Team size: 17

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

Over the past year, our legal team has navigated several critical and complex litigation cases with success. Simultaneously, we have been instrumental in fostering new business partnerships, facilitating post-M&A transactions, and integrating these initiatives into our operations. These efforts have not only fortified our legal standing but have also significantly contributed to our growth and success in the competitive medical devices market at Getinge.

Furthermore, we have prioritised internal process improvements, focusing on optimising outside legal counsel management. We developed self-service tools that empower our teams to handle low and medium-complexity legal matters efficiently and promptly. These initiatives have not only enhanced our operational agility but have also contributed to better cost control across our global legal department. Overall, our legal team’s achievements underscore our commitment to delivering value, driving growth, and ensuring compliance while optimising resources effectively.

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

First, communication skills are crucial for succeeding as an in-house lawyer. I would dare to say that conveying complex legal concepts to non-legal stakeholders, such as executives and board members, clearly and understandably is a true challenge. Ensuring that legal advice is properly understood and integrated into business decision-making processes is a must-have for any in-house legal team.

Business acumen is also essential. Before starting to provide legal advice, in-house lawyers must understand the company’s industry, market position, and strategic objectives. This includes assessing risks and opportunities from a business perspective and offering solutions that balance legal requirements with commercial realities. Lawyers are important stakeholders in decision-making, but not an isolated isle in a company.

Additionally, accountability is a key quality for in-house lawyers. We are responsible for upholding legal compliance, managing legal risks, and ensuring ethical conduct within the organisation. Being accountable means taking ownership of legal matters, following through on commitments, and maintaining integrity in all professional interactions.

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

I have fostered a closer collaboration between the legal department and our business counterparts through several key approaches. Firstly, I prioritise being a good listener, actively seeking to understand our business objectives before diving into legal advice. This not only demonstrates my genuine interest in the company’s success but also ensures that my legal guidance is tailored to support our strategic goals effectively.

Humility plays a significant role in this collaboration. I approach interactions with a humble mindset, recognising that I do not have all the answers and that the best solutions often emerge through collaborative dialogue. By asking the right questions and encouraging open communication, I can gather the necessary information to provide comprehensive and well-informed legal advice.

Moreover, I emphasise the importance of enabling businesses to operate in a legal and compliant manner. This involves not only identifying potential legal risks but also proactively suggesting solutions that balance legal requirements with business needs. By fostering a culture of compliance and ethical conduct, I help ensure that our company operates with integrity while pursuing its objectives.

Overall, my approach to fostering closer collaboration involves active listening, humility, and a commitment to providing practical legal advice that empowers our business counterparts to make informed decisions while navigating legal complexities effectively.

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

Undoubtedly the healthcare market and ways to improve the quality of life is a passion. I am amazed by how science and technology may save lives, and – of course – along with all the legal and compliance dilemmas challenging us.