Team size : Six

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?  

The mining industry presents several unique legal challenges. Regulatory compliance, environmental regulations, permitting, worker safety, international trade, relations stakeholders and investors are major issues that require legal input. Managing legal aspects during instability or crises in the mining industry requires an integrated, proactive and strategic approach to align with the broader business strategy and ensure sustainability. Where legal strategy is aligned with business objectives, it supports business continuity plans, financial stability measures, and strategic pivots if necessary. 

From a legal perspective, we aid by identifying potential legal vulnerabilities through thorough risk assessments and we work with the business to develop contingency plans and crisis protocols specific to our operations if needed. From a compliance perspective, we work together with the business to ensure strict adherence to environmental regulations, mining laws, and safety standards, while maintaining close communication with regulatory bodies. Clear communication channels, both internal and external, accurate and timely legal advice, enable informed decision making and builds trust. We engage proactively with employees, investors, suppliers and local communities, while providing legal guarantees and adhering to ethical standards, demonstrating the company’s commitment to responsible mining practices. 

From a purely legal perspective, we review contractual terms to strengthen protective clauses, work with the internal teams to identify industry specific risks and mitigate potential exposure. We prioritise alternative dispute resolution, such as arbitration, to ensure quick, confidential and effective dispute resolution. 

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? 

As a subsidiary of Eldorado Gold, we implement the Sustainability Integrated Management System (SIMS) to embed and measure sustainability practices developed by Eldorado Gold across its operations. SIMS is a comprehensive framework that provides minimum performance-based standards for all Eldorado sites in the areas of occupational health and safety, environmental performance, social performance, security, and general management of sustainability topics. SIMS was developed in alignment with industry internationally recognised standards, through a collaborative effort with direct participation from corporate teams and a dedicated group of sustainability professionals from across Eldorado’s operating regions. SIMS part of our values and is a critical tool for driving sustainability performance across our business. It ensures that sustainability is not just a peripheral concern but a core component of decision-making processes and operational strategies. By leveraging SIMS, Eldorado Gold systematically tracks and manages its sustainability performance, ensuring compliance with international standards and regulations. The system facilitates transparent reporting, continuous improvement, and effective stakeholder engagement, demonstrating the company’s commitment to responsible mining practices and sustainable development. 

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

In my view, the current very significant legal development that affects our company and industry in Greece is the implementation of the EU Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) which came into effect in July 2024. CSRD directive requires detailed sustainability disclosures in line with European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS), including carbon emissions, resource usage, waste management, biodiversity conservation, labour practices, community engagement, and governance practices. Implementation of the ESRS presents immediate challenges, such as updating reporting systems, training staff, and integrating new data collection methods into existing practices without disrupting operations. Additionally, companies must engage more actively with stakeholders, including investors, regulators, and local communities, to communicate their sustainability efforts effectively. Sustainability reporting becomes part of the annual financial statements and is audited, adding credibility, and ensuring accuracy. While the directive poses implementation challenges, it also offers a unique opportunity for the business to enhance its reputation, build stakeholder trust, and contribute to sustainable development. Legal plays a very important role in CSRD implementation, both in reviewing the necessary disclosures as well as in the overall compliance need.