Team size: 5

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

Over, the past 12 months I was aiming to prepare my team and the organisation for my absence during my maternity leave, which started in December 2024, in order to safeguard all legal interests of Samsung. One of the big projects was to update all Company Policies, including (but not limited to) the following:

Dawn Raid Guideline

Gifts and Hospitality Policy

Antitrust and Fair Competition Policy

Whistleblowing Policy

Data and Privacy Policy

Furthermore, we conducted two internal audits, one regarding our operation in the area of data protection, the other one in the area of compliance with competition law. The findings of these audits resulted in specific measures, which were implemented. In these two projects, which was lead by the Legal Team, we were working very closely with other departments (especially the Direct Sales Team, People Team and Customer Service Team) and with close involvement of the Management Team.

What do you think sets you apart from other in-house counsel?

I have been Head Legal Counsel at Samsung Austria for more than 14 years now and, during that time, have not only learned a lot about the business, the innovation of the products, and the complexity of the legal frameworks that apply to our business, but also about the importance of the financials of the company, which is essential for in-house counsel to understand. This had a great impact on how I look at the support I can give. One of my key strengths is to build and maintain good networking structures within the company, achieving great collaborations with other teams and promoting the benefit of legal support. My focus is to add value beyond traditional legal work. This includes helping shape deals and business models by advising on commercial strategy. Furthermore, in my dual role as Head of Legal and Compliance, another key value I am aiming for is Governance and Ethical Leadership by reinforcing corporate integrity.

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

The most important attributes of a modern in-house counsel, in my opinion, go far beyond legal know-how. Today’s legal advisors are expected to be strategic partners, business enablers and risk managers. Key attributes therefore not only include a deep understanding of relevant laws and regulations, but also the ability to interpret and apply them in a business context. Of course, it is essential that legal advisors understand the company’s industry, financials, operations and the changes in the industry. A commercial mindset and strategic thinking are key, as is the ability to think out of the box and keep up with the digital transformation.

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?

Yes, there are several important trends reshaping the legal landscape that in-house lawyers especially should stay aware of. These trends affect how legal services are delivered, how risk is managed and what is expected of legal professionals. This includes an increased focus on ESG, the regulatory complexity and globalisation, the rise of AI and Legal Tech, cybersecurity and data protection, remote and hybrid work culture and a greater demand for measurable legal value.