Team size: 7

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

In 2023, Orkla changed its corporate structure and transformed into an industrial investment company with ownership in more independent portfolio companies. The key priorities for Orkla in the strategy period 2023-2026 are to drive organic value in existing portfolio, reduce complexity in existing portfolio and perform value-adding structural transactions. Orkla Legal’s tasks are closely tied to the key strategic priorities, and thus focusing on corporate governance, M&A and structural projects, IP and marketing, sales/distribution and competition law. Orkla Legal has been involved in several important structural projects the last year at both portfolio company level and Orkla ASA level, including the Orkla India IPO.

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

In-house counsel need to be team players and work closely with other functions and across the organisation. In-house counsel need to deeply understand the strategy of the company and support the company in reaching this strategy, providing clear communication and practical advice. In the jungle of current and incoming new regulations, in-house counsel have an important role to prioritise and help businesses navigate and understand what is “license to operate”, what is critical to reach business goals and what could be acceptable risk.

Given Norway’s emphasis on ESG, what role do GCs play in embedding these principles across the organisation?

Fostering a culture that supports ESG principles and compliance – a culture of integrity – is a joint effort. ESG should be fully integrated in business strategy and plans. Legal, Compliance and ESG teams need to work closely together and be aligned. Regular training for BoDs and management teams are important. GC needs to be clear on legal requirements, roles and responsibilities on different levels of the organisation and consequences of non-compliance. Equally importantly, they need to be clear on business opportunities and that culture of integrity that supports value creation.