What are the most significant cases or transactions that your legal team has recently been involved in?

We have a long history of M&A activity at CRH and have a strong pipeline of transactions. As deputy GC – M&A (Europe), our team provides legal support for all aspects of corporate and M&A transactions, including due diligence, drafting and negotiating transaction documentation and related matters. We have an active M&A strategy within CRH and a strong track record of value creation. As a result of this, we work very closely with the business to advise and support on all legal aspects here, to include innovation, strategic partnerships and alliances, and venturing.

As a general counsel, how do you anticipate and prepare for potential legal and regulatory challenges that may arise, particularly in light of emerging technologies and evolving business landscapes?

The changing macro environment, changes in construction, rapidly evolving regulatory landscape and changing customer expectations all bring many opportunities for us. Part of our role in legal is to constantly stay ahead of the ever-changing legal and regulatory environment to be able to advise the business on the legal impact of delivering on our vision to develop sustainable solutions that build, connect and improve our world. As a team, we pride ourselves on remaining proactive, and staying close to the business so that we can keep up with the pace of change and anticipate the legal challenges that will likely impact us now and in the future.

How have you attempted to bring the legal department closer to your business colleagues? 

We regard legal as being a world-class, globally integrated function within the business and work in close partnership with them to help guide and deliver its strategy, anticipating and meeting its needs and finding solutions. We provide a proactive service and support the business by providing them with adequate legal support and information to guide them as they work in these ever changing and increasingly regulated times.

Working in M&A means that we are already closely aligned with the business, we understand the business’ vision and strategy for value creation and growth, and that is also helpful in ensuring that we adequately address their needs and demands.

In saying that, we always seek feedback, maintain an open relationship with the business so that we can continually make improvements and are not afraid to ask questions from the business, their needs, their current strategy – essentially remaining curious and adopting a growth mindset.

How much influence do you, as a general counsel, have on the diversity and inclusion policies of your organisation? 

I believe that we all have a big role to play in this. We all know that diverse teams are more effective and good for business, and they help promote innovation, creativity and problem solving. Many studies show that with greater diversity, companies succeed. Legal team members are active participants and leaders in our I&D fora, initiatives across the organisation and resource groups. As a team we pride ourselves on being inclusive, aware, ensuring visibility and celebrating successes. Part of our role in I&D is to continue to foster a truly inclusive and diverse culture.

In general, what would you like to see change about the external law firms you use?

Get to know our business better, be curious about our strategy and be proactive in sharing knowledge (“saw this and thought of you”), offer resources (secondees) at times of intensity. In general, ask questions more often and really provide that value-add without the need to always have a matter open to bill against. Taking this approach will generate far more work from us in return!