Team size: Ten 

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? 

As part of a major event (the FIFA World Cup), teamwork is everything. In strategising about how to communicate and train the broader team on our compliance policies, we wanted to find a cost-effective solution. We came up with the concept of cheat sheets for each compliance policy and an in-house training provided by a combined legal and compliance team. This allowed our team to work together, build relationships as services partners across the project and get key messages out. This was an inflection point for the team as teamwork was seamless going forward.  

How do you balance your responsibilities as a GC with your involvement in dispute resolution and M&A matters? 

The job of any director is to balance day to day and strategic tasks. The key from my perspective is not get lost in the weeds and avoid the temptation to micro-manage. Trust your team to get the details right and follow the strategic path you have outlined. This allows the team to get on with their work efficiently and for managers/ directors to keep their eye on steering the legal ship in the right direction.  

Can you foresee any key developments to the way general counsel work over the next five years? 

Everyone is talking about AI/Chat GPT, Bard, etc. Acceptance of technology as not just a tool but as a genuine resource will need to be considered in budgeting, resourcing, planning and even delivery solutions. Ignoring this major development would be at your own risk and as potential significant cost.  

How do you prioritise diversity and inclusion within your legal department, and what initiatives have you implemented to foster a more inclusive and equitable work environment? 

Open door and open communication, open team meetings and encouragement for all to be inclusive are of critical importance in getting the most out of team members. Efficiencies are only possible when people feel comfortable and free to be themselves and voice their opinions without fear of judgement. This is possible in a professional environment, so long as respect is given equally to all.