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 manage legal aspects during crises, organisations should conduct risk assessments in advance, ensure compliance with regulations, and form a crisis management team with legal experts. Clear communication strategies, both internal and external, are crucial for aligning with business goals and supporting resilience. Maintaining thorough documentation and regularly reviewing past experiences helps in staying prepared for future crises.

What measures has your company taken to embed sustainability practices into its core business operations, and how does the role of the general counsel contribute to driving and ensuring sustainable practices within the company? 

Heidelberg Materials Group is a pioneer in the decarbonisation of the construction industry, deploying carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS) projects across several installations worldwide. The company also focuses on offering CO2-reduced products and supports the circular economy by recycling raw materials and using alternative fuels. Its sustainability efforts extend to biodiversity and water management as well. The general counsel plays a pivotal role in driving and ensuring sustainable practices within the company by closely monitoring the ever-evolving legal sustainability regulations and managing related risks, such as greenwashing claims. They strategically advise senior management and proactively identify and integrate ESG risks and opportunities into business operations.

In your opinion, what are the main trends that are salient in your country currently (these can be legal, political, economy or business-based)? 

The main trends and challenges facing the Greek cement industry include rising energy and raw material costs, geopolitical supply chain disruptions, a scarcity of technical personnel, and the necessity of participating in the green transition while remaining competitive.