Team size: 5

What are the key trends that in-house counsel should be monitoring in 2026?

AI and how it is changing and affecting the work of lawyers, but also the entire business environment; and this may even be more so from the perspective of the risks and threats that arise and, consequently, business security, than from a positive perspective—opportunities for improvement and better results at work

Broadly understood wage transparency – and everything that comes with it, because it is not just a specific, formal change; it is a bit like a revolution – positive, but always carrying some risks and perhaps somewhat related to this like caring for your own well-being and that of your team, with an increasing number of regulations, requirements, and, consequently, work in general – the ability to prioritise, give up, and focus on what is really important and using AI as a support in achieving these goals

Are there any upcoming challenges that in-house teams should be preparing for over the next twelve months?

In my opinion, this will include everything related to supply chain compliance and preparation for CSDDD, in particular like a consistent and comprehensive strategy for implementing CSDDD in cooperation with businesses, suppliers, and dealers/clients, sanctions and other tools regulating markets (customs), especially their multi-level nature and volatility.

Another challenge, which already exists today, will be to build teams composed of people representing different generations and, consequently, different values, approaches, and competencies. I see this as a fascinating challenge, one that requires openness and honest communication, but the results can be spectacular.

And, of course, preparing the business from a legal perspective for effective and secure operation in the VUCA/BANI world.