General counsel | EY Denmark
Niels Skat Rørdam
General counsel | EY Denmark
What are the most significant cases or transactions that your legal team has recently been involved in?
One of the most significant cases our legal team has been involved in recently is regarding the proposed split of our global audit and consulting business in more than 100 countries. This was a complex process that required extensive legal analysis and foresight. The proposed split had far-reaching implications for our company, and it was our responsibility to provide a thorough, informed legal perspective to the business leaders. So, from a legal perspective it was slightly disappointing that the split was cancelled in the end.
What would you say are the unique qualities required to be successful as an in-house lawyer in your industry?
For an in-house lawyer in our industry, I guess that some interest and experience in broad legal matters is a key to success. In addition, you need to keep abreast of new legislation and legal developments that impact our industry.
Primarily, you need to understand the business and be able to communicate the legal perspective in a clear and direct way that leaves no room for misunderstandings – especially since most of the organisation is not necessarily legal personnel. Moreover, you need to be robust and resilient since the business will – and should – challenge you.
How have you fostered a closer collaboration between the legal department and your business counterparts?
To foster closer collaboration between our legal team and the service lines within the EY business, we make sure to be very close to key stakeholders in the business and always try to support the business and find effective solutions.
Do you have a cause, business-related or otherwise, that you are passionate about?
For many years I have been an external lecturer at the University of Copenhagen. My main professional interest is within all aspects of tort law, contract law and professional liability. I find it very enjoyable being a creative lawyer finding solutions.
General Counsel | ERNST & YOUNG