What are the most significant cases and transactions that your legal team has recently been involved in?

I provided legal advice to the WW HP Channel Strategy team on the roll-out, management, expansion, and evolution of HP Amplify, a first-of-its-kind global channel partner program optimised to drive dynamic partner growth and deliver consistent end-customer experiences. I acted as a thought leader in the global environment by advising on the data collaboration pillar of HP Amplify and on complex laws and regulations and their wide-reaching implications for local or regional operations. I acted as the central legal advisor to coordinate, streamline and supervise partner risk and compliance, including consequence management.

How do you feel the pandemic has changed the world of work for in-house counsel and the function of the general counsel?

I did not perceive any significant change in my work modus operandi during by the pandemic. However, I observed a shift in how consumers and customers purchased IT products and services at the time. Some business trends, such as online sales, subscription-based models and hybrid working, which all existed before the pandemic, were subject to a spectacular market acceleration.

What will be the main focus for the company in the next 12 months and how do you intend to assist with this?

As we move into 2022, I look forward to building upon the successful foundation set with the launch of HP Amplify. I am set to support the HP team further with the legal aspects of partner data reporting and enrichment and the launch of Data Insights, which creates a common point of reference that powers partner sales with innovative marketing resources, supply-chain optimisation, customer service enablement, and other business intelligence resources that result in better experiences and outcomes for partners and customers.

What do you feel are the pros and cons of an in-house legal role compared to a private practice one?

I only see pros. I feel like I am part of the team and enjoy the true privilege of engaging – most of the time, at least – in a proactive lawyering mode. I particularly appreciate influencing the design of business solutions, and having full end-to-end visibility on how my legal advice is used by my business clients.