Team size: Six

Can you describe a time when the legal department had to balance risk mitigation with enabling business innovation?

A few years ago, we encountered the challenge of addressing the issuance of an unlawful regulation in our country that prohibited the provision of our outsourcing services. My team undertook the meticulous task of reviewing each improvement plan to ensure that any implementation would not result in legal contingencies that could jeopardise our operations or serve as grounds for claiming that our contracts were being altered.

How do you build and maintain strong relationships with key internal stakeholders, especially in high-pressure or fast-moving scenarios?

It is imperative to effectively communicate the significance of the legal process to key internal stakeholders, enabling them to recognise that my team and I are focused on adding value to their processes and reinforcing the overarching purpose of the organisation.

What do you consider the biggest challenge for in-house legal teams today, and how are you addressing it within your own team?

The foremost challenge is transitioning from being mere executors or consultants to becoming genuine managers of legal compliance. This transformation is essential to ensure that the company’s focus and resources are not diverted toward litigation, but rather concentrated on preventive measures and providing support that allows operational departments to focus on their core functions.

How do you cultivate legal talent internally, and what skills do you see as most essential for the next generation of in-house lawyers?

Several years ago, I proactively recruited a senior attorney recognised by specialised publications, with the intent of familiarising her with the operational dynamics of companies within the mining sector, thereby positioning her as a potential successor upon my departure. I have fostered an environment of recognition, learning, and experiential opportunities to empower her in her interactions with our clients and suppliers. I am confident that she is well-equipped to assume responsibility for the area. Similarly, I have prioritised ensuring that my direct reports possess the autonomy and transparency to contribute their insights and collaborate on their professional development for the roles they aspire to fulfill.

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?

Our organisation has not only embraced an axiological framework, policies, and best practices concerning environmental sustainability and governance, but through my team, we are actively engaged in raising awareness among employees regarding project initiatives. We strive to convey the importance of aligning our efforts with the overarching goal of enhancing the mining industry by creating value and promoting well-being, communicated in a clear, concise, and direct manner.