Team size: 90

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

We have been involved in the largest European M&A transaction in the last decade for the downstream sector of TotalEnergies. It required significant and complex legal work for the preparation of retail stations businesses to be sold by TotalEnergies to Automobile Couche Tard in Germany and the Netherlands, as well as the formation of a joint venture in Belgium and Luxembourg.

Additionally, we have been involved in governance, ensuring the smooth presentation of our sustainability and climate progress report to the general assembly of shareholders, while securing a large majority, 90%, for the advisory opinion of the AGM. We have also been assisting in managing the third shareholders’ resolution on this topic since 2021.

Could you share an example of a time when you came up with an innovation that improved how your legal team works and did not come at a large expense?

We have been developing a reporting app using the Microsoft App Toolbox at a minimal cost to efficiently retrieve reliable information on key performance indicators 9KPIs) for anti-corruption efforts, including due diligence, training, and alert investigations.

What are some of your main tips for dealing with a crisis?

Form a small team of core management members to collaborate, share ideas, voice concerns, and encourage mutual challenges. Most importantly, keep calm, get good sleep, and exercise as much as possible.

How do you see the general counsel role evolving in France over the next five-ten years?

I foresee general counsel assuming a more strategic position concerning governance and strategy, encompassing ESG initiatives, shareholder engagement, and ensuring the proper exercise of board duties, within the context of large global corporations. This is especially pertinent as the global fragmentation of the world order increases, leading to increased regulatory intervention.

How important is choosing to work with external lawyers who align with your company’s values? Are you likely to reconsider what firms you work with based on this?

Yes, we have included diversity and inclusion KPIs in our panel selection process, and we are founding members of the Diversity and Inclusion General Counsel initiative.

How do you suggest in-house lawyers build strong relationships with business partners?

Make sure that there are occasions where you are actually meeting and working with your business partners in person.