Murgitroyd colleagues recognised among the World’s Top Influential Women in IP Law

Murgitroyd is proud to announce that four colleagues have been recognised in the Top 100 Influential Women Leaders in IP Law: Champions of Leadership, Innovation, and Global Influence 2026, a prestigious ranking celebrating women who are shaping the future of the intellectual property profession. #

Catherine Bonner ranked #1 for Excellence in IP Management for Emerging Markets #

Recognising her exceptional leadership and contributions to the IP community, Catherine Bonner has been ranked first in the Excellence in IP Management for Emerging Markets category.

Catherine’s top ranking reflects her work supporting emerging IP infrastructures. As Chair of the AIPPI PCT Committee, and through her training work with WIPO on new technical standards, Catherine has played a significant role in improving international patent practices and compliance readiness across Asia and other emerging markets.

Beth Marshall ranked #1 for Pioneering IP Work in Sector-Specific Tech & Innovation #

Ranked number one in the Pioneering IP Work in Sector-Specific Tech & Innovation category, Beth Marshall has been recognised for being at the forefront of emerging and transformative technologies.

Beth’s ranking reflects her pivotal role in managing complex patent portfolios and leading IP strategy in highly innovative and technology-driven sectors. Her work in sector-specific innovation and IP due diligence places her at the cutting edge of IP strategy for technologies shaping the next decade.

Wendy Crosby ranked #3 for IP Enforcement & Anti-Counterfeiting Leadership #

Wendy Crosby has been ranked third in the IP Enforcement & Anti-Counterfeiting Leadership category, recognising her expertise and impact in high-stakes patent enforcement.

With a 36-year career spanning patent prosecution and enforcement, Wendy’s strategic advocacy in highly technical forums has been instrumental in defending and enforcing valuable patent rights on an international stage.

Karen Fraser ranked #9 for Thought Leadership in IP Law & Practice #

Due to her long-standing influence and patent expertise, Karen Fraser has been ranked number nine in the Thought Leadership in IP Law & Practice category.

With over 20 years of experience, Karen provides strategic leadership, overseeing and mentoring teams of patent attorneys while guiding clients through complex patent matters. Her sustained senior-level practice confirms her standing as a respected thought leader in the profession.

Celebrating leadership and global impact #

These rankings place Catherine, Beth, Wendy and Karen among a select group of women influencing the direction of IP worldwide.

Their recognition reflects both individual excellence and Murgitroyd’s continued contribution to leadership, innovation and international influence across the global IP community.