Welcome to the latest instalment of Managing IP’s ‘Five minutes with’ series, where we learn more about IP practitioners on a personal as well as a professional level. This time we have Burak Yüceel, chair of Anadolu Patent in Turkey.
Someone asks you at a party what you do for a living. What do you say?
Something like: ‘I’m a computer engineer, but I focus on protecting innovation and technology through IP strategies. I help people understand their legal rights and navigate through various legal issues and provide guidance and support, so people can make informed decisions. I create and help secure the ideas and products that you use every day.’
It’s a great way to start a conversation and explain my role!
Talk us through a typical working day.
A typical working day starts with a review of emails and messages to address any urgent inquiries or follow-ups from clients. After that, I usually spend some time preparing for meetings or calls.
Throughout the day, I might have client consultations, where I listen to their concerns and provide guidance on various IP matters.
I also dedicate time to drafting and checking documents, such as agreements, appeals, and legal opinions. With the relevant clients, we discuss strategies for local and international applications and finalise the applications by determining the most appropriate roadmap.
In addition, I keep up with current legal developments and case law to ensure that my knowledge remains up to date.
I often wrap up my day by reviewing my to-do list, prioritising tasks for the next day, and making sure all client communication is documented.
Throughout the day, I aim to maintain a friendly and approachable demeanor. After all, making IP topics accessible and understandable is a big part of what I do!
What are you working on at the moment?
I’m focused on a few exciting projects! I'm reviewing some license agreements for clients to ensure they protect their interests and comply with relevant laws.
Additionally, I'm thrilled to help a client who owns a perfume brand that they are about to open up to the world. This includes helping them choose the right type of applications and preparing the necessary paperwork.
I’m also conducting some research on recent changes in IP law, as it’s a constantly evolving field.
Lastly, I’m always available for client inquiries. It keeps me busy, but I love it!
Does one big piece of work usually take priority or are you juggling multiple things?
It’s definitely more of a juggling act! While there might be one big project that demands more attention at a given time – like a complex contract negotiation or filing multiple industrial designs in multiple jurisdictions – there are usually multiple tasks and clients to manage simultaneously.
Prioritisation is key. I often use a mix of urgency and importance to determine what needs immediate focus. For instance, if a client has a pressing deadline, that will take precedence, even if I have ongoing projects. I also try to break larger tasks into smaller, manageable pieces to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
What is the most exciting aspect of your role and what is the most stressful?
The most exciting part is seeing an idea come to life and knowing that I’m protecting something that could be groundbreaking.
On the flip side, the most stressful part can be managing tight deadlines and the high stakes associated with legal work. Clients often rely on quick and accurate advice, especially when they’re facing urgent issues. Balancing multiple projects and ensuring that everything is done thoroughly and on time can feel overwhelming at times.
Keeping up with ever-changing laws and regulations adds another layer of pressure.
Tell us the key characteristics that make a successful IP lawyer/practitioner.
Successful IP practitioners typically possess several key characteristics such as:
Strong analytical skills;
Excellent communication;
Creativity;
In-depth knowledge of IP laws;
Attention to detail;
Business acumen;
Negotiation skills;
Resilience and adaptability;
A client-centric approach;
Hunger to learn.
What is the most common misconception about IP?
Simply having an idea is enough. Many people think their ideas are automatically protected, but in reality, the process of securing IP rights requires a lot of documentation, legal groundwork, and strategic planning.
The other common misconception is that it is only relevant to large corporations or artists with well-known brands. Many people think that IP protection is primarily for businesses with significant resources or famous inventors, which can lead to smaller businesses, startups, or individual creators underestimating its importance.
What or who inspires you?
I’m inspired by innovators who constantly push boundaries - people like Alan Turing, who laid the groundwork for modern computing, and those who work on cutting-edge tech today.
I’m also inspired by great leaders and mentors who embody integrity, resilience, and a commitment to social justice – people like Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of my country and who made laws that are mostly still in force.
Their blend of creativity and their dedication to helping others and making a positive impact encourages me to uphold those values in my work.
If you weren’t in IP, what would you be doing?
I think I’d be involved in something else that combines creativity, problem-solving, and a desire to help others, perhaps designing systems for sustainable technology or working on data privacy and security issues.
Any advice you would give your younger self?
1. Embrace curiosity and explore different fields.
2. Take risks and step out of your comfort zone.
3. Networking and mentorship are just as important as academic success.
4. Maintain a healthy work-life balance and care for your mental and physical health.
5. Strong communication skills are invaluable in both personal and professional life.
6. Stay open-minded, accept feedback, and remain flexible to new ideas and perspectives.
7. Believe in yourself and have confidence in your abilities
8. Keep learning to keep yourself informed and adaptable.
9. Acknowledge small achievements as they contribute to your overall growth.
10. Have patience, trust the process, and be persistent. Every experience shapes your journey.
What is your motto in life?
Strive to be better today than you were yesterday.
