Overview:

We’re delighted that Michele Matkovic has joined Barker Brettell as a Trainee Trademark Attorney working in Rosalyn Newsome’s team.

Michele has around 10 years of intellectual property (IP) law experience, specialising in trade marks, gained before joining Barker Brettell. This includes two years in private practice across Italy and Spain, followed by eight years in-house in the UK at one of the world’s largest snacks and confectionery companies.

Michele’s experience is immediately apparent in the quality of his work which reflects his insight and judgement gained from practical experience in the sector.

Experience:

  • Led a worldwide IP filing programme for a major redesign of a leading international confectionery brand, coordinating global trade mark and design protection
  • Successfully secured trade mark registration for a well-known Central European biscuit brand by overcoming an inherent distinctiveness objection based on alleged geographical connotations
  • Developed and delivered IP and ambush marketing training for marketing, commercial and local legal teams in relation to Olympic events, helping stakeholders identify potential risks and implement appropriate mitigation measures.

Testimonial:

“Michele is certainly one of the most competent, diligent and thorough IP Lawyers that I have had the chance to work with. His work ethics and commitment are the strongest. Not only Michele is a very smart and agile lawyer, he is also a fantastic team player and an extremely kind, supportive and caring colleague.”
– Diane Silve, Legal Director

“I had the pleasure of working closely with Michele as IP Legal Counsel supporting our Greek operations at Mondelez International. He managed the full spectrum of IP matters — trademark portfolio management, brand protection, licensing, anti-counterfeiting, and enforcement — with exceptional diligence, precision, and a consistently commercial mindset. What distinguishes Michele is his rare ability to combine deep technical expertise in IP law with genuine business acumen. He navigated the Greek regulatory landscape and international IP frameworks with equal confidence, always translating complex legal issues into clear, actionable guidance for stakeholders at every level. Beyond his technical strengths, Michele is an outstanding communicator, composed, discreet, and collaborative. He builds trust effortlessly and manages sensitive matters with sound judgment and professionalism that is second to none. His proven ability to work autonomously, manage client relationships, and deliver high-caliber advice makes him ideally suited to serve as an independent legal advisor. I recommend him without reservation to anyone seeking expert, trusted IP counsel.”
– Theodora Christodoulou, Legal Counsel Greece & Cyprus Mondelez International