The director of the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) announced earlier this week he will leave the position in January 2013 after holding the position for more than three years. During his tenure, Kappos oversaw the implementation of broad changes to the country’s patent system, including those required by the America Invents Act. Also during this time, the USPTO cut the backlog of unexamined patents from over 750,000 to approximately 605,000, despite an average increase of 5 percent in applications each year. It also reduced the amount of time that it takes to receive a first action on a patent application from 27 months to about 16 months.

Director Kappos made the following statement through the patent office communications staff:

“I believe we have made great progress in reducing the patent backlog, increasing operational efficiency, and exerting leadership in IP policy domestically and internationally … Thanks to the entire USPTO staff for their dedication and hard work. I wish them the very best as they continue their efforts to support the U.S. economy by promoting and protecting innovation.”

The White House has not named a replacement for Kappos.