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

The pandemic has revolutionised the way we approach work. It is essential to retain the positives from the Covid experience, particularly the concepts of resilience, flexibility, and commitment. As we advance, it will be crucial to focus on accommodating personal choices on work models, so that team members can keep flourishing without compromising teamwork or the ability to provide uninterrupted support to the business. Legal leaders must constantly improve communication with the team and internal clients to maintain the right balance. The pandemic has emphasised the value that legal teams add to the business, especially when navigating unchartered territories and guiding the company through challenges. Covid is not a fleeting phenomenon, and in-house legal teams must prioritise business continuity and ensure that companies maintain agility with the law. In an increasingly dynamic and complex regulatory landscape, we need to provide pragmatic solutions.

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

Navigating the global economic turbulence caused by the pandemic while focusing on key strategic to promote growth (together with contingency plans for future challenges) will be the priority on the business agenda in the coming 12 months. Legal provides input into the strategic pillars from a risk perspective to ensure the practical implementation of business goals.

The pandemic has been a catalyst for our digital strategy and has placed technology at the forefront of our activities. The legal team will continue to support both this transition and the increased focus on digital to ensure operating models that meet the needs of the business and our customers.

Similarly, attracting and retaining the best talent and striving to create a diverse, flexible workplace that is as attractive to employees as it is effective for internal customers and the business at large is a key objective.

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

In-house lawyers get under the skin of the business to provide tailored and practical advice. The close relationship with internal clients and access to top management, paired with the ability to influence at a higher level of the decision-making process, are opportunities that do not happen in private practice. While there is a narrower variety of clients and sectors, in-house lawyers are more like generalists, expected to advise on diverse areas of law, having the opportunity to expand their legal knowledge and strengthen their skillset. One of the cons is the impact that in-house legal roles have on work-life balance.