What are the projects that you are most proud of working on over the past 12 months?

Pride takes on a unique meaning as an in-house lawyer. Last year, I successfully managed and implemented a major restructuring project to ensure the stability, longevity, and future growth of the business. Yet, the word “proud” did not appear in my annual appraisal. Winning a significant court case or reaching a favourable settlement naturally sparks pride, but the work of an in-house lawyer is often about executing strategic business decisions and managing their legal and human consequences, both positive and negative. While I may not feel pride in the traditional sense, I find satisfaction in knowing I did my best for everyone involved.
My role as an in-house lawyer extends far beyond the legal realm. It is all-encompassing, requiring a strategic, forward-thinking approach to position the company for long-term success. Over the past year, we have made great strides in strengthening our presence in existing markets while laying the legal and regulatory groundwork for expansion into Asia. This has involved navigating complex compliance frameworks, addressing regulatory challenges, and facilitating our entry into Japan. Our efforts culminated in opening a new office in Tokyo – an important milestone in our global growth strategy.
Looking ahead, we are committed to deepening our presence in Asia and identifying new opportunities for sustainable expansion. Even when challenges seem insurmountable, it is through these seemingly small, incremental wins that meaningful advancement is ultimately achieved. I take immense pride in leading these efforts, not just for the tangible results, but for the true recognition that real progress comes from relentless and collaborative effort. For me, pride is the benchmark by which progress, and effort are measured, and I am honoured to spearhead our growth strategy.
How do you approach managing legal aspects during periods of instability or crisis to ensure the organisation’s resilience?
The key is to stay proactive and prepared, ensuring that the organisation has a robust legal framework in place before a crisis hits. Regular updates to policies and processes enable the organisation to pivot swiftly and maintain operations while safeguarding its interests.
Equally important is maintaining open lines of communication with key stakeholders within the organisation and external legal advisors who can offer timely, situation-specific guidance. When everyone understands the legal landscape and their role within it, it fosters shared responsibility and builds confidence across the team.
Training employees is also critical to ensuring readiness for any crisis. By equipping them with the tools to handle legal challenges and follow established protocols, we enhance their ability to respond quickly and effectively. A crisis should not only be seen as something to survive, but as an opportunity for growth. By staying agile and united, we can emerge from difficult situations stronger, more resilient, and better positioned for future success.

What do you think are the most important attributes for a modern in-house counsel to possess?

In today’s fast-paced corporate world, the role of in-house counsel has evolved significantly, requiring several key attributes for success. Adaptability is crucial, as the legal landscape constantly shifts due to technological advancements, regulatory changes, and societal expectations. In-house counsel must embrace this dynamic nature, ready to pivot when needed, much like a dancer adjusting to the rhythm of the music. This flexibility not only helps navigate complex legal issues but also fosters proactive risk management, enabling the organisation to stay ahead of potential legal pitfalls.
Strong communication skills are equally vital. In-house counsel must translate legal knowledge into actionable advice for stakeholders without a legal background. Building relationships based on trust and understanding is key, as it positions in-house counsel as a valuable partner. By fostering open dialogue and collaboration, they ensure that legal considerations are integrated into business decisions, driving success for the company.

What do you think sets you apart from other in-house counsel?
What sets me apart as in-house counsel is my unwavering commitment to understanding not only the legal frameworks that govern our operations but also the unique culture and values of both my organisation and the industry we belong to. I believe effective legal counsel is more than just offering advice; it’s about being a genuine partner to the business.
For example, in a recent project, I took the initiative to meet with team members from various departments. This allowed me to understand their perspectives and challenges, which informed my legal advice and helped us address potential risks together. This holistic approach fosters trust and collaboration, making it easier for all of us to work toward achieving our goals.
I truly believe that having a blend of skills and a deep understanding of our company’s ethos allows me to add unique value, ensuring that we not only comply with the law but also thrive in our industry.
What is a cause, business or otherwise, that you are passionate about?
One cause I am deeply passionate about is empowering people to believe in themselves and recognise their potential. Throughout my career, I’ve encountered individuals whose self-confidence has been significantly shaken, leading them to feel disconnected from their abilities. As a leader, it has become my mission to help these individuals rediscover their strengths and build confidence within the workplace. I believe that empowering people to manage projects, make confident decisions, and collaborate effectively is essential in creating a healthy, high-performing corporate culture. When employees feel supported and capable, it fosters growth, productivity, and long-term success.
In addition to this, I am incredibly passionate about my role as Chairperson of Seldia, the European Direct Selling Association (Seldia), where I have been re-elected for a second term. Leading Seldia allows me to advocate for the sector, ensuring our members’ voices are heard and championing the industry’s interests at both a European and global level. I believe that innovation and growth within our industry require a collaborative approach, one that spans borders and fosters meaningful partnerships that reach far beyond the business itself. I take great pride in my work to preserve the integrity of the industry, promote ethical practices, and create business opportunities that will continue shaping the future of industry for generations to come.