Mr. Julian Crump

I graduated from the University of Cambridge in 1988 with an honours degree in Natural Sciences, focusing on chemistry, but also covering physics and cell biology. I qualified as a Chartered Patent Attorney in 1993 and as a European Patent Attorney in 1995. During my qualification, I was awarded the Gill Prize for the highest overall marks in the UK examinations and the Ballantyne Prize for the top mark in the Infringement & Validity paper. I am also a licensed IP litigator for patents.

With over 35 years of experience as a patent attorney, I joined Abel + Imray in 2018. My practice focuses primarily on pharmaceuticals, medical devices, optical lenses, and sustainable technologies, including carbon capture and hydropower. I also have experience in a wide range of other sectors, such as food technology, product-handling equipment, and aircraft seating systems. I advise clients ranging from start-ups to multinational corporations.

I frequently represent clients in oral proceedings before the European Patent Office, particularly in oppositions and appeals. I also advise on IP aspects of licensing and other commercial agreements, and I conduct IP audits and due diligence reviews for clients and their investors.

My involvement with FICPI began in 1997 as a member of CET Group 5 (Chemistry & Biotechnology). I was appointed Reporter of CET Group 3 (International Patents) in 2000 and served as CET Reporter General from 2003. In 2006, I was elected Secretary General, a role I held for nine years. I was elected Vice President in 2015 and President in 2018. My three-year presidential term was extended by 15 months due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and it was a privilege to help guide FICPI through that challenging time. I now serve as Chair of the Advisory Council and President of the Communications Commission. I am also a board member of the Global Intellectual Property Alliance (GLIPA), and in May 2023, I was elected President of the British Association of FICPI (FICPI-UK).