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?

Managing legal aspects during periods of instability or crises is always a challenge that any professional must address to navigate through the situation in the most balanced and effective manner, in accordance with the business needs and goals. This can be achieved by obtaining a deep understanding and knowledge of the industry in which you work and identifying the key factors that may affect the business. It is essential to be well-informed in advance of all legal frameworks and measures that may apply to or impact the business. This proactive preparation allows for adjustments when necessary. The legal strategy must be fully aligned with the business strategy to the extent that this is feasible, ensuring the organisation’s resilience.

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?

At ION SA, we recognise the importance of sustainability and have implemented several measures to embed sustainable practices into our core business operations. We have established clear sustainability goals that include reducing our environmental impact, promoting responsible sourcing, and enhancing energy efficiency across our manufacturing processes. These objectives are integrated into our operational practices and are regularly reviewed to ensure compliance with environmental regulations.

As the Legal Affairs Director, my role in driving and ensuring sustainable practices is vital. I collaborate with various departments to ensure that our sustainability goals are aligned with our legal obligations. This involves providing legal guidance on compliance with environmental regulations, ensuring that our sourcing practices meet ethical standards, and advising on any legal implications of our sustainability initiatives. By embedding sustainability into our business operations, we not only comply with regulatory requirements but also create value for our stakeholders and enhance our brand reputation.

What emerging technologies do you see as having the most significant impact on the legal profession in the near future, and how do you stay updated on these developments?

Emerging technologies are increasingly playing a central role in the legal industry, which is rapidly evolving away from traditional practices. While these technologies are transformative, the legal profession will always depend on the craftsmanship of lawyers. Legal technology will continue to expand, as it undoubtedly enhances efficiency and saves significant time, allowing legal professionals to focus on tasks that require legal insight, creativity, and strategic thinking.

I believe that generative AI will significantly impact the legal industry, particularly in areas such as research, drafting, and managing common types of contracts. Additionally, technologies that automate routine daily tasks will become increasingly important. To stay updated on these developments, I strive to integrate as many of these technologies as possible into our daily practices. By actively using these tools, I can adapt and develop alongside the evolving landscape of legal technology.