How do you feel the pandemic has changed the world of work for in-house counsel and the function of the general counsel?

The pandemic completely changed our world in every aspect. It changed the way we relate within society and the way we connect with our family, friends, and colleagues. We were forced to implement new ways to work, communicate, and do business. In our company, the change was not so traumatic, considering we have global operations and headquarters in UAE, so we were used to working heavily through virtual communication. One positive aspect the pandemic brought was the possibility to finalise almost all the aspects of negotiating with our clients and suppliers, using online tools, and saving time and travel costs, among others.

Looking forward, what technological advancements do you feel will impact the role of in-house legal teams in the future the most?

I consider technological advancements and tools will improve in the future, allowing us to do more things virtually and remotely, boosting the in-house legal team’s performance and fulfilling corporate goals quicker.

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

I would tell them to keep their principles intact. Core values like loyalty, honesty, integrity, and responsibility should not change according to the position or the company we work for. A general counsel should not only be a good lawyer but being a good human should come first.