Focus on… Getting a seat at the Table 

I serve in my current position, as general counsel to the Neopharm Group, a broad group of companies active in a range of industries because I know how and when to put my foot down. Not really my foot, but rather my “behind”. This means sitting on a chair at the table, the ‘table’, where issues are discussed, and decisions are made.

A successful general counsel should provide on-going, hands-on advice when it matters most and be proficient in advising the ‘table’ on risks, mitigation actions and other requirements, or considerations, in a practical, efficient solution-focused manner. In most cases you must work in real time, to showcase the unique added value of an in-house counsel who is constantly present and who understands the business. Without this skillset, it makes it much harder to fulfill basic obligations as general counsel, such as managing the legal risks and advancing the business goals without pushing the brakes too often or delaying matters after a business decision has already been made. This task of placing oneself at the table is crucial. It starts by having a direct line to the CEO and top management and continues by gaining the trust of all levels of internal clients. This trust leads them to acknowledge one’s skills, experience and knowledge as beneficial and valuable assets to be brought to the table to best serve the growth and security of the business.

A significant part of being present and heard is linked to one’s personal abilities and approach. Perhaps this is somewhat obvious to an Israeli, as we are known to be aggressive at times. However, I believe that these attributes should be made clear to all decision makers. This is especially important for those issues which the general counsel has indicated to be of particular concern or posing a potential risk. It is clear to me that not having a seat at the table results in less efficient and less successful advice to the business and impedes fulfilling the general counsel’s role. I am fortunate that I have the full support of the business to do so and have succeeded in this essential aspect of having a seat at the ‘table’ while building the Neopharm Group’s legal department.