Team size: Four

How do you approach managing legal aspects during periods of instability or crises, and how does your legal strategy align with the broader business strategy to ensure the organisation’s resilience?

In times of crisis, I adhere to a specific structure. Firstly, I conduct a thorough risk assessment to identify potential legal challenges arising from the crisis. Subsequently, I prioritise risks based on their impact and likelihood. Secondly, I prioritise legal compliance, ensuring strict adherence to existing laws and regulations, while staying informed about any changes or emergency measures implemented during the crisis. It is essential to share policies and procedures to guarantee legal compliance within the organisation.

I review and, if necessary, renegotiate contract terms and conditions to manage the impact of the crisis on performance, deadlines, and obligations. I also consider force majeure clauses and other contractual provisions that may be triggered during crises.

I maintain open communication with all stakeholders – including employees, customers, suppliers, and regulatory authorities. Transparency about the organisation’s legal obligations, actions taken to address challenges, and any potential impact on stakeholders is vital.

I engage proactively with relevant regulatory entities to seek guidance, stay informed about changes in regulations, and collaborate on solutions that align with legal requirements.

Furthermore, it is important to foster cross-functional collaboration. I strive to foster collaboration between legal, risk management, commercial, operations, and other relevant departments to ensure a coordinated and comprehensive response to the crisis.

I stay agile and adaptable in response to evolving legal and business landscapes. Regular reassessment of legal counsel is conducted to address emerging challenges and opportunities.

These actions and criteria help integrate the legal department with business needs and face periods of instability with confidence.

What measures has your company taken to embed sustainability practices into its core business operations, and how does the role of the general counsel contribute to driving and ensuring sustainable practices within the company?

We prioritise integrating sustainability considerations into the overall business strategy, ensuring that environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors are considered in decision-making processes. For instance, our company is using 100% renewable electricity for our factory in Lima, thereby significantly reducing our carbon emissions and supporting our ambition to make snacks that are right for people and the planet.

We are also enhancing our supply chain sustainability by implementing sustainable sourcing and supply chain practices, including responsible procurement, ethical sourcing, and efforts to reduce the environmental impact of the supply chain. For example, the Cocoa Life Program is a long-term journey aimed at creating a vibrant, strong cocoa supply chain while growing opportunities to transform the livelihoods of farmers and their communities.