers mechanical, electronics, optoelectronics and telecommunications fields.

His appointment forms the next phase of HGF’s “ambitious growth strategy across Europe”, the firm said in a statement.

Verbrugge advises clients on portfolio creation, infringement avoidance and freedom to commercialise, portfolio enforcement and dispute resolution matters.

He has also advised on multi-jurisdiction portfolio acquisitions, secured successful outcomes in European Patent Office oppositions and coordinated many IP litigations.

Paul Sanderson, HGF’s CEO said: “HGF understands the importance for growth in Europe and we welcome Vivien to the firm. His experience and expertise will continue to strengthen our highly regarded specialist engineering team.”

Verbrugge holds a PhD in physics and optoelectronics for telecommunications (Université de Rennes), an engineering degree (Institut National des Sciences Appliquées de Lyon) and a Master of Physics (Université de Rennes).

Before entering the patent profession, he spent four years in project management in the telecommunications industry and was named inventor in three different patent families.

“I am delighted to join HGF, I have had a relationship with the firm for quite some time and their growth has been impressive. I look forward to helping to achieve the ambitious plans the firm has in place for future international growth and development,” said Verbrugge.

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