Team size: Three 

Could you share an example of a time when you came up with an innovation that improved the way your legal team works and didn’t come at a huge cost?  

In the dynamic legal landscape, our commitment to simplification and innovation has reshaped our approach. We have placed simplicity and innovation at the forefront, revolutionising our legal workflow. Traditionally, legal work was synonymous with complexity. Recognising the need for change, we introduced prefilled draft contracts, changing the game. Tailored templates have significantly reduced manual work, minimising errors. With preliminary information, our colleagues can focus on essential contract aspects, streamlining reviews. This ensures proper attention to legal language and compliance. In conclusion, our journey with prefilled draft contracts has transformed our efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness, thanks to technology and innovation. 

What are some of the key developments (legal, geopolitical or otherwise) that have affected your business over the last year?  

Over the past year, our company has faced a dynamic landscape filled with both challenges and opportunities. Geopolitical tensions, exemplified by conflicts like the Ukraine crisis and the global energy crisis, made us intensify our focus on innovation to optimise efficiency. Additionally, adapting to the evolving post-pandemic work dynamics has driven us to significantly improve remote collaboration and flexible work arrangements. Throughout these changes, our commitment to innovation and the delivery of essential healthcare solutions remains unwavering as we navigate this ever-evolving landscape. 

How do you think the in-house legal role will evolve in the coming years? 

In the foreseeable future, in-house legal teams are poised for a substantial transformation. Legal professionals will harness advanced technology to streamline daily tasks efficiently. Emphasis will be on critical areas such as data privacy and cybersecurity, maintaining strict compliance within a constantly changing regulatory landscape. Collaboration will be central as legal teams forge strategic partnerships across organisational departments, aligning their work with broader objectives. Remote work will remain a vital aspect of operations, optimising productivity through digital tools and virtual communication. In this dynamic environment, legal professionals will diversify their skill sets, assume leadership roles in ethical initiatives, and address global challenges adeptly. Exploring innovative service models will enhance cost efficiency, while flexible work arrangements will adapt to evolving professional requirements. In-house legal teams, blending innovation with professionalism, are poised to shape a future where legal excellence and organisational success are seamlessly intertwined. 

Do you use any ‘legal technology’ products and, if so, what areas of your work do you find it most useful for?  

In my experience as a legal professional, I have found legal technology tools invaluable in streamlining various aspects of our work. These tools have become a fundamental part of modern legal practice, offering significant advantages. Within the corporate context, major companies like ours widely employ legal technology tools. They span essential functions such as billing, contract drafting, e-discovery, and case management. Notably, these tools shine in document management, contract administration, legal research, and cybersecurity. From my vantage point, adopting legal technology has not only enhanced our efficiency but has also brought innovation to the forefront of our profession. As technology advances, it will undoubtedly play an increasingly pivotal role in shaping the future of legal practice.