Counsel | IBM Japan
Satomi Tanaka
Counsel | IBM Japan
What are the most significant cases, projects and transactions that you and your legal team have recently been involved in?
I played a pivotal role in leading a complex commercial dispute, demonstrating strategic leadership and legal expertise throughout critical phases of the process.
This includes organisation and analysis of the facts and chronology of events to ensure that all relevant details were clearly understood and effectively utilised in decision-making; actively supporting negotiations with the counterparty, leveraging my legal expertise to facilitate constructive dialogue while safeguarding the company’s interests; and preparation of correspondence that addressed sensitive and nuanced issues.
At critical phases, we provided actionable and practical advice by presenting a range of strategic options, thoroughly evaluating their pros and cons, and offering clear recommendations to guide the company’s approach. We also took bold and decisive actions when necessary, ensuring our integrity and long-term interests were upheld.
What is a cause, business or otherwise, that you are passionate about? Why is this?
I am passionate about supporting businesses that strive to create a better world, do the right thing, embrace inclusion and diversity, and contribute to a good society. As an in-house lawyer at an IT company, I believe that businesses have a unique opportunity to drive positive change through ethical practices, innovation, and inclusivity. My role allows me to ensure that legal and business decisions align with these values, fostering trust and sustainability. Mission to create a better future through the power of technology resonates deeply with me, and I find great fulfilment in contributing to this vision as part of a large organisation.
How do you approach managing legal aspects during periods of instability or crisis to ensure the organisation’s resilience?
In the event of a crisis, it is essential to anticipate a range of worst-case scenarios and be mentally prepared to respond to any situation. To that end, I proactively develop action plans for each potential scenario and ensure alignment with internal stakeholders in advance. Recognising that there is rarely a single, definitive approach to managing a crisis, I, as legal counsel, provide a range of options along with an analysis of their respective advantages and disadvantages from a legal standpoint, enabling management to make an informed decision. Moreover, when executing these actions, it is critical to prioritise the company’s reputation and credibility, alongside legal and contractual considerations. As such, I work closely with the Communications team to ensure cohesive and strategic messaging.