Name: Andy Docherty
Company: Marks & Clerk
Job Title: Partner, Head of Energy
Give us the elevator Pitch of your business
Marks & Clerk helps businesses protect, manage, and maximise the value of innovation. We support organisations from start-ups to multinational corporations, managing everything from individual inventions to complex global IP portfolios. Our expertise spans energy, AI, robotics, medtech, software, cyber security, and advanced engineering, helping clients innovate and grow confidently worldwide.
Who are your customers
Our clients range from global corporations and Tier 1 operators to SMEs, start-ups, universities, and individual inventors. We support organisations across a wide variety of technical sectors, providing commercial support as trusted IP advisors. Whether managing a single innovation or a large international IP portfolio, we help clients protect their intellectual property, manage risk, and maximise the commercial value of their innovations worldwide.
What’s the biggest challenge
One of the biggest challenges facing businesses today is protecting innovation while navigating rapid technological change and increasing competition. As organisations invest in new technologies, particularly in the energy transition, AI, and digital sectors, they need robust IP strategies in line with these technologies to manage risk, safeguard their competitive position, and support long-term commercial growth.
What is your word of Advice for fellow Chamber members
Don't wait until you've launched a product or service to think about protecting it. Whether it's intellectual property, data, or technology, building protection and commercialisation strategies into your business from the outset can create significant long-term value and open doors to future growth opportunities.