Team size: 18 

How do you approach managing legal aspects during periods of instability or crises, and how does your legal strategy align with the broader business strategy to ensure the organisation’s resilience?   

Managing the legal aspects during periods of instability or crises demands a proactive and strategic approach to ensure the organisation’s resilience while aligning legal strategy with the broader business objectives. To navigate these challenging times effectively, several key steps should be considered. 

Firstly, it is essential to assess the situation thoroughly to understand the key issues at hand, evaluate the materiality of the risks, and identify potential liabilities across all relevant jurisdictions. This assessment will enable the anticipation of further legal issues or risks and the identification of immediate actions required to contain or mitigate damage. 

Secondly, forming a crisis management team that possesses expertise in the relevant jurisdictions and understands the affected business areas can significantly enhance response efforts. Appointing an internal core crisis team, along with designated substitutes, ensures that decision-making is focused and swift. 

Establishing clear procedures in advance is another crucial measure. Implementing protocols and familiarising employees with them through training can provide a structured response during times of instability, helping to mitigate confusion and inefficiencies. 

Data protection is also paramount when navigating different jurisdictions. It is important to recognise that privilege and data protection regimes may vary significantly. Handling sensitive information on a need-to-know basis outside the core team is vital to maintaining confidentiality and compliance. 

Engaging stakeholders is essential for maintaining transparency and trust. This includes managing regulatory authorities, auditors, shareholders, and, for listed companies, adhering to disclosure obligations. Additionally, suppliers and customers may require reassurance during turbulent times, and it may be prudent to involve the company’s insurers for immediate support. 

Finally, a robust public relations strategy should be established. Engaging the PR team or a specialised public relations agency promptly can help manage reputational concerns and maintain the organisation’s image during crises. By taking these steps, organisations can strengthen their legal strategies and enhance their overall resilience in the face of uncertainty. 

What do you see as the major legal challenges for businesses in Italy over the next five years, and how are you preparing to address them?  

Looking ahead to the next five years, businesses in Italy are poised to navigate a dynamic and evolving legal landscape that will require vigilance, adaptability, and strategic foresight. One of the most significant challenges they will face is regulatory compliance amidst continuous updates and changes in legislation. 

Environmental regulations are becoming increasingly stringent, with a growing emphasis on sustainability. Companies will need to develop and implement comprehensive sustainability strategies that align with regulatory requirements and market expectations. To support this shift, it is crucial for legal and compliance teams to receive ongoing education and training on new regulations to ensure that they remain informed and equipped to guide their organisations effectively. 

Additionally, the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) presents both opportunities and challenges for businesses in Italy. While AI holds tremendous potential for innovation and operational efficiency, it also brings forth a range of legal issues that companies must navigate. Key concerns will include accountability, data privacy, bias, intellectual property rights, employment law implications, and regulatory compliance. Addressing these issues will necessitate a proactive and informed approach from legal professionals. 

In conclusion, the legal landscape for businesses in Italy over the next five years will undoubtedly be challenging. Companies must adopt a proactive and comprehensive strategy that leverages the expertise of legal professionals, invests in technology, and maintains the flexibility to adapt to regulatory changes. Building robust compliance frameworks and fostering a culture of continuous learning and adaptation will be essential for effectively navigating the complexities of the evolving legal environment.