NHS Innovations London - Organisational and Operational Structure

Organisational and Operational Structure

NHSIL project staff is split into 4 different specialist areas that operate in cross-functional teams for project works. These areas can be split into the following categories

1. NHS Trust Liaison: NHSIL Partner Liaison Managers each liaise with 10-20 Trusts within the London region, providing a range services, including management of new disclosures, IP training session, Technology Scouting (audits) and development of active IP projects. Partnership Liaison Managers are also responsible for assessing disclosures at the feasibility stage to ascertain whether ideas are likely to be patentable. Partnership Liaison Managers develop strong working relationship with IP Leads in each Trust and also identify potential internal “champions” in each department, as appropriate.
2. IP Management: Intellectual Property Managers, with specialisations in medical devices, equipment, pharmaceuticals and diagnostics, file provide advice on IPR such as design rights, copy rights and trade marks. They also provide technical evaluation of new IP, including comparisons with other technologies and products, as well as recommendations on the improvement of new IP and its patentability by working with external IP and legal advisors. Their overall position is to manage the IP process, including validation, definition, filing and protection of patents and protection of trademarks/copyrights.
3. Virtual Product Development: Currently, one Development Project Manager manages all external product development, including liaison with external vendors and the originating Trust. Development Project Managers identify IT, IM, software, database and telecoms related products and IP arising in the London NHS Trusts and potential other new technology-related sources of IP. Where applicable, they are also involved with the assessment of the key routes and partners to commercialisation, e.g. through licensing, OEM, company formation or other relationships.
4. Business Development & Marketing: NHSIL's Director of Business Development and Business Analyst provide specialist knowledge and advice regarding the commercialisation process for Healthcare innovations, such as market research, business plan development, funding, forming partnerships etc. NHSIL Business Development Team generally helps inventors choose between two main commercialisation routes: licensing or the creation of a company, often spin out companies for NHS Trusts. There is also a Marketing Manager to cover all areas communications and marketing, including branding, network and award events, and developing promotional material.