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

A key project I was involved in last year was the IC demerger. It was a multi-layered project in which the legal function played one of the key roles. It was successfully delivered, and the IC company is now officially a standalone listed company.

What are the key trends that in-house counsel should be monitoring in 2026?

In my opinion, key trends that in-house legal should monitor this year are certainly AI development and ways of working, including how best to use these tools effectively, rather than using them simply for the sake of it. This is not an easy task, as we are often overloaded with numerous offers and propositions that need to be validated and verified before we can commence cooperation. Legal should take advantage of AI, not just blindly follow the trend, which is currently very popular and widely discussed on various forums.

Another key trend I find very important is how to simplify our work in a world that is becoming ever more complex. I personally find this area very interesting and believe that legal should pioneer in it. I tend to agree that too many rules can be dangerous for company culture — better to have fewer rules and stronger execution. I am a huge fan of simplification, so this is very close to my everyday work and attitude.

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

First of all, you need to know the business and the industry. It may sound like a cliché, but unfortunately, it is not. Then, forget ‘legal language’ and speak in business terms; where possible, try to give simple answers in plain words, and do not overcomplicate things just because of their nature. Be part of the team, not just an advisor.

Have the courage to say, ‘I do not know’; as in-house lawyers, we do not have to have all the answers at hand. We can start by suggesting a direction, and the answers will come as we have time to work on them. Prioritisation is a mantra for me; if forgotten, we cannot cope with everything happening in large organisations.

Pause and think whether your presence or contribution brings value to the team, project, or question – if not, pass it to someone better suited or more specialised in that area. Allow others to work. Empower them.