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? 

One of the key roles that I have undertaken involves process and risk management improvements for the Asia Pacific region.  When I started, there were significant regional variations as to acceptable contractual and delivery risk treatment within the business in the Asia Pacific region.  During my time at Hitachi Rail, I developed a robust regional downstream procurement risk appetite and embedded that position into developing a pro forma procurement contractual suite for the region which can easily be rolled out in an agile manner across diverse markets.     

I am also an advocate of promoting a challenge culture and considering matters with healthy scepticism within the business.  For me, these are key elements that produce effective teams and support business continuity in an increasingly unpredictable world.  I personally emulate this sort of behaviour and welcome it when others do as well.  In my view, this has resulted in improved function within the legal team and increased their perceived value to the broader business.   

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

My role is to provide legal guidance and strategic input for the Hitachi Rail businesses in the Asia Pacific region.  One of my key projects in the region, which is currently in delivery, is an approximately $800m turnkey commuter rail project in Manila, Philippines.  The project is a key nation building project for the Philippines designed to improve connectivity within the Greater Manila Area while reducing traffic congestion and emissions.  

My work has involved undertaking significant downstream procurement activities, contractual negotiations, and strategic delivery advice. I was fortunate enough to recently visit the project team in Manila for the opening of the project office and it was very exciting to see first-hand the positive culture and enthusiasm that the Hitachi Rail team bring to their work every day.  

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

I am passionate about animal welfare and rights. I am the lucky mum of a six-year-old ex-racing Greyhound – Guinness. Guinness is my third rescue greyhound, and he would not be my last. I have also been heavily involved in retraining ex-racing thoroughbreds into new lives as showjumpers, eventers, or companions.  

I am also currently a proud mum to a very spoiled Andalusian mare called Carmen, but my next horse will likely be a thoroughbred.  Both greyhounds and thoroughbreds have enormous potential in their post-racing careers with the right owner and circumstances. All my animals have enriched my life immensely.