Meet Our Talent
David Goodfellow
Computer/EE Technology Specialist
What was the most difficult aspect of adjusting to work in Japan?
This was my first full-time role outside postgrad University and part-time work, so Japan wasn't the only transition to make. Working in an open-plan office with very few other foreigners was daunting, but then working in office conditions for the first time was daunting anyway. Travel to and from work was easy, and the early friendships I formed with my colleagues made the transition quite pleasant.
What were your fondest leisure experiences in Japan?
Where do I start? The food is fantastic wherever you go, from the tourist meccas to the little gems hidden down alleyways that only the locals know about. The travel is great; you can see so much in so little time. Weekend getaways are easy and fun. For me, summer was all about outdoor dining and festivals and winter was all about snowboarding and onsens. And once I knew where to go and what to see, I enjoyed showing visiting associates, friends and family around as well.
What did you like most about working in Osaka?
I visited most of the big cities, and consider Osaka the most relaxed and friendly. Whilst I was working in the middle of the city, it didn't feel crowded by people or buildings. It was easy to get around and find things of interest. On any given day I was able to either return straight home after a hard day's work or go out on the town depending on my mood. I worked hard at SY, but enjoyed the work and the location. I was able to dine, relax, get a haircut and workout at the gym all right there in the SY building, and even commute straight home from the basement. Osaka was very convenient and beautiful without feeling incessantly crowded.
What were your co-workers like?
Whilst Mr. Yamamoto was very evidently at the helm of the firm, there were good hierarchical structures and teams in place. The members of these structures and teams, whether foreign or Japanese, were always courteous and helpful. At times the language barrier was frustrating, for both sides, but nothing ever went unresolved. The amount of collaboration with colleagues across the organization was high and I enjoyed all my dealings with my co-workers.
What sort of work did you get and was it challenging?
The level and quality of the patent drafting, prosecution, strategy and enforcement work I received at SY was on par with that done by experienced patent attorneys anywhere in the world. The client portfolio was diverse and contained some of the largest consumer product corporations and innovation Universities. It wasn't until I pursued my own practice back in Australia that I realized the caliber of the clients and work I had gotten at SY at such an early stage of my career. I have also experienced what those at a similar stage receive in Australia and I am glad I started off abroad. I am very grateful for this, as it has given me an invaluable and unique outlook on how to approach patenting for all manner of different clients. I think getting this early and challenging work at SY has given me an edge and a progressive style. I am also grateful for Mr. Yamamoto's own direction and support as this has given me an irrepressible desire to always raise the bar and never take the easy way over the right way.
What advice would you give to entry level recruits?
It will be an enjoyable - and at times strange - experience, but never underestimate your ability to cut through to what's important. If you wish to pursue a career in intellectual property, SY is a great and unique place to start. The hours will be long, but fulfilling. The work will be varied, but challenging. The people you meet will be new, but may end up being lifelong friends. Enjoy Japan while you are there. Never miss an opportunity to experience the real Japan, the day-to-day life of the locals. I found that the most rewarding of all.