Daren Tang takes office as new WIPO director-general

Tang began his six-year term on 1 October after he was appointed by a special session of the WIPO general assembly in March. The 48 year old replaces outgoing director-general Francis Gurry, whose term ended on 30 September after completing two six-year terms.

"We must prioritise work towards building an inclusive global IP ecosystem that serves the interests of all countries and their stakeholders," Tang said following his appointment. "Second, we must work towards a balanced global IP ecosystem, ensuring that the institutions, companies, policymakers, users and all stakeholders in our global innovation community can participate in, and benefit from, this global IP ecosystem.

"Third, WIPO must work towards a vibrant and forward-looking global IP ecosystem. It must help the world broaden its perspective of IP beyond its legal and technical aspects to its powerful role as a supporter of entrepreneurs and enterprises, catalyst for investments, driver of economic growth and a promoter of social vibrancy."

Gurry said: "The international intellectual property community will be in good hands with Mr Tang at the helm of the organisation. In the meantime, we are looking forward to working closely with Tang and his team on a smooth transition."

Tang is a law graduate who served as the chair of the WIPO Standing Committee on Copyright and Related Rights for several years. He has been credited with moving forward tough negotiations with diplomatic skill. His other accomplishments include working on IP initiatives at the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and has launched new IP technologies.

Meanwhile, WIPO is encouraging women to register for the Global Careers for Women Autumn Event on 8 October for a chance to work with the organisation. WIPO, the United Nations Development Programme and the United Nations Office for Project Services, among other leading international organisations from the international public sector, are looking to accelerate proactive strategies to close the gender gap. The organisations will participate in the online recruitment event to engage with professional women around the world. Interested individuals can register here.