What are the key projects that you have been involved in over the past 12 months?

I have been involved in a legal excellence and efficiency initiative. In one of the NHS’s most complex operational environments, I have laid the groundwork for a modern, efficient, and integrated legal function — one that promotes consistency, reduces systemic inefficiencies, and supports the delivery of legally robust, high-quality healthcare services.

Appointed as UCLH’s first General Counsel, I was brought in to establish and transform the Trust’s commercial legal services during a time when the NHS is facing unprecedented operational and financial pressures. Traditionally, NHS Trusts have relied on in-house teams to manage inquests and clinical claims while routinely outsourcing other matters, including but not limited to commercial, employment, and procurement.

Over the past year, my work at UCLH has delivered measurable impact by aligning legal services strategically with the aims and objectives of UCLH, significantly reducing external legal spend, improving consistency in legal approaches across the organisation, and strengthening risk mitigation. I am now entering the next phase of development, expanding the legal team with our first strategic hire to increase capacity and further embed a proactive, solution-focused legal service.

I have also been leading legal support in court of protection matters. Legal work within the NHS is both highly rewarding and essential, particularly in sensitive areas such as the Court of Protection. Navigating these complex legal landscapes plays a crucial role in safeguarding the rights and wellbeing of some of the most vulnerable patients, underscoring the vital importance of skilled legal support within healthcare.

As part of my work to establish an excellent legal function at UCLH, I have become a trusted adviser on sensitive matters, including several Court of Protection and High Court cases. I strive to provide the Trust with the best possible legal advice while ensuring that the voices of the most vulnerable are heard and protected. This work is deeply rewarding and highlights the critical role that legal expertise plays in supporting compassionate, effective healthcare.

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?

The NHS is currently experiencing significant pressures and periods of instability. In managing legal aspects during such times, I prioritise my strategic abilities, taking a step back to thoroughly evaluate the situation. The depth and speed of this evaluation depend on the urgency and severity of the crisis, but a clear understanding of the facts is always essential.

Once the facts are established, I carefully assess the available legal options to ensure they align with the Trust’s broader objectives and values. A key part of this process involves balancing what the law requires with what the organisation needs, striving to find practical solutions that meet in the middle as much as possible.

This approach helps ensure that our legal strategy supports the organisation’s resilience and sustainability, enabling us to respond effectively while safeguarding both operational continuity and organisational integrity.

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

Business knowledge and financial acumen are vital to provide legal advice that aligns with the organisation’s objectives. Understanding the broader goals and operational context helps ensure your counsel supports effective decision-making and adds real value.

Adaptability is essential for a modern in-house counsel, as it enables you to handle a wide range of legal queries, both within and beyond your usual expertise. Equally important is the ability to tailor your communication style and advice to suit different audiences, ensuring your guidance is clear, relevant, and well received.

Personability plays a key role in building strong relationships with stakeholders. By communicating effectively and empathetically, you establish yourself as a trusted adviser who understands their needs and concerns.

Honesty is critical. This means being transparent when you don’t have an immediate answer and confidently telling clients when certain requests cannot be fulfilled, while always working to find alternative solutions or compromises.

Of course, strong legal ability is fundamental: possessing a broad and varied range of legal skills is necessary to navigate the complexities of modern legal challenges effectively.

What is a cause, business or otherwise, that you are passionate about?

A cause I’m deeply passionate about is supporting talented young aspiring lawyers — particularly those from underrepresented or non-traditional backgrounds — to enter and thrive in the legal profession.

When I began my legal career nearly 20 years ago, it was incredibly challenging to break into the field, especially without connections or a network within the industry. I’ll never forget those who took the time to mentor and support me, and their impact has stayed with me throughout my career.

That experience drives my commitment to give back, whether through mentoring, offering work experience, or simply providing guidance to those navigating the early stages of their legal journey. I believe in opening doors for others and creating a more inclusive and accessible profession, helping young people enter the profession — especially those without a background in law.