Team size: ∼100 

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?  

A prime example of an innovation that significantly improved our legal team’s performance without incurring additional expenses was our seamless transition to remote work during the Covid-19 pandemic while handling domestic litigations as also international arbitration and mediation cases. 

Recognising the challenges posed by the pandemic, we quickly adopted and leveraged existing digital communication and collaboration tools. By effectively utilising video conferencing, secure document sharing platforms, and virtual project management tools, we ensured a smooth and efficient workflow. 

The key here was harnessing technology and implementing new work processes with minimal cost, showcasing our team’s adaptability and commitment to delivering results while staying within budget constraints. 

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

In the year, 2023, our team achieved numerous milestones and desired results. Two international mediations were successfully concluded within a short span of six months only; the legal team played a pivotal role related to energy regulatory matters at the Supreme Court of India, which got the favourable orders involving huge amount; the legal team concluded around 25 indirect tax matters in our favour; the legal team performed a remarkable order in a group matter related to GST on Ocean Freight from Honourable Supreme Court of India; during the year, a number of litigations were managed and strategised; the legal team also played a lead role in various mergers and acquisitions at the group level including significant deals for acquisition of ACC Ltd., Ambuja Cement Ltd., NDTV Ltd. and such others. 

If you had to give advice to an aspiring in-house lawyer or general counsel, what would it be and why?   

Build a strong foundation. Start by building a solid foundation in the law. Focus on gaining a deep understanding of core legal principles and how they apply in various areas of law relevant to the business you will be serving. This knowledge will be essential in providing effective legal guidance. 

Develop business acumen. It is crucial to understand the business you will be working for. Learn about the industry, the company’s operations, and its goals. This will enable you to align legal strategies with business objectives and provide more practical and strategic advice. 

Communication skills. Effective communication is paramount. Develop strong written and verbal communication skills, as you will need to convey complex legal concepts to non-legal stakeholders. The ability to explain legal matters in a clear, concise, and understandable manner is a valuable asset. 

Ethical leadership. Uphold the highest ethical standards. As an in-house lawyer, you are often responsible for maintaining the company’s legal and ethical integrity. Lead by example and ensure that legal and ethical considerations are at the forefront of decision-making. 

Collaboration. Foster strong working relationships with colleagues from different departments. Collaboration is key to understanding the business’s needs and proactively addressing legal issues. Being a team player will enhance your effectiveness. 

Adaptability. The legal landscape is constantly evolving. Stay current with legal developments and trends in your industry. Be prepared to adapt to changes in laws and regulations and pivot your legal strategies accordingly. 

Risk management. Develop a keen sense of risk assessment. Understanding and mitigating risks is a core function of in-house legal roles. Identify potential risks early and work with the business to manage and minimise them. 

Cost management. In-house legal departments are often expected to operate efficiently. Learn to manage legal expenses effectively, whether through in-housework or strategic use of external counsel, to optimise the use of resources. 

Networking. Build a strong network within the legal community and the industry you serve. Networking can provide valuable insights, mentorship, and potential career opportunities. 

Embrace technology. Familiarise yourself with legal tech tools and platforms that can streamline legal processes, increase efficiency, and provide data-driven insights. 

Remember, a successful in-house lawyer or general counsel not only provides sound legal advice but also contributes to the overall success of the organisation. Your role is not just about risk mitigation but also about facilitating growth and innovation within a legal framework. By following these guidelines, you can embark on a rewarding and impactful career in in-house counsel.