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?  

I have worked closely with our specialised ESG and sustainability legal team to help develop a business-facing checklist for BHP in addressing sector specific ESG considerations as a part of an M&A transaction. This document leveraged both transaction and market precedent and was well received as a road map for the transaction in question. The intention will be to develop and expand these concepts for broader transactions and opportunities as it is now essential to recognise the importance of ESG considerations when looking at M&A transactions, and to find ways to deliver positive social value outcomes in the transactions we undertake.  

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

The BHP corporate legal team has been involved in some diverse and market leading transactions over the recent few years. This includes the transaction to unify BHPs corporate structure into a single primary listing on the ASX, the merger of BHP’s petroleum business with Woodside, the sale of the BHP’s interest in the Cerrejon and BMC joint ventures as well as the recent acquisition of the OZ Minerals business. In addition to these prominent transactions, other strategic investments, and initiatives I have been involved in includes BHP’s acquisition of an interest in the Kabanga Nickel Project in Tanzania and the launch of BHP’s pilot accelerator program, Xplor.   

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

Mental health and wellbeing in the workplace are an issue I am particularly passionate about – one that impacts both businesses and individuals alike. I believe that professional services industries (including the legal profession) still fall behind other industries in meaningful change and leadership in this regard. While some organisations are clearly tackling this issue head on and are beginning to appreciate the link between employee wellbeing and retention and productivity, there is more to be done to ensure that employees feel safe and supported in their workplace.  I am happy to say that I work for one such team where such wellbeing is actively promoted and suggestions for change are openly welcomed.