What are the key projects that you have been involved in over the past 12 months?

The key project I was involved in over the past 12 months was the Phase 2 expansion works at Larnaka and Pafos International Airports. Following months of negotiations with the Government of Cyprus, in December 2024 we managed to reach an agreement for the construction of Phase 2 expansion works at Larnaka and Pafos International Airports along with the resolution of outstanding claims and commercial issues under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) contract between Hermes Airports Ltd and the Republic of Cyprus for the development and operation of the two airports.

From December 2024 until March 2025, the Legal Affairs department worked diligently for the successful completion of the financing agreements for the funding of the project and of all agreements required for the construction of the Phase 2 expansion works. In March 2025, the financing process was completed successfully with the signing of all agreements with the banks which are financing the project. The total cost of the Phase 2 expansion works is €170m and will be fully covered by Hermes Airports Ltd. A Design & Build agreement was also signed with the joint venture Bouygues Batiment International SAS and Iacovou Brothers (Constructions) Ltd, which has undertaken the construction of the Phase 2 works. At the same time, following a selection process with the participation of the Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Works, the company performing the duties of the Independent Engineer monitoring the progress of the works based on the agreed specifications and timelines, was selected and appointed.

The Phase 2 expansion works are a significant milestone for Hermes Airports Ltd. At Larnaka International Airport, the works will cover a total area of around 20,000 square meters, including the creation of a new annex building with departure and arrival gates connected to the main terminal building, additional baggage reclaim belts, a new area for passport and security checks, an expansion of the commercial area, and an increase in aircraft parking spaces. As for Pafos International Airport, the works will increase the terminal’s capacity by approximately 30%, significantly improving the passenger experience and the efficiency of checks and procedures. At the same time, the southern parallel taxiway will be extended, enhancing the operational flexibility of the airport.

What do you think are the most important attributes for a modern in-house counsel to possess?

A modern in-house counsel must combine strong legal expertise with strategic business insight and cost management, acting not just as a legal advisor but as a key business partner. An in-house counsel needs sharp commercial acumen, robust negotiation skills, and the judgment to balance legal risk with business goals. Adaptability, emotional intelligence, ethical integrity, the ability to communicate clearly across all levels of the organisation and a proactive approach to risk management are essential, as are proficiency in technology and commitment to continuous learning.

Based on your experiences in the past year, are there any trends in the legal or business world that you are keeping an eye on, of which you think other in-house lawyers should be mindful?

In-house lawyers are operating in a rapidly changing environment, underscored by advancements in technology, evolving regulations and shifting business models. From data privacy laws to ESG reporting requirements, regulatory environments across industries are evolving at an unprecedented pace and in-house lawyers should stay abreast of developments.

Cyber threats grow in complexity and directors face increasing legal obligation to manage cyber vulnerabilities and ensure robust security protocols. It is therefore essential for in-house lawyers to deepen their expertise in these areas as they play a critical role in advising management and stakeholders on data protection, regulatory compliance, incident response and digital risk mitigation. In-house lawyers should prioritise continuous learning to ensure organisational compliance and manage risk.