Legal team size: 2 members

Major legal advisers/ external counsel: ENS Africa

What country you are based in? Kenya

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

Embracing technology (particularly A.I) at a larger scale within all levels of business. This has become the newest and most impactful trend that has seen businesses across the board integrating technological tools in order to increase efficiency, cut on costs and improve output.

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

Yes, working on acquisition of new properties, preparing documentation for the enhancement of our different properties across the region and synergising with government on different projects including negotiating better contracting terms that focus on further driving sustainability and innovation in our properties intrigues me.

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

We manage legal risks in order to ensure at every level the company is protected. We also furnish advisory services to our board and management so that they are always one step ahead in terms of the legal environment and this enables the board and management to make better strategic decisions in the hospitality landscape. Furthermore, the legal department contributes to the overall strategy of the company by aligning its own strategy to the overarching company goals and working towards its contribution points.

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

We synergise both in and outside the office. Apart from offering the usual legal support in the course of our duty, we support the business teams by contributing to their general marketing and sales goals and targets where possible. We also focus on prioritising their needs, sometimes working above and beyond to ensure they meet tight timelines.