Team size: approx. 90

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

I have been involved in different corporate transactions, such as corporate splits and mergers of the Bank’s vehicles. I have also been involved in the negotiation of different funding instruments.

Can you describe an instance where your legal advice directly influenced business strategy or commercial objectives?

Since joining the company, one of my main objectives has been to actively contribute to driving the business forward and supporting the achievement of its strategic goals. In particular, we have promoted the implementation of new structures, such as intangible asset leasing, with the aim of boosting operations while simultaneously ensuring robust legal risk mitigation.

How has the role of general counsel evolved, and what are the most important attributes for the modern in-house lawyer?

I believe that the role of general counsel has evolved significantly. Traditionally, in-house counsel had a more operational and control-oriented function. Today, however, the role is strategic: legal counsel must be involved from the very beginning of a business initiative through to its completion, rather than only at the final stage as a means of formalising transactions that have already been structured.

Additionally, today’s in-house lawyer must have a deep understanding of the business they support and be able to use that knowledge to propose strategies and contribute meaningfully to the company’s development.

Have you had any particularly unique or defining experiences during your legal career?

I believe that all professionals encounter one or more defining moments in their careers. For me, it was a moment of change. I had spent many years at a company in a leadership role, having grown with the organisation since its early days and played a key part in its development. Over time, I reached a point of comfort, yet one where further growth opportunities had become limited.

At that crossroads, I was presented with an opportunity far outside my comfort zone. Choosing to embrace that challenge required conviction, but it proved to be a pivotal decision, one that significantly accelerated my professional growth and expanded my perspective.