Team size: 20 members globally

What are the most significant cases, projects, or transactions that you and your legal team have recently been involved in?

Green and Smart Mobility JSC (GSM), established in March 2023 as part of the Vingroup ecosystem of operating companies, provides transportation services using electric vehicles and offers an online platform for transportation and related booking services (App Xanh SM). I have been working at GSM since August 2023.

Our legal team has actively supported GSM’s rapid investment expansion. We have assisted with the establishment of branches, obtaining business and transportation licenses, and setting up the e-commerce platform for the company’s objectives. Within 16 months of its founding, GSM established a presence in 55 provinces across Vietnam, operating 80,000 cars and bikes.

During GSM’s first year, we participated in consulting and finalising the necessary licenses, transaction structures, contracts, and internal processes, as well as drafting legal documents to support taxi, ride-hailing, bike transportation, and express delivery services via the platform.

We also advise on transaction structures, legal relationships, and labour issues, managing labour relations for more than 40,000 employees. Additionally, we conduct legal research in foreign markets, coordinate with overseas law firms, and support international investment projects, successfully entering three foreign markets: Laos, Indonesia, and the Philippines.

How do you approach managing legal aspects during periods of instability or crisis to ensure the organisation’s resilience?

From a personnel management perspective, I focus on building a lean team. Internal legal personnel are organised into two levels, with the Legal Director directly managing legal experts to ensure optimal resolution of work in terms of cost and time. I also organise internal training on legal topics and efficient work practices, while leading and motivating the team to achieve professional success.

In terms of work quality assurance, I plan work areas according to the company’s business activities, draft contract templates, and develop work and legal guidelines to save time for functional departments. Internal legal audits are conducted to cross-check and reassess legal issues and risks, ensuring timely resolution and recovery.

Regarding legal issue management, I simplify complex matters, focus on problem-solving, and provide comprehensive solutions that can be flexibly applied in business. Legal advice is delivered in a clear and concise manner to facilitate practical application by the organisation.

Have you had any experiences during your career as a lawyer that stand out as particularly unique or interesting?  

One of the most interesting experiences I have had is leading a global legal team. The four countries in which we operate differ significantly in terms of local culture and individual characteristics, which influence how work is conducted. I have found it essential to understand each country’s culture and the traits of its people in order to adopt tailored approaches to managing both the team and the work, ensuring successful outcomes. Effective communication and a genuine respect for local practices and perspectives are decisive factors in achieving successful teamwork.

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

In my opinion, the most important attributes for a modern in-house counsel are the ability to simplify complex legal issues, a deep understanding of the law, a strong business mindset, attention to detail in pursuing objectives, and the capacity to provide comprehensive and timely legal solutions.