Team Size: Nine

How has your role as in-house counsel evolved over the past few years, particularly in response to shifting global or regional dynamics?

With over 18 years of experience as a lawyer, my role as in-house counsel within a financial institution has evolved significantly. I have learned that a corporate lawyer must make decisions grounded in legal principles and sound judgment, always weighing the risks to which the company is exposed. Today, I see myself not only as a legal advisor but also as a strategic partner, supporting the company in achieving its objectives while ensuring legal compliance.

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

Strong relationships with internal clients are built on trust and a clear commitment to supporting their goals. I always strive to assure stakeholders that the legal team will make every effort to help them generate value for the organisation. Open communication, reliability, and understanding their business needs are essential to maintaining these relationships, particularly in high-pressure situations.

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

The greatest challenge for in-house legal teams is to support decision-making processes while prioritising regulatory compliance, business ethics, sustainability, and effective risk management. Within my team, I emphasise the importance of these pillars, fostering a culture of integrity and continuous learning. We work closely with other departments to ensure that legal considerations are integrated into all aspects of the company’s operations, thereby contributing to sustainable and responsible business growth.