James E. Malackowski Earns Prestigious LES Gold Medal for Excellence in IP Licensing

A Historic Recognition in Intellectual Property Licensing

In an impressive accolade for the field of intellectual property (IP), James E. Malackowski, the co-founder of Ocean Tomo, has been awarded the prestigious Gold Medal by the Licensing Executives Society International (LESI). This esteemed recognition was presented during the 2025 LES International Annual Conference held in Singapore, making Malackowski the 31st recipient of this esteemed honor since its inception in 1971.

Mr. Malackowski’s recognition is not just a personal triumph, but a significant milestone in the IP community, solidifying his reputation as an innovator and leader in licensing strategies. The LES Gold Medal is awarded for exceptional contributions to the field, and Malackowski’s extensive work in this area has notably shaped the landscape of IP management and strategy.

A defining moment of his career came when he was inducted into the IP Hall of Fame in 2022, joining an elite group that includes only six other professionals who have received both the LES Gold Medal and IP Hall of Fame honors. Among these iconic figures, names like Dudley B. Smith and Francis Gurry resonate within the global IP arena, representing a legacy of excellence that Malackowski now shares.

Since 2007, Malackowski has been acknowledged annually by numerous prestigious publications, highlighting his influence in the industry. He has consistently been named as one of the 'World's Leading IP Strategists' and was featured in the National Law Journal's inaugural list of 50 Intellectual Property Trailblazers and Pioneers. Additionally, he has been selected by the World Economic Forum as a notable member of the Network of Global Agenda Councils, focusing on pressing questions of IP policy.

Malackowski’s contributions extend beyond awards and accolades; he has played a pivotal role in establishing a more efficient and transparent market for IP rights. His initiatives include overseeing the Ocean Tomo 300® Patent Index and leading the Intellectual Property Exchange International, pioneering efforts that have provided invaluable frameworks and markets for patent sales. His ongoing research into the transition of global markets from tangible to intangible assets has also found a wide audience, with his studies being downloaded over 150,000 times by interested parties worldwide.

In addition to his professional commitments, Malackowski dedicates significant efforts to philanthropic endeavors that support children and educational initiatives, particularly in underprivileged regions. His long-term involvement with organizations such as the National Inventors Hall of Fame, which enriches the educational experiences of thousands of students annually, showcases his commitment to leveraging science and innovation for societal benefit.

As a thought leader, Malackowski is a frequent speaker and commentator on the evolving landscape of technology and IP-related financial metrics. His insights have been shared on numerous prestigious media platforms including Bloomberg and CNBC, reflecting the strong demand for his expertise in the realm of intellectual property.

With a career marked by innovation, commitment, and excellence, Malackowski's recent honor not only underscores his past achievements but also sets the stage for future contributions to the world of intellectual property. His passion for advancing the field and supporting the next generation of innovators is a testament to his belief in the enduring importance of intellectual property in driving economic growth and fostering creativity.

In conclusion, James E. Malackowski's receipt of the LES Gold Medal is a celebration of his unwavering dedication to intellectual property and a reflection of the profound impact he has made in shaping the industry. As the landscape of IP continues to evolve, his leadership and vision will undoubtedly continue to inspire and influence future generations of licensing professionals.