Legal team size: 18

What trends do you foresee in the legal landscape over the next 5–10 years that companies should prepare for?

Given the rise of generative AI, companies should embrace the use of AI for various tasks, including but not limited to, legal research, credit scoring and fraud detection. This will increase efficiency and manage costs. Therefore, companies should adopt AI and integrate legal tech, and legal teams should be equipped to advise on AI risks, draft adequate AI policies and review tech contracts for liability exposure.

Companies should also prepare for ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) legal risk. There is a probability of increased litigation risks in relation to sustainability claims, supply chain accountability and climate reporting, considering the increased pressure to assess climate risks and support green finance. Companies should, therefore, embed ESG considerations in contracts and risk assessments and also stay informed on global ESG Taxonomies

Regulatory complexity and compliance expansion should also be considered. There is an increase in cross border regulations (data privacy, ESG, anti-money laundering, etc.). It is therefore paramount that companies do increase/invest in horizon-scanning tools and compliance automation, to ensure compliance at all times.

Have you had any experiences during your career as a lawyer that stand out as particularly unique or interesting?

As a Senior Legal counsel at a leading financial institution, I have been embedded in cross functional task force(s) and handled complex partnership structures, including but not limited to, engagements with Fintech providers and Mobile Money platforms, shareholders agreements, technology agreements, Sovereign Debt Security Agreements, JVs, collaboration agreements, business formation contracts/documents, confidentiality agreements, NDAs, non-compete and non-solicit contracts, intellectual property contracts, service contracts, and various security agreements.

How does your team contribute to the overall business strategy of the company?

The legal team contributes to the overall business strategy not only by identifying and mitigating against legal risks before they materialise, in contracts, investments, new markets, and partnerships, but also actively enabling growth by providing solutions that ensure compliance and the protection of value.

How are you bringing the legal department closer to your business colleagues?

As a Head of Legal, my objective is to position the legal function as a strategic partner – not just as a risk mitigator. This involves aligning legal with business goals, improving accessibility and embedding legal insights into day-to-day decision making.