Pranay Prabhu Gaonkar

Menezes Gaonkar & Associates
Founding Member

As the founding member of MG-IP, a firm that focuses on protecting the value of digital innovations, I leverage my 17+ years of experience as an IP leader, a patent and trademark agent, and a coach to deliver high-quality IP services to our clients. I have a passion for converting ideas into strong and enforceable IPRs that align with the business goals and product strategy of the innovators.

Previously, I was the head of IP at Siemens India, where I formulated and executed the IP strategy, drove idea generation and innovation mindsets, and managed a regional IP team of 10+ professionals. I have extensive hands-on experience in drafting and prosecuting more than 300 patent applications for software/digital inventions in various fields and jurisdictions. I also have a track record of successfully leading IP integration for large acquisitions, negotiating contracts with vendors and universities, and handling trademark and counterfeit cases. Additionally, I am a trained coach who helps people with career, life, and executive coaching, and a co-lead of Diversity in IP, a group that aims to increase female inventorship.