Legal team size: 166

What are the projects that you are most proud of working on over the past 12 months?

I am incredibly proud of our successful execution of two major initiatives over the past 12 months, which have significantly strengthened our company’s strategic position. First, we entered into a landmark agreement with RGA to reinsure 75% of our in-force life insurance block, which reduces exposure to mortality risk, improves our financial position, and enhances focus on our key growth engines of retirement, asset management, and wealth management. Subsequently, we completed a tender offer to increase our existing ownership in AllianceBernstein, improving our business mix and cash flow profile.

These accomplishments were made possible by the legal team’s exceptional expertise and dedication, as they navigated complex regulatory landscapes. Throughout these transactions, our legal team demonstrated immense value and engaged with colleagues across the business to ensure successful execution.

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 that you think other in-house lawyers should be mindful of?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is dramatically transforming the business landscape by enhancing efficiency, automating processes, and creating new opportunities for innovation. This rapid adoption demands that companies make complex, high-stakes decisions swiftly, necessitating real-time legal advice to ensure AI-powered innovations align with evolving regulations, ethical considerations, and risk management frameworks. In-house lawyers play a crucial role in helping stakeholders navigate these complexities by balancing innovation with compliance and mitigating risks related to data privacy and security. AI is also revolutionising legal operations by streamlining workflows such as contract management and risk assessment, allowing legal teams to focus on strategic tasks. However, these advancements require lawyers to continually update their knowledge about AI governance and regulatory landscapes to ensure that AI remains legally sound and ethically responsible.

What are the key things you prioritise to get the most out of your team?

To get the most out of my team, I prioritise empowerment, clear communication, and support. I encourage team members to take ownership of their work and make confident decisions, fostering an environment where open communication and collaboration allow diverse perspectives and ideas to flourish. Professional growth is also a key focus, as I invest in mentorship and leadership development to help team members expand their skills and advance in their careers. Ultimately, my goal is to create an atmosphere of mutual trust and accountability.