Team size: 2

What do you think are the most important attributes for a modern in-house counsel to possess?

A modern in-house counsel needs to possess a variety of different skills to succeed. One of the most critical is the ability to navigate an increasingly complex regulatory landscape – from data privacy and ESG requirements to industry-specific rules. This demands not only legal expertise, but also the foresight to anticipate change and guide the business proactively.

Success requires a deep understanding of both law and business, ensuring legal strategies align with corporate goals. In fast-paced environments, in-house lawyers must deliver clear, actionable advice that balances agility with sound judgment and risk management.

Strong communication and collaboration are equally vital. In-house counsel act as a bridge between legal and business teams, translating legal concepts into practical guidance and embedding legal thinking into strategic decisions. This includes influencing leadership, managing external counsel, and fostering a culture of compliance and ethics.

How can general counsel foster a corporate culture that supports ESG principles and compliance across all levels of the organiaation?

Building on the above, the general counsel has an important role in fostering a culture of compliance – one that genuinely values ESG principles. This includes embedding ESG into governance and risk frameworks and advising on the legal aspects of ESG-related risks and opportunities. The general counsel’s influence is most effective when reinforcing ESG values from a legal and ethical perspective, working closely with sustainability and compliance teams to ensure ESG goals are pursued responsibly and lawfully, and with a clear understanding of risks.