How do you feel the pandemic has changed the world of work for in-house counsel and the function of the general counsel?

The pandemic has contributed to the promotion of in-house counsel. The role has expanded beyond the standard tasks of fulfilling legal obligation and compliance; it has evolved to include crisis management skills, proactive engagement in the company’s projects and finding flexible solutions to anticipate business objectives. The role of the general counsel has assumed a whole new function – they are expected to combine leadership skills and legal competencies both in projects and people management. The ability to coordinate and lead complex projects, recruit and retain talents, promote the professional growth of team members, as well as encouraging the company to embrace ethical values, are fundamental skills that the general counsel is expected to have to guarantee the success of the company.

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

We have been involved in significant transactions recently. The main one concerns the sale of a branch of the business to a tower-company – the FTTH Agreement involves two of the major wholesale players in the market.

What do you feel are the pros and cons of an in-house legal role compared to a private practice one?

I do not see any cons of embracing a career as an in-house counsel rather than in private practice. The act of sharing and achieving results as a team rather than as a single person increases motivation. Additionally, the sense of belonging that develops when fighting for the same purpose, and the complete understanding of both the business and the market in which it operates, are fundamental to make people feel as if they are part of the organisation itself.