Legal team size:4

Major legal advisers/external counsel : Sam Okudzeto & Associates

How do you approach managing legal aspects during periods of instability or crises, and how does your legal strategy align with the broader business strategy to ensure the organisation’s resilience?

To minimise business interruptions, the Group has a robust Business Continuity Plan (BCP), and in my role, I play a key part in ensuring its seamless deployment during times of crisis. I was instrumental in developing the BCP policy and continue to provide training and support across the Group, ensuring that our processes remain effective. This includes periodic testing to confirm that our systems are always in ‘ready’ mode should the unexpected occur. 

As a C-Suite member and part of the Executive Committee, I am well-positioned to play this role effectively. Having the ‘ear’ of Executive Management and enjoying their full confidence allows me to integrate legal strategies into broader business decisions, ensuring resilience and continuity. 

 In your opinion, what are the main trends that are salient in your country currently ? 

Ghanaian lawyers are increasingly specialising, forming international partnerships, and adapting to global standards. To enhance their marketability, many corporate and commercial lawyers are now qualified to practise in multiple jurisdictions. 

Post-COVID-19, the legal landscape has also embraced more agile and digital solutions. There is a growing adoption of tools such as Artificial Intelligence for document review, and virtual court appearances have been instituted to enhance efficiency and access to justice. 

On the business front, Ghana is becoming more aware of and making strides towards embracing the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) agenda. While governance has been well established for years and is now considered ‘business as usual’ for many entities, the environmental and social aspects remain relatively new. This presents an exciting opportunity to contribute to the pioneering work in this evolving space. 

Are there any causes, business or otherwise, you are passionate about? 

Yes, several.
One of my key interests is Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR). I am a strong advocate for settling commercial disputes outside the courtroom and believe there is still significant progress to be made in this area. During my LLM studies in Petroleum Law & Practice, I focused on the use of ADR in the extractive industry, and I am eager to apply that knowledge in practice. 

Another passion of mine is women’s rights. I have long been actively involved in the protection and advancement of women’s rights and have been a member of organisations such as the International Federation of Women Lawyers, the African Women Lawyers Association, and Zonta International. I also mentor female colleagues and have previously volunteered in the Women’s Ward of a local hospital. Supporting organisations working in this space remains a cause close to my heart. 

Lastly, I am passionate about executive recruitment. Connecting the right people with the right opportunities on the right terms is something I truly enjoy. I have successfully forged strategic links, managed high-profile appointments, and sourced Independent Non-Executive Directors for regulated entities. To remain relevant in this space, I actively network and stay attuned to emerging opportunities, ensuring I can make the first move when needed.