What are the most significant cases or transactions that you have been involved in over the past year?
Over the past years, my transition from external counsel to an in-house role has significantly shaped my approach to handling complex divestitures, including company splits and asset sales. Previously, I managed numerous M&A transactions with carve-outs, but serving internally introduced a unique set of challenges and opportunities for growth.
A pivotal aspect of my in-house experience has been navigating the evolving dynamics of these transactions. My role demanded not just legal acumen but a comprehensive understanding of business strategy and negotiation, enhanced by my studies in business school courses. More than just drafting transitional service agreements (TSAs), I ensured both resulting entities functioned effectively and complied with regulations post-transaction.
As a trusted business partner (see the next question), I have provided strategic foresight and collaborated closely with executive leadership even in divestures. Due to this approach, I am confident that the divestitures I have actively participated in over the past years have been executed in accordance with the company’s broader objectives, while also maintaining both legal and operational integrity.

Based on your experience, what is the key to collaborating successfully with business side?
As an in-house lawyer, I constantly advocate for the “trusted business partner” concept, emphasising that legal professionals must go beyond traditional roles to deeply understand and integrate with the business dynamics and strategic objectives of the company. This deep integration enables the provision of tailored advice that not only meets legal standards but also advances business goals.
Effective communication is essential in this role. It requires the articulation of complex legal concepts in ways that are accessible and directly relevant to business stakeholders. Such clarity not only improves decision-making processes but also solidifies the legal department’s role as an indispensable partner in the business operations.
By treating every interaction as an opportunity to educate and advocate, I ensure that legal considerations are woven seamlessly into business strategies. This approach not only fosters a collaborative atmosphere but also drives our collective success, reinforcing my commitment to being a trusted business partner who contributes significantly to the company’s overall achievements.

Apart from legal matters, has the team worked on other company initiatives you would like to highlight?
Apart from our core legal responsibilities, our team actively contributes to several employee-led grassroots initiatives, known as Employee Resource Groups (ERGs). Encouraging my team to participate in these groups has been instrumental in advancing inclusion, diversity, and equity from various dimensions within our organisation. For example, one of our team members is actively involved in promoting gender parity through the Medtronic Women’s Network.
I personally am a member of PRIDE Network Japan, established in December 2023, which aims to enhance understanding and support for the LGBTQA+ community within our company. This group not only supports LGBTQA+ employees and their families but also spearheads initiatives like the “Partnership System,” which equates non-legal partnerships with legal marriages in company policies, and the establishment of support for gender confirmation procedures.
We believe that as legal professionals, we have a moral obligation to use our expertise to support and guide these transformative initiatives, fostering a workplace where everyone can truly be themselves.