What has been the number one challenge that has impacted you over the past year?

Last year, we faced two major challenges, with cybersecurity as the first. Secondly, it was difficult to navigate newly introduced regulatory frameworks such as the Vertical Block Exemption Regulation (VBER) and Vertical Guidelines (Guidelines) issued by the European Commission.

Do you have an example of a time when you have come up with an innovation that improved how your legal team works that did not result in a large expense?

In 2013, the International Association for Contract and Commercial Management (IACCM) recognised our work on contract process simplification (standardised pre-approved private and public sector templates and commercial norms) and the global accounts initiative. Both initiatives won us the Strategic Innovation Award and resulted in more proactive legal engagement with clients and HP gained a reputation for its ease of doing business.

What would you say are the unique qualities required to be successful as an in-house lawyer in your industry?

I believe it is crucial for in-house lawyers to thoroughly understand the business carried out by internal and external clients. In the IT industry, good judgment is critical, alongside speed, agility, and innovative skills.