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

My current role was newly created as part of a transition from a private family business operation to a family office corporate structure. It has been both challenging and rewarding as my foremost priority has been to understand the breadth of the businesses and industries that the Perich Group operates in, being diversified across many industry sectors and legal jurisdictions. It has been incredibly interesting to create, develop and apply legal principles and knowledge to the daily operations of businesses that I have not previously worked within.

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

I believe technology will continue to play a very important role in in-house legal teams in the future. In-house legal teams emphasise that legal function is an important part of the company’s business operations. General counsels in particular are typically engaged in important management decisions of the company alongside other key executive management teams. Technological advancements continue to assist in providing these legal services and functions. In my experience, the best technological advancements create efficiencies and systems for matter management and interaction with the company each day. Seemingly simple applications and improvements such as automating legal instructions and using technology to distribute information to key stakeholders add significant benefits to in house legal functions.

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

I believe that the key to being a successful in-house lawyer is understanding that your role is first and foremost, to facilitate the company’s business and strategic objectives. A great in-house lawyer can do this while fulfilling their ultimate role of managing and minimising risk for the business. In-house lawyers must be ‘enablers’ for the company and work alongside the key decision makers to achieve the desired results and mandates.