How important is choosing to work with external lawyers who align with your company’s values? Are you likely to reconsider what firms you work with based on this?

It is essential that our external lawyers are aligned with the values of the company.

Looking forward, what technological advancements do you feel will impact the role of in-house legal teams in the future the most? Which have you found most useful in your legal team?

Definitely artificial intelligence.

Why are in-house lawyers well-placed to drive change in their organisations?

Because the success of our work depends on our ability to adapt to changes.

In general, what would you like to see change about the external law firms you use? Examples could be greater flexibility in billing, a more expansive suite of services offered, more transparency in reporting ESG statistics etc.

Greater flexibility in billing.

What diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives have you and your legal department been championing within your company’s endeavours?

Gender parity.

As we live in a fast-paced world today, what skills will a corporate legal team need to succeed in the modern in-house industry?

Corporate legal teams will need flexibility and resilience if they are to succeed in the modern in-house industry.

How do you suggest in-house lawyers build strong relationships with business partners?

It is important that in-house lawyers are generating solutions rather than pointing out obstacles, in the face of challenges.

If existent, can you talk about you or your company’s efforts relating to renewability, sustainability or other environmentally friendly activities?

There is a great commitment to sustainability within our company, the ESG criteria we have implemented acts as a beacon that guides us in our business.

The unusual business environment created by the pandemic has been swiftly followed by other shocks. Are you now putting more emphasis on preparing for the unforeseen and, if so, what does this entail?

The pandemic taught us that there are no paradigms, and that we must be prepared for changes, at any time.

What are some of the main legislative or regulatory changes that have impacted you?

Fintech law and data protection law have had the greatest impact on us.