What are the most significant cases or transactions that your legal team has recently been involved in?

Over the past year, our legal team at AT&T has been deeply engaged in several significant cases and transactions, particularly focusing on enhancing IoT products, leveraging AI for contract efficiencies, and developing new business ventures within the enterprise.  Our legal team’s involvement in these areas reflects our commitment to supporting AT&T’s strategic initiatives and driving innovation within the company. By enhancing our IoT products, leveraging AI for contract efficiencies, and developing new business ventures, we have contributed to AT&T’s competitive edge and market leadership. Each case and transaction we handle is guided by our dedication to legal excellence and our goal of fostering the company’s growth and success in the telecommunications industry.

Could you share an example of a time when you came up with an innovation that improved how your legal team works and did not come at a large expense?    

One of the core focuses of my role has been to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of our legal team while managing costs. Our legal team faced challenges due to the time-consuming processes of contract drafting, review, and management, which often resulted in delays and an increased reliance on external counsel for routine tasks, ultimately driving up costs. To address these issues, I spearheaded the implementation of an AI-powered contract management system. Additionally, we conducted a thorough review of our existing contract templates to identify inconsistencies and areas for improvement. Standardising these templates ensured they were up-to-date, legally sound, and aligned with our business objectives. This step simplified the drafting process and reduced the need for extensive reviews, enabling faster contract turnaround times. We also analysed which tasks could be effectively handled in-house, thereby reducing our dependence on external counsel. By leveraging the skills and expertise of our internal legal team, we efficiently managed routine tasks. This optimisation not only lowered costs associated with external counsel but also empowered our in-house team to assume greater responsibility and further develop their skills.

What is a cause, business related or otherwise, that you care about, and why?  

I am deeply passionate about several causes, both within our business and in the broader community. Two primary areas that stand out to me are empowering women in the legal profession and supporting nonprofit organisations like La Cana. Additionally, I am committed to projects that leverage AT&T products to connect people and bridge the digital divide.

Empowering women to break the glass ceiling is a cause very close to my heart. Despite significant progress, women still face barriers to advancing into leadership positions, particularly in the legal field. I believe that fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace is not only the right thing to do but also essential for driving innovation and excellence. To support this, I have been instrumental in establishing mentorship programmes within our legal team. We also organise monthly workshops and training sessions focused on leadership development, negotiation skills, and career planning, specifically designed to empower women.

Supporting nonprofit organisations that make a tangible difference in people’s lives is another cause I am passionate about. La Cana, for example, is a remarkable organisation that empowers incarcerated women through skill development and employment opportunities. I believe in giving back to the community and helping those who are often overlooked. We collaborate to provide resources and support for their programmes, ensuring they have the tools they need to succeed.

Empowering women, supporting impactful nonprofit organisations, and connecting people through technology are causes I am deeply committed to. These initiatives not only align with my values but also contribute to creating a more inclusive and connected world. By championing these causes, I strive to make a positive impact both within AT&T and in the broader community.