Senior vice president legal and sustainability and general counsel | Aspo
Taru Uotila
Senior vice president legal and sustainability and general counsel | Aspo
Team size: Five
question here What are the projects that you are most proud of working on over the past 12 months?
Over the past year, I have had the privilege of working on several significant projects that have played a key role in shaping our company’s strategic direction. One of the most notable achievements has been overseeing several major acquisitions in Benelux, Germany, and Sweden, aligning with our compounder strategy. Another major project was the sale of a 21.43% minority share in Aspo’s subsidiary, ESL Shipping, to OP Finland Infrastructure LP and Varma Mutual Insurance Fund. I was also closely involved in managing the highly complex divestiture process of Aspo’s subsidiary, Leipurinen’s business in Russia. Additionally, I have been part of a nearly €200 million investment project for ESL Shipping, aimed at building a series of fossil-free handy-sized vessels to support the Nordic green transition.
How do you approach managing legal aspects during periods of instability or crisis to ensure the organisation’s resilience?
Legal aspects must be managed with diligence and consistency, regardless of the overall market conditions. However, in times of crisis or instability, legal work must also function as a form of risk management, shifting focus to areas where potential threats or liabilities are most pressing.
What do you derive the most satisfaction from in your work?
When I can support my team members to succeed and grow. Coaching and mentoring, especially more junior members of the team, is one of the best parts of my job.
What do you think sets you apart from other in-house counsel?
Versatility. In addition to legal affairs, I have been leading the sustainability and HR of two major companies at the group level.
Based on your experiences in the past year, are there any trends in the legal or business world that you are keeping an eye on that you think other in-house lawyers should be mindful of?
ESG regulation is an area that in-house lawyers must pay increasing attention to. The role of legal professionals in ESG-related matters is expanding rapidly, making it essential to develop a solid understanding of sustainability frameworks, compliance requirements, and regulatory expectations