Team size: 180 

Could you share an example of a time when you came up with an innovation that improved how your legal team works and did not come at a large expense?  

The creation of tools for the improvement of internal workflows in-house improved how we worked. We used SharePoint for the management of validation and issuance processes of internal regulations, and developed another to automate the collection, storage, and search of documentation related to General counsel area activities.  

What are some of the main trends impacting the industry sector you work in in Italy?  

The evolution of ESG regulations is one the most current topics affecting the undertakings operating in a wide range of industries including the insurance sector. The emerging ESG framework has multi-level impacts ranging, among other things, from organisational changes to elements of disclosure on business choices.  

Remaining primarily in the insurance sector, the Retail Investment Package – which aims to strengthen the confidence and protection of retail investors – could have potentially significant impact both at the product approval process level and on disclosures relating to insurance investment products.  

Furthermore, the new technological scenarios are leading companies towards digitalisation, which requires continuous investments and attention to regulatory discipline. Regulation (EU) 2022/2554 (DORA came into force this year, with regard to digital operational resilience for the financial sector and now ESAS are working on some technical aspects. 

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?  

Sustainability is an increasingly complex challenge that has brought a rapid and general transformation. Hence, Generali has made it a cornerstone of its Lifetime Partner 24 group strategic plan.  

For us, transparency and the offer of suitable products are a guarantee of value, and we have worked along those aspects to integrate sustainability factors, overseeing and enhancing them along the entire value-chain.  

Today, stakeholders no longer expect mere regulatory compliance from companies; rather, they require a real and concrete commitment. Therefore, the general counsel plays the role of a partner to all functions facing this challenge, the role of a guide in the implementation of new regulations impacting business processes and a role of advisor for leadership on strategic issues that can drive a positive change beyond compliance. 

How do you stay updated on the evolving regulatory landscape in Italy and ensure compliance with domestic laws, EU regulations, and industry-specific regulations?  

I read and analyse regulatory newsletters from National and EU legislators as well as from the relevant Supervisory Authorities. Furthermore, within Generali Italia, we set up a regulatory monitoring office which, among other activities, provide me and the company’s top management a focus on relevant trends and legislation which could have impact on the country Italia businesses.