What are the key projects that you have been involved in over the past 12 months?

I have supported several strategic initiatives over the last year across our insurance and intermediary business units. I advised our Employer Solutions business on how to best support our corporate clients for the implementation of the Automatic Enrolment Retirement Savings System Act, which represented one of the most significant developments in retirement savings in the history of the State. I also provided support on the implications of the Digital Operational Resilience Act across our businesses. I advised on the development of The Platform Quarter, a new platform experience for independent advisers and brokers. It is the first platform of its kind in Ireland and marked a major milestone for the Irish Life Group.

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

Our job is to identify and manage both actual and potential risks and try to provide creative and practical solutions. To do this, in-house counsel need to understand and seek to advance the strategic goals of the business. So, the role is broader than the traditional management of legal risk alone. Proactivity rather than reactivity is important, as is curiosity about the direction in which the business is travelling and the ability to anticipate in advance where legal support may be required. Our work involves strategic thinking, and strong collaborative and communication skills. Participation in internal steering groups and “commercial” working groups is extremely helpful in successfully aligning the support you provide with the goals of the business, so don’t be afraid to ask for a seat at the table.

Based on your experiences in the past year, are there any trends in the legal or business world that you are keeping an eye on, of which you think other in-house lawyers should be mindful?

Legal tech and AI are fast moving, and every in-house team is working hard to keep pace with it. In-house teams are leading the way in understanding and operationalising the obligations and responsibilities of the EU AI Act.