Team size: 30+

What has been the number one challenge that has impacted you over the past year?

Ausgrid has a critical role in leading and delivering initiatives that will support the transition to low-cost, reliable, and sustainable electricity solutions to enable a decarbonised economy.

Our business is now involved (or actively considering involvement) in a range of areas that were barely contemplated a decade ago, this includes: EV charging; community batteries; and renewable energy zones

Supporting the business in leading and delivering these initiatives requires a curious mind and an appetite for learning about new areas. However, this learning is not possible without considerable time investment. The number one challenge for me and my team over the last year has been to balance this investment against other day-to-day commitments, including family and other personal commitments. Supporting one another and regular check ins, along with thoughtful and flexible scheduling (both on a personal and professional level) is critical!

Looking forward, what technological advancements do you feel will impact the role of in-house legal teams in the future the most?

I would nominate three technological advancements that are likely to impact the role of in-house teams in the future: Matter management software; Blockchain; and AI.

What would you say are the unique qualities required to be successful as an in-house lawyer in your industry?

I think to be a successful lawyer (in-house or not) in any industry, one needs to be:

Credible – by doing the work to ensure their advice is precise and that care is taken with assumptions.

Considered – by thinking about the problems to be solved from different angles and communicating clearly and succinctly.

Consistent – by using appropriately standardised principles to maximise reliable and efficient performance.

Calibrated – by aiming to understand the importance of the work in the broader organisational context.

Courteous and collaborative – by working together with clients and other stakeholders to deliver outcomes, as well as managing expectations and delivering on promises.