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

Key major projects for us last year included acquiring a copy of the complete technology stack behind our current technology platform and relocating hardware production from outside the EU to a manufacturer within the EU. Another significant project was the integration of AI-powered chat support into our mobile app, which combines real-time assistance with artificial intelligence. Additionally, we have strengthened our vendor processes over the past year and have significantly improved our commitment to our Supplier’s Code of Conduct.

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

Commercial mindset, strategic thinking, and a solid legal and ethical compass are all essential attributes, alongside good collaboration and communication skills. To effectively support a company’s success, it is important for modern in-house counsel to have a comprehensive understanding of the company’s business, including the commercial and legal landscape in which it operates. Being closely connected to management and key strategic matters, while simultaneously understanding the effects on day-to-day business, is also vital for providing good support and anticipating opportunities and legal issues.

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?

Like many others, AI is something we are following closely. It’s quite interesting how some businesses spend days and even weeks to negotiate NDA wording to protect business information, while at the same time having no policies in place to ensure that employees do not upload business sensitive information to “public” AI tools, where you don’t necessarily know where the information is sent to, what it is used for, or if others can access the information. In 2024, we adopted an AI policy to ensure legal and responsible AI practices within the group, and we have conducted several training courses on the matter. Everyone should be mindful about the responsible use of AI.