Each year, the list of winners is curated through comprehensive research conducted for the IAM Patent 1000 and WTR 1000. The dedicated research teams at IAM and WTR collect thousands of written submissions from firms outlining their recent work in the IP sector, interview top practitioners from around the world, and seek insights from in-house leaders. This process provides deep understanding of the leading players in the industry.
Winners are chosen based on a variety of criteria, including excellence, achievements, and market reputation. Their recognition highlights the exceptional work being done by IP firms globally.
The IAM Strategy 300 guide honors individuals who have demonstrated exceptional insight into the development, creation, and management of intellectual property value. This prestigious recognition is awarded only after a rigorous research process, with nominations coming from at least three external sources. The list includes leaders from a range of sectors, including service providers, corporations, research institutions, and universities.
Boco IP, one of Finland’s oldest and most respected IP firms, has been specializing in intellectual property management since 1928. With a team of seasoned professionals and a vast global network, Boco IP offers tailored solutions to meet the unique needs of its clients, helping protect and maximize the value of their intellectual property.
“A low-hierarchy, self-directed, and constantly evolving work community with a positive and supportive atmosphere can create added value for customers because employees are well taken care of. When, through my background research and interviews, I understood that this is truly reflected in Boco IP’s everyday operations, it became clear that I wanted to work at Boco IP. The first few weeks have only reinforced the feeling that I am in the right place, surrounded by wonderful people.“
Mia Niemelä initially built her career in the hotel industry with a degree in Hospitality Management, a specialized degree in Foreign Trade, and a professional qualification in Advertising. However, when she became a single mother, she transitioned from a three-shift job to the IPR field in 2001.
In her IPR roles, Mia has handled correspondence with clients, foreign partners, and patent offices, managed the preparation and submission of official documents to authorities, recorded and adhered to deadlines, and managed billing processes. Essentially, she has been involved in all stages of the patent protection process throughout her workdays.
In 2017, however, Mia felt that her career in the hotel industry was unfinished, so she returned to the field for seven years. During this time, she not only traveled extensively worldwide, gaining experience and networking with professionals in the industry, but also worked in various managerial positions in hotels. However, the travel industry, particularly in Lapland, is in constant flux. After much consideration, Mia decided to settle permanently in Southern Finland, where her son and sister also live. When Boco IP happened to be looking for an IP Specialist at the same time, the timing was perfect, and fate led Mia back to the IPR field.
Mia appreciates the IPR field for the fact that laws and regulations largely define the tasks and pace of work. Within these boundaries, however, the work is largely self-directed, team-based expert work that is never fully completed; there is always an opportunity to learn and develop further.
The constant development within the work community and the changes in the field keep her interest alive, and she is excited to return to the industry, eager to take on her new roles in both the mechanical and trademark teams.
Suvi has an extensive experience in brand protection and enforcement, making her a valuable addition to our team. In addition to intellectual property rights, she will broaden our legal services and advise our clients in legal matters related to commercial agreements.
Before joining Boco, Suvi has worked as a senior legal counsel in a technology company, and also as an attorney-at-law focusing especially on trademark and copyright related matters.
Suvi holds a double degree: Master of Laws from University of Helsinki and Master of Science in Economics andBusiness Administration from Hanken School of Economics.
We are deeply honored to receive this recognition, which underscores our unwavering commitment to delivering superior intellectual property services. This award is a testament to our team’s dedication and expertise, solidifying our reputation as a trusted leader in the industry.
Our team of experts is renowned for their deep knowledge and innovative solutions in intellectual property. Our clients are the cornerstone of our success, and this award highlights our focus on providing customized solutions to meet their unique needs.
Boco IP continuously strives to set industry benchmarks. Being honored with the Gold Award acknowledges our international presence and our capability to serve clients across borders. We remain dedicated to continuous improvement and maintaining a leading position in intellectual property practices.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our clients, partners, and dedicated personnel. Your trust and support have been crucial in achieving this significant milestone.
We look forward to continuing our journey of excellence in the intellectual property sector, setting new standards, and delivering exceptional value to our clients.
Survey Details:
The winners were selected by approximately 80 jury members, including IP Directors, Counsellors, and experts from the IP field. The decision process was confidential, based on the judges’ experience and market knowledge about IP. All nominees submitted extensive application forms for consideration.
About Boco IP:
Boco IP is a leading intellectual property firm known for its excellence in providing innovative and tailored solutions to clients worldwide. With a team of experts across various fields of intellectual property, Boco IP is dedicated to safeguarding and optimizing our clients’ intellectual assets.
Romania has ratified Agreement on a Unified Patent Court (UPCA), and joins the unitary patent system as the 18th EU member state on September 1, 2024. For obtaining a Unitary Patent (UP), a request to register the granted EP patent with unitary effect shall be made before the EPO within one month from grant date of the EP patent.
Unitary Patent covers only the territories of participating member states in which the UPCA has taken effect at the date of registration of the unitary effect by the EPO. If the applicant wishes it’s newly granted EP patent to be registered with unitary effect covering also Romania, a request for delaying registration of unitary effect can be filed.
Current EU Member States covered by a Unitary Patent are: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Portugal, Slovenia, and Sweden.
Earlier, we celebrated our trademark Top Tier 1 Ranking. Now, we are excited to share that we have also been recognized as a Top Tier firm in Patent Prosecution. Additionally, we are honored to have three patent stars – Karri Leskinen, Jonna Sahlin, and Christian Westerholm – and one trademark star, Peter Åkerlund, featured on the prestigious platform. This recognition reaffirms our status as one of the leaders in Finland’s IP market.
“These rankings are significant for us and once again demonstrate our international expertise in various IP fields, highlighting the value we bring to our clients,” says Karri Leskinen, CEO of Boco IP.
The IP STARS annual rankings identify the top law firms and lawyers across a variety of IP practice areas and more than 80 jurisdictions, making it the most comprehensive and widely respected IP practitioner guide in the legal profession. This recognition reflects Boco IP’s ongoing commitment to excellence and our ability to deliver client satisfaction in the most complex IP cases.
About Boco IP
Boco IP is a leading intellectual property (IP) law firm dedicated to providing comprehensive IP services to clients globally. With a long history and deep expertise, we specialize in various aspects of IP law, including patents, trademarks, and designs. Our team of experienced professionals is committed to delivering tailored solutions that protect and enhance the value of our clients’ innovations and brands. Boco IP stands as a trusted partner in the ever-evolving landscape of intellectual property.
For more details on the rankings, you can read the full article here.
This prestigious guide, which highlights the top patent practitioners globally, has now been published and is live on the IAM website.
IAM Patent 1000 2024 research team’s view of Boco IP
According to IAM Research team, our experts are presented as follows:
Based out of Helsinki, Karri Leskinen heads up the department. An expert in chemistry, he is a trusted resource for those in the pharmaceuticals, food and processing, and polymer technologies industries. His clientele often calls on him for comprehensive portfolio management, to develop and execute strategies, as well as for support during complex litigation.
On the left: Karri Leskinen – on the right Jonna Sahlin
Chairman of the board Jonna Sahlin “is a talented patent attorney with vast expertise across numerous technical fields, from chemistry to biofuels”. Ensuring an innovative environment of fruitful collaborations, she carries out early-stage investigations, prepares opinions and is enlisted during opposition and appeal proceedings across Finland, Sweden and Europe.
On the biotechnology and plant pathology front is Jaana Hämäläinen. She brings a wealth of international research experience from top universities and institutions in Finland, Sweden and the United States. This, coupled with her specialised knowledge in plant variety rights within Finland and the European Union, makes her a valuable resource extending beyond drafting intricate applications and handling oppositions and appeals.
Jaana Hämäläinen
Physicist Thomas Carlsson is a safe pair of hands for a spectrum of sectors from nanotechnology to semiconductors and optoelectronics. Drawing on his profound expertise in patent drafting and his skills in maximising the scope of a patent, he has authored Good Patent Applications.
Thomas Carlsson
Marja Liisa Autti brings electrical engineering expertise to the table. “Alongside assisting in the early phases of new inventions, her significant contributions to opposition preparations, combined with her efficiency and cooperative nature, make her a pleasure to work with. Her keen understanding of the key IP rights issues that impact the industry further establishes her as an indispensable asset to the team.
Marja Liisa Autti
Mechanical experts Christian Westerholm and Tomi Salter also play crucial roles in patrons’ operations. “Portfolio management ace Christian collaborates effectively with the in-house team to achieve top-notch results. He oversees patent matters both technically and economically in a professional manner, ensuring smooth co-operations.” “Tomi has a clear understanding of different tools, which he uses effectively to find the best solutions for the customer. He ensures ideas are protected correctly, all while understanding the importance of not covering irrelevant matters.
Christian Westerholm
Over in the Tampere office is the group’s chief strategy office,Sini-Maaria Mikkilä, who offers specialist knowledge in automation technology. She provides patenting advice and devises protective strategies for inventors and conglomerates alike, safeguarding their inventions with a business-oriented approach.
On the left Sini-Maaria Mikkilä – On the Right Tomi Salter
What does IAM Patent 1000 2024 mean for Boco IP?
Recognition in the IAM Patent 1000 is a testament to the expertise, dedication, and exceptional service that our team provides to clients. Our inclusion in this esteemed list underscores our commitment to excellence in the field of intellectual property and our ongoing efforts to deliver outstanding results.
“We are incredibly proud of our team for achieving this recognition,” said Karri Leskinen, CEO. “This acknowledgment by IAM reflects the hard work and expertise of our professionals and reinforces our reputation as leaders in the patent industry.”
The IAM Patent 1000 guide is an authoritative resource for those seeking top-tier patent professionals worldwide. Being featured in this guide demonstrates our unwavering dedication to helping clients navigate the complex landscape of intellectual property with confidence and success.
Boco IP is one of the oldest firms in Finland to specialize in the management of intellectual property. Since 1928, Boco IP has been assisting clients with intellectual property rights. With a team of experienced professionals and a global network of partners, Boco IP provides comprehensive IP solutions tailored to the clients’ unique needs
We are thrilled to announce Boco IP’s Chairman of the Board, European Patent Attorney Jonna Sahlin has been named on the “Top 250 Women in IP” 2024 list by Managing Intellectual Property (MIP). This publication recognizes senior female IP practitioners in private practice who have performed exceptionally for their clients and firms in the past year and Jonna is one of only four practitioners to be recognized in Finland this year.
According to MIP’s IP stars: “the practitioners recognised in the “Top 250 Women in IP” publication are selected from MIP’s IP Stars list for the year. When deciding who to select for the Top 250 Women in IP publication, their research analysts took account of all the available research information, especially data from firm questionnaire and surveys, obtained for the IP STARS rankings and Managing IP Awards programme.”
About Boco IP
Boco IP is one of the oldest firms in Finland to specialize in the management of intellectual property. Since 1928, Boco IP has been assisting clients with intellectual property rights. With a team of experienced professionals and a global network of partners, Boco IP provides comprehensive IP solutions tailored to the clients’ unique needs.
Boco IP proudly announces its achievement in the IP STARS 2024 rankings: We have been granted Tier 1 ranking in the prestigious survey in both patent prosecution (2023) and trade mark (2024) for trade mark and patent attorney firms (2024), which affirms our status as a leader in the IPR market.
“Tier 1 category in the trademark prosecution category, highlights our continued commitment to excellence and leadership in the intellectual property field. Our success in these rankings expresses the dedication and expertise of our team. I am grateful for the trust and support of our clients and partners, which has been instrumental in achieving this honor. I personally want to express my sincere thanks to the clients and partners for being part of our journey. This recognition reflects Boco IP’s ongoing commitment to excellence and its ability to deliver client satisfaction in the most complex IP cases.” says Karri Leskinen, Boco IP’s CEO.
The IP STARS annual rankings identify the top law firms and lawyers across a variety of IP practice areas and more than 80 jurisdictions, making it the most comprehensive and widely respected IP practitioner guide in the legal profession.
Boco IP is a leading intellectual property (IP) law firm dedicated to providing comprehensive IP services to clients globally. With a long history and deep expertise, we specialize in various aspects of IP law, including patents, trademarks and designs. Our team of experienced professionals is committed to delivering tailored solutions that protect and enhance the value of our clients’ innovations and brands. Boco IP stands as a trusted partner in the ever-evolving landscape of intellectual property.
For more details on the rankings, you can read the full article here.
