About

One of Ireland’s traditional “Big Four” banking institutions, Bank of Ireland has a history going back to the 18th century, making it the oldest bank still operating in the country. As the largest lender to the Irish economy, the bank has a high level of legal consideration and associated risk. The legal team is known to be proactive and at the cutting edge of regulatory reform, both essential elements to support the bank considering the economic downturn that the Irish economy recently experienced. After being bailed out by the government during the country’s banking crisis, Bank of Ireland managed to double its profits in 2015, to €743m, and has had a large part to play in the increased lending to Irish businesses and individuals. The legal guidance of Bank of Ireland is overseen by Carol Browne, who has a wide remit as head of legal, corporate and treasury, manufacturing and operations. The diverse remit of the lead lawyer goes to demonstrate the importance that the bank place on the support of the legal team, entrusting it with responsibilities outside of the traditionally expected sphere for in-house lawyers. Like many banks, Bank of Ireland has had to consolidate its network of retail banking branches; the team has overseen the legal technicalities of these closures and associated redundancies, ensuring that it is completed within high levels of compliance.