Assistant general counsel and director | Aramark Deutschland
Katharina Johannsen
Assistant general counsel and director | Aramark Deutschland
Have you had any experiences during your career as a lawyer that stand out as particularly unique or interesting?
One of the most fascinating aspects of my work has been navigating the intercultural dimensions of GDPR compliance across Europe (and beyond). While we share a single legislative framework on data protection, the way that framework is interpreted and enforced varies from country to country. Working with diverse stakeholders across EU member states – and coordinating with colleagues in the US – I’ve seen how subtle legal and cultural differences can affect implementation. It’s always essential to pause and ensure that when we discuss a specific requirement or scenario, we truly share the same understanding. That mutual calibration – confirming we’re all talking about the same concepts in the same way – has been one of the most rewarding and intellectually stimulating parts of my career.
Is there a cause, within or outside the business world, that you are particularly passionate about, and how has it shaped your approach as a future leader in the legal profession?
I’m deeply passionate about gender equality in the legal profession. When I look at the history of women in law in Germany – Maria Otto was the first female lawyer admitted in December 1922 – and today around 57 % of law students are women, it’s clear how far we’ve come, yet also how far we still have to go. Senior roles remain predominantly male, and that contrast has shaped my perspective.
For me, this is not just a statistic; it’s something I’ve experienced personally. Building a career in a field that was historically male-dominated has taught me resilience and the importance of confidence. It has also reinforced my belief that representation matters: when women see others thriving in these roles, it changes what they believe is possible. That awareness influences how I approach my work every day: with a commitment to excellence and authenticity, knowing that my presence itself can help normalize diversity in leadership.