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LEADERS

Dr. Radeemada Mungkarndee: Pioneering Excellence In Patent Law & Legal Innovation

Dr. Radeemada Mungkarndee: Pioneering Excellence In Patent Law & Legal Innovation

Dr. Radeemada Mungkarndee
Partner

Women leaders have made remarkable strides across various industries, breaking barriers and contributing significantly to the professional landscape. One such exemplary leader is Dr. Radeemada Mungkarndee, Partner at Lexel. With a relentless pursuit of excellence, Radeemada has earned four degrees across diverse fields. Her academic journey began with a bachelor's degree in Chemistry, followed by a master's degree in Petrochemistry and Polymer Science. However, it was her aspiration to excel as a proficient patent lawyer that led her to pursue two additional degrees.

Radeemada's journey, marked initially by a limited grasp of patents' true essence, evolved into a serendipitous opportunity as she secured her first position at an intellectual property firm just before completing her master's degree. Recognizing the need for a holistic approach in patent law, she combined her scientific background with legal studies. This integration became even more crucial as she observed a surge in biotech patents during her professional journey, prompting her to pursue a PhD in biotechnology after completing her law degree.

Armed with this multidisciplinary background, Radeemada is well-prepared to serve clients effectively, bridging the gap between scientific expertise and legal intricacies. Her journey exemplifies the adaptability, resilience, and determination that women leaders bring to the forefront, making significant contributions to their respective fields. Let’s read.

Take us through your vast and expansive professional journey so far.

Over the past two decades, I've cultivated an illustrious career as a patent attorney, marked by diverse experiences that shaped my journey. Beginning in a medium-sized law firm, I gained a comprehensive understanding of, with hands-on experience, the patent protection process.

Transitioning to one of Thailand's largest IP firms, I engaged in patent litigation, enriching my legal knowledge. Simultaneously pursuing legal studies, this litigation experience complemented my academic pursuits. Recruited by a headhunter, I joined a prominent company, managing their intellectual property across multiple countries. Stepping into a managerial position allowed me to gain a deep understanding not only of intellectual property but also of the entire R&D and innovation management processes.

Moving to a top-tier global law firm, I honed expertise in client management and identified legal complexities arising from deep tech innovations globally. Recognizing the need to better serve clients in this area, I founded LEXEL, aiming to provide legal services that intertwine intricate legal facets with complex innovations and technology. This journey reflects a commitment to excellence and a profound understanding of the evolving legal landscape.

Can you shed light on the key domains of expertise you've cultivated over your years in the patent industry?

Throughout my tenure in the patent industry, I've garnered comprehensive experience across the entire patent life cycle, encompassing creation, protection, litigation, and commercialization. To underscore specific facets of my expertise, I would emphasize my proficiency in technologies related to fundamental human needs. This encompasses fields such as life sciences, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, health technology, food, energy production, and materials. Within these realms, I've developed a profound understanding and extensive practical knowledge. These technologies represent cutting-edge advancements that continually reshape industries, serving as the focal point of my work and expertise within the patent domain.

Introduce us to Lexel. What are your primary roles and responsibilities as a Partner at the firm?

Lexel stands as a pioneering force in Thailand's legal landscape, with partners and lawyers boasting extensive experience across diverse domains. As a Partner, I play a pivotal role in decision-making and spearhead our business development strategy, ensuring meticulous attention to detail to align with client needs. This strategic and systematic thinking not only benefits clients but also applies to ensure the well-being of my team. Additionally, coaching and inspiring talent team members to explore their unique paths for unlocking their fullest potential at Lexel is a key aspect of my role.

Throw some light on the major challenges you encounter in your current role? How do you overcome the said roadblocks?

Navigating my role as a business leader has brought forth diverse challenges, both internal and external. Internally, establishing my firm post-COVID-19 presented a unique hurdle, necessitating a swift adaptation to a digital work environment. Juggling the intricate intersection of law and science in patent work, my team's ongoing learning is crucial, yet maintaining high work quality remains paramount. Balancing productivity and quality has become a focal point.

"Law & innovation have been the foundational keystones of my life, fostering a perpetual passion for my profession"

Over my two-decade journey, I've witnessed a significant shift in Thailand's patent landscape, with patents gaining recognition as valuable intangible assets and strategic business tools. While this evolution has led to a surge in patent service providers offering low-cost services using unqualified individuals due to the shortage of qualified patent lawyers capable of blending technological and legal expertise, thereby negatively impacting the overall landscape of the Thai patent system. With our robust patent team, we adapt to these challenges involving constant vigilance, strategic adjustments, and a commitment to upholding standards without compromising our quality amidst dynamic industry transformations, all while providing reasonable-priced services.

In your view, what notable accomplishments have marked your professional journey, and what guides your success?

Despite the relatively brief duration since founding my firm a year ago, I've been fortunate to achieve significant milestones. While I take pride in the rankings and recognitions garnered, I see them as initial steps rather than ultimate victories. Success, for me, is an ongoing endeavor demanding unwavering dedication, innovation, and a commitment to continual growth. The most meaningful achievements I've secured involve establishing a robust foundation for my firm, crafting a reputable brand, and fostering valuable industry relationships. These accomplishments, though commendable, serve as groundwork for more substantial aspirations. If I were to distill a success mantra, it would center on steadfast dedication.

Dr. Radeemada Mungkarndee, Partner, Lexel

Radeemada Mungkarndee, Partner and Head of Patent & Life Sciences at Lexel, boasts a multidisciplinary background with four degrees. Her journey as a patent lawyer evolved through diverse roles, emphasizing the integration of scientific expertise and legal acumen. With over two decades of experience, she leads Lexel, contributing to its pioneering position in Thailand's legal landscape.

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