Team size: 38

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

Over the past year, I have played a central role in several strategically significant projects for DHL’s Middle East and North Africa (MENA) legal function, including: supporting the acquisition of AJEX, which required navigating complex cross-border structuring and regulatory coordination; leading legal work on a high-profile UAE merger that demanded precise integration planning and compliance with both local laws and group governance standards; and steering the legal strategy for the establishment of our Regional Headquarters (RHQ) in Saudi Arabia in alignment with new government regulations, ensuring both operational flexibility and compliance.

I also contributed to shaping and delivering the annual global legal meeting, where regional perspectives and best practices were shared to strengthen alignment with DHL Group’s global legal strategy.

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

I believe that a modern in-house counsel must combine deep legal expertise with commercial acumen, adaptability, and cultural fluency — translating regulatory requirements into practical, business-enabling solutions, building trusted relationships across borders, and proactively managing risks in an evolving global environment.

How do you prioritise diversity and inclusion within your legal department, and what initiatives have you implemented to foster a more inclusive work environment?

Diversity and inclusion are integral to our success, and our MENA legal team, made up of about 60% women, reflects a truly global composition: 38 legal professionals across 11 countries, speaking 13 languages, operating across over ten complex jurisdictions, and representing over 60 nationalities in the Middle East and Africa. This diversity not only enriches our problem-solving and decision-making, but also strengthens our ability to serve a wide range of stakeholders with cultural awareness and insight.

I work to actively foster an inclusive environment where perspectives from different backgrounds are valued, collaboration across jurisdictions is encouraged, and development opportunities are accessible to all. This inclusive mindset is embedded in our approach to high-profile transactions such as the AJEX acquisition, UAE merger, and RHQ project, ensuring that legal strategies are informed by a broad range of expertise and viewpoints. By combining strategic legal insight, a commitment to diversity, and a collaborative approach, I aim to lead a legal function that operates not only as a guardian of compliance, but also as a forward-thinking partner, driving sustainable growth, organisational resilience, and business excellence.