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

It is obvious that the quality of the advice being provided must be excellent, but along with that the in-house lawyer shall have a deep understanding of the company’s product portfolio, internal and external customers, and projects as well. Based on this all, the business expects practicable and business friendly solutions from the in-house counsel, which are structured to help the business to achieve its goals. And this advice is expected to be clear and without any ambiguity. Whether this is a project structuring, problem solving or risk assessment, delivering a clear practical solution for the business is key.

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

Be accessible and open to your internal clients. Build relationships with them, in particular by giving them clear, commercial and business-oriented advice, by creating opportunities for them or preventing the risks. Deeply learn the company’s business, understand the product portfolio and study the project’s potential traps and pitfalls.