First, can you please give us an idea of the sort of work your team has done recently (cases, transactions, projects, anything like that)? 

We ensure operational, commercial and strategic legal and compliance advice to BASF’s regional management, services and operating divisions in Central Europe, where BASF operates through entities based in Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Greece, Hungary, Poland, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia and Slovenia. In addition, we cover Israel. This includes legal advice on regional projects–for example, the investment into a new enzyme production site in Kundl, Austria or the acquisition of a software company for livestock farm management in Slovakia–as well as the implementation of global projects, for instance the carve-out and divestment of BASF’s construction chemical’s business in 2020.

What is a cause, business related or otherwise, that you care about, and why?

I care about sustainability, both as regards clients and products as well as when providing advice. BASF’s cause, “we create chemistry for a sustainable future” fits in with this very nicely. It is a promise linked directly to the product of the company and directed to addressing a key issue relevant for us and future generations.

If you had to give advice to an aspiring in-house lawyer or general counsel, what would it be and why?

Aim to become your clients’ trusted advisor. This requires a 360-degree understanding of your clients and their businesses, including production, operations, competitive environment, required resources and dependencies, strategic approach, and cultural aspects. Dare to ask, dare to challenge, be eager to learn and engage, take ownership, build relationships and do not be afraid of the engine room.