Team size: Seven

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

In my view, the energy industry is affected by several current trends such as:

Renewable energy transition: There has been a noticeable shift towards renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind. This transition has been driven by environmental concerns, technological advancements, and government incentives. General counsel like me in energy companies have had to navigate complex regulatory frameworks associated with renewable energy projects, including negotiating power purchase agreements.

Energy storage: The development of energy storage technologies, such as batteries, has gained momentum. These technologies are essential for balancing the intermittency of renewable energy sources and ensuring grid stability. General counsel have been involved in negotiating contracts for energy storage projects, addressing regulatory issues, and managing legal risks associated with new storage technologies.

Electric Vehicles (EVs): The growing popularity of electric vehicles has led to increased demand for EV charging infrastructure. Energy companies are expanding into the EV charging market, requiring general counsel to handle legal matters related to the deployment of charging stations, compliance with regulations, and negotiations with stakeholders.

Sustainability and ESG: There is a growing emphasis on energy efficiency and sustainability across the energy sector. General counsel play a crucial role in advising companies on compliance with the ESG regime, energy efficiency standards and implementing sustainable practices.

IT and digital transformation: Like many industries, the energy sector is undergoing digital transformation. This includes the adoption of smart grid technologies, IoT devices, and data analytics to optimise energy production and distribution. General counsel are involved in addressing legal issues related to data privacy, cybersecurity, and intellectual property rights in the context of digitalisation.

Overall, these trends have significantly expanded the role of general counsel and in-house lawyers in the energy sector, requiring us to possess a diverse skill set encompassing regulatory compliance, contract negotiation, risk management, and strategic planning in order to navigate the evolving landscape effectively.

How have you fostered a closer collaboration between the legal department and your business counterparts?

I have fostered closer collaboration between the legal department and business counterparts by participating in business team meetings with stakeholders; having a thorough understanding of the business of the counterparts and always asking questions; disseminating newsletters to stakeholders; holding one-on-ones with key stakeholders; introducing “fly in” seating, where my team members sit with the business teams in their daily work; and entering the commercial case on as early a stage as possible.

Do you have a cause, business-related or otherwise, that you are passionate about?

No, only tennis!