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?  

Rather than implement a particular system, document, or software, the most significant innovation introduced as an in-house lawyer relates to my way of working.  In 2019, I was given a great opportunity to second into a non-legal role working in a capital transactions team. It was now my turn to instruct the lawyers!  

My time in this team had a definitive and positive impact on the way I work with stakeholders, both internal and external. It showed me the importance of having an internal legal team that functions as a trusted advisor to the business, working hand in hand, and not one that essentially operates as an external legal service provider.   

I have tailored my way of working to focus on having open, simple, and fast communication; to being approachable and reliable; and to providing commercially driven output in collaboration with my colleagues. I have found that this working style gives the business the confidence they need to come to the internal legal team on important matters, including ones they may have otherwise been too nervous or busy to raise. While fostering an environment of compliance, it also helps to greatly improve the working relationship between the legal team and other business units – removing the dreaded ‘roadblock’ stigma that internal legal teams often face.  And the best part is that it comes at no expense! 

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

I am very fortunate to have been involved in some exciting transactions over the past few years, both in my current role at Levande and in previous positions. In particular, Levande is at a transformational point in the development of the company. Levande as a brand was only recently launched, following the acquisition by EQT Infrastructure of Stockland’s portfolio of retirement living villages. The separation from the larger Stockland group and the independent functioning of Levande as its own entity has been a complex and interesting project to be involved in.  

Another career highlight from the past year has been my involvement during my previous role at Scape in a landmark ruling from the Court of Appeal in South Australia. In November 2022, we successfully challenged the imposition of stamp duty and foreign owner surcharge tax (equating to approximately $40m) on the acquisition of a student accommodation building in South Australia, creating precedent for the exemption of these types of properties from the imposition of such taxes. It was a milestone decision for the industry, and I was fortunate enough to work alongside some excellent legal professionals on the case. 

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

Levande as a business is truly committed to creating lifestyle communities where the residents come first. Even the company’s name, ‘Levande,’ is a Swedish word which means ‘vivid’ and ‘full of life’ – this is intended to reflect the positivity that Levande is looking to embody.  I find it very rewarding to be part of a company that has such a clear focus on social purpose.