Driving Industry of Innovation: How LESI Creates Opportunities for Technology and IP-Heavy Sectors

In industries where intellectual property (IP) and technology are the lifeblood of innovations such as high-tech, pharmaceuticals, automotive, IoT, electronics, chemicals, and energy—the effective management and strategic use of IP assets can make or break success. The Licensing Executives Society International (LESI) has long recognized this and is committed to empowering these industries through its global network, professional development opportunities, and thought leadership.

LESI isn’t just a professional organization; it’s a platform where industry players can access high-quality training, build vital networks, connect to decision makers and thought leaders and stay connected to the rapidly evolving world of IP.

Empowering Industries Through Knowledge and Training

For technology-driven and IP-heavy industries, staying ahead of the curve is essential. LESI provides a variety of professional development programs tailored to meet these demands, including online and in-person training sessions under its Thought Leaders Program. Several national and regional LES societies provide more local and topical training, some also eligible for local certifications.

Many companies have recognized the value LESI offers by sending entire teams to LESI events and conferences. These events are designed to provide actionable insights into IP strategy, licensing, and commercialization, ensuring that businesses can apply best practices in their industries. I have personally heard that attending a LESI conference once a year keeps the team’s thinking international and fresh. In emerging businesses, access to training and creating connections to other industry players is greatly supported by LESI conferences.

Moreover, LESI’s flagship publication, les Nouvelles, delivers in-depth articles on industry-relevant topics. For example, the upcoming March 2025 issue will spotlight Standard Essential Patents (SEPs), a critical area for industries like telecommunications, consumer electronics, IoT, and automotive. This focus highlights LESI’s dedication to providing members with cutting-edge information directly applicable to their fields.

Building a Strong Peer and Expert Network

LESI’s global network offers more than just training—it creates opportunities to connect with the best experts and decision-makers in the industry. Members have shared how LESI helped them quickly find top-tier professionals to address challenges or explore new ventures. LESI connects industries working with commercialization of IP – this includes various sectors from IP management tools to litigation funding, from AI to competition law.

For industries where collaboration is key, the ability to pick up the phone and connect with an expert in any part of the world is invaluable. Beyond this, LESI fosters peer networks among industry leaders and decision-makers. Maintaining relationships with these peers can lead to new partnerships, insights, and opportunities for innovation.

Additionally, LESI connects members with non-governmental organizations, regulators, and other influential entities. These connections are essential for industries that need to maintain dialogue with their stakeholders, navigate complex regulatory landscapes or align with global standards.

Industry-Focused Initiatives

During my term as LESI President (2024–2025), I have placed particular emphasis on engaging with industries. LESI is more industry-friendly than ever, thanks to initiatives designed to meet the specific needs of technology and IP-driven businesses.

• Thought Leaders Program: Offers practical, high-quality training and workshops on cutting-edge topics, both online and in person.

• Industry Discussion Events: Facilitated conversations tailored to address pressing issues in sectors like high-tech, consumer electronics and SEPs. These events bring together industry leaders to share insights and foster collaboration. These events are core part of our Annual Conferences and additionally organized around the various local LES events.

• Focused Content in les Nouvelles: LESI’s quarterly journal regularly features articles that resonate with industry professionals. The March 2025 issue, for example, will cover SEPs, offering a deep dive into a subject critical for many LESI members’ industries.

• Innovation Award: Over several years the LESI Innovation Trends committee has given out Innovation Awards to recognize successful IP commercialization through various business models and various forms of IP. This prestigious award has received record number of proposals this year, show-casing the attraction through several industries.

These efforts are part of a broader strategy to ensure that LESI remains a valuable resource for industries relying on IP and technology.

LESI: A Platform for Industry Success

In a world where innovation drives growth, LESI provides an unmatched platform for industries to thrive. We are an impartial, non-political and independent organization. From training and thought leadership to networking and collaboration opportunities, LESI equips its members with the tools they need to succeed in technology and IP-heavy sectors.

During this time of rapid change, staying connected with a peer network of decision-makers and tapping into LESI’s resources can make a significant difference for individuals and entire organizations. For industries looking to innovate, grow, and lead, LESI is a key partner on that journey.

Whether you’re an industry leader, decision-maker, or part of a team looking to enhance its expertise, LESI offers opportunities to grow and succeed. With a focus on industry engagement, LESI is helping businesses to fully use their potential in today’s IP-driven world.