Team size: Six  

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? 

During my previous roles within the private practice, I introduced an innovative solution that enhanced our agreement drafting process and significantly saved time and resources. 

Recognising the repetitive nature of drafting agreements and the need for quick access to suitable legal clauses, I proposed the implementation of a cloud-based repository. This repository stored a comprehensive collection of legal clauses that could be easily accessed and utilised by our legal team during the drafting process. 

The repository was designed to be user-friendly and efficient. It incorporated a powerful keyword search tool, allowing us to quickly locate relevant clauses based on specific criteria. This eliminated the need for time-consuming brainstorming sessions and manual searches through various documents. 

To ensure the repository remained up-to-date and accurate, we established a regular review and updating process. Our team collaborated to analyse and refine existing clauses, incorporating changes in relevant laws, regulations, and industry practices. This iterative approach allowed us to maintain a library of the best and most accurate language for agreement drafting. 

The implementation of this cloud-based solution significantly improved our efficiency and productivity. By eliminating the need to start from scratch with each agreement, we saved a substantial amount of time. Our team members could focus more on the complex legal work and strategic aspects of our cases, rather than spending excessive hours on repetitive tasks. 

Furthermore, this innovation proved to be cost-efficient. We leveraged existing cloud storage infrastructure, minimising the need for additional investments. Additionally, by automating the process of clause retrieval and updating, we reduced the potential for errors and inconsistencies, thereby mitigating legal risks. 

To ensure successful integration and adoption of the repository, I organised training sessions for the legal team. These sessions provided hands-on experience and guidance on effectively utilising the cloud-based repository and its search functionalities. We also encouraged feedback from team members to continuously improve the system’s usability and effectiveness. 

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

As a legal manager within a large organisation, balancing responsibilities is a key aspect of my role. When it comes to managing my responsibilities as a legal manager alongside involvement in dispute resolution and M&A matters, I employ the following strategies: 

I prioritise my tasks and responsibilities based on their urgency and importance. This enables me to focus on critical legal matters while ensuring that the needs of dispute resolution and M&A matters are also addressed in a timely manner. 

I understand the importance of managing my time efficiently. I allocate specific time slots for different responsibilities, such as dedicating certain hours of the day to addressing M&A activities (if any). By adhering to a well-structured schedule, I can effectively handle both ongoing legal corporate work and specific M&A matters. 

I believe in the power of delegation and collaboration. I work closely with my legal team and other relevant stakeholders. By leveraging the skills and expertise of team members, I can ensure that ongoing legal responsibilities are not compromised while still being actively involved in legal dispute and M&A matters. 

I maintain open and transparent communication channels with all involved parties. By clearly communicating my availability and workload, I can manage expectations and set realistic timelines for all disputes and M&A matters. This allows me to maintain a balance and ensure that all parties involved are aware of the progress and potential delays. 

To effectively handle both legal responsibilities and dispute resolution and M&A matters, I stay updated with the latest legal developments and industry trends. This enables me to make informed decisions and provide accurate legal support while actively participating in dispute resolution and M&A activities. 

What emerging technologies do you see as having the most significant impact on the legal profession in the near future, and how do you stay updated on these developments? 

The legal profession is undergoing a transformative phase due to rapid advancements in technology. Several emerging technologies are poised to have a significant impact on the legal profession in the near future. Two key technologies that stand out are artificial intelligence and blockchain. 

Artificial intelligence has the potential to revolutionise various aspects of the legal profession. AI powered tools can streamline legal research, analysis, and significantly reducing time and effort. Additionally, AI can assist in predictive analytics, enabling lawyers to make data-driven decisions and assess the potential outcomes of legal cases more accurately. 

Blockchain technology also holds great promise for the legal profession. Its decentralisation, immutability, and transparency features can enhance the security and efficiency of legal transactions, such as smart contracts and property transfers. Blockchain can streamline authentication processes, reduce fraud, and simplify the execution of complex legal agreements. 

To stay updated on these and other emerging technologies, I actively engage in continuous learning and professional development. I attend legal conferences, seminars, and webinars that specifically focus on the intersection of law and technology. These events provide valuable insights into the latest advancements, trends, and best practices in leveraging technology within the legal profession. 

Additionally, I follow reputable legal technology publications, research reports, and industry blogs to stay informed about the latest developments. These resources provide in-depth analysis and case studies on how emerging technologies are being applied in legal practice. By regularly reviewing academic and industry publications, I can stay abreast of evolving legal tech trends and their potential implications for the legal profession.