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

Over the past twelve months, I have been involved in various key projects across the organisation. Among others, this has included supporting the organisation with information security and artificial intelligence and contributing to the organisation’s efforts to strengthen its security posture, as well as developing a considered approach to the use and implications of AI.

I have also supported the assessment of the geopolitical landscape and its relevance to our investment activities. Given the increased global uncertainty, this has involved analysing how shifting geopolitical tensions may affect our risk assessments of the investment portfolio and investment opportunities. In this regard, I have also participated in the implementation of measures, for example, related to due diligence.

In addition, I have contributed to strategic matters within the organisation. This includes supporting assessments of how the company can play a meaningful role in improving access to capital in the Norwegian early-stage/venture market, and how it can contribute to attracting new investors into the asset class.

Beyond these areas, I have supported the day-to-day follow-up of the organisation’s fund and company investments, balancing commercial objectives with legal and ethical considerations.

As the in-house role continues to evolve from legal advisor to business partner, what strategies have you found most effective for stakeholder management and aligning legal advice with business strategy?

I find this a very interesting question, and I believe some of my approach has also been shaped by my Master of Management. One of the key advantages of working as an in-house lawyer is the close integration within the business, which provides a comprehensive overview and understanding of both risks and opportunities. I seek to leverage this understanding to create value for the organisation, as it forms a strong foundation for assessing the legal parameters for executing the business strategy.

In practical terms, I try to bring this into my work by getting involved early. Early involvement means that legal opportunities and constraints can be identified at an early stage. This in turn allows for course corrections along the way — rather than having to stop or change direction entirely at a later point. This enables the organisation to move fast with confidence.

Beyond early involvement, I find that managing the in-house role in a trustworthy and credible manner — and explaining legal matters in a clear and accessible way — makes communication with business stakeholders more efficient. I also strongly believe in cross-functional collaboration. When legal is seen as an approachable partner, it enables the provision of proactive and tailored advice that genuinely supports the organisation’s goals and strategy.

Is there a particular moment in your career as a lawyer that stands out or has shaped how you approach your role as general counsel?

There may not be one defining moment, but a curiosity that developed in my career as an external lawyer has shaped my approach. I became increasingly curious about how clients actually implemented the legal advice they received, and how that advice functioned within their organisations. That curiosity — and a desire for a more holistic understanding of the business — is something I have carried with me into my role as in-house counsel. I find this particularly valuable when, for example, assessing risk, aligning legal advice with business strategy, and ensuring that the advice I provide is not only legally sound, but also practical and meaningful in the context of the organisation.

Beyond your core legal role, are there any causes or initiatives you’re passionate about?

On this point, I would highlight my engagement with in-house lawyers and the in-house legal role, which has led me to initiate a network for in-house lawyers in my region. It is both educational and inspiring to regularly meet in-house lawyers from other companies. We work across many of the same themes, areas of law, and challenges — and I strongly believe in development through the sharing of knowledge and experience.