Following a number of major successes in key patent litigation cases over the last few years, Gowling WLG's global IP team has appointed a new director, Seiko Hidaka, to work within its patent litigation team to further strengthen its expertise in the tech sector and to support its growing global capabilities in Asia.
Having previously worked in the team as an associate, when it was part of Wragge & Co, Seiko returns to Gowling WLG's UK's patent litigation team with extensive experience as a skilled patent litigator and a fantastic track record of providing exceptional client service. In the last few years, Seiko has advised leading global businesses in relation to the most litigated and rapidly advancing areas of technology and life sciences, such as data, wireless technology and other standard essential patents, green tech, new therapeutic advances, e-cigarettes, and digital payment solutions.
Commenting on her new position, Seiko said: "I could not turn down an opportunity to join an energetic and go-getting practice that has marked several significant triumphs in the recent years in the field of Intellectual Property. Being able to provide a keen and forward looking IP offering is vital in the digital age, and I look forward to developing new initiatives with the benefit of the comprehensive and broad experience and knowledge base of one of the largest IP practices in the UK."
Kate Swaine, co-head of global IP at Gowling WLG, said: "Seiko's technical skillset and experience will provide valuable support and insight to our clients as they navigate through the challenges presented by new and emerging areas of technology. Her appointment brings further strength to our stellar IP team and its patent litigation expertise. We look forward to welcoming Seiko to the team."
Huw Evans, head of patent litigation (UK) at Gowling WLG, said: "It is fantastic to have Seiko back in the team. We are one of the most active teams in the UK Patents Court, known for breaking new ground in the law. Having Seiko back as part of the team demonstrates our commitment to continue to deliver optimal outcomes for our clients both in the UK and internationally."
Seiko has a degree in Natural Sciences from the University of Cambridge and a PhD in neurosciences from University of Oxford. She is also bilingual in Japanese and English.
Gowling WLG is a full-service firm comprising 1,400 professionals with strength across all areas of business law and litigation. With leading IP practices in Canada, China, the UAE, the UK and Europe, Russia and Singapore, and a network of trusted agents worldwide, we help IP owners overcome complex obstacles and optimize new opportunities - wherever business takes them. Learn more about our global IP team.