Team size: Four 

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? 

An effective strategy that I used to enhance the efficiency of the legal team was to train and use a centre of excellence involving lawyers in Acia Pacific and Latin America regions. By training and utilising these lawyers to review certain types of documents, the workload on my team was significantly reduced. This approach capitalised on the time zone differences, allowing for round-the clock document review and client support. As a result, the legal team achieved improved efficiency and seamless client service without incurring substantial expenses. 

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

As the MENAT head of legal for an international bank operating in the region, I manage my various responsibilities by striking a balance between overseeing the bank’s legal functions and my direct involvement in dispute resolution and M&A matters. I delegate legal tasks and empower my team to focus on critical strategic initiatives. When engaging in dispute resolution, I partner with internal stakeholders and subject matter experts and collaborate with external counsel, when necessary. Similarly, in M&A matters, I lead the legal aspects, collaborating closely with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment with the bank’s objectives. This combination of oversight, delegation, partnership, and hands-on involvement allows me to effectively navigate complex legal landscapes while guiding the bank towards successful outcomes. 

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

The role of general counsel will evolve into that of a strategic business partner, combining legal expertise with technological innovation and a holistic understanding of the broader business environment. Several key developments are anticipated to transform the way general counsel work, including: (i) integrating technology by utilising AI-driven tools, (ii) increasing focus on data privacy and cybersecurity regulations, (iii) managing legal teams and stakeholders remotely and across geographies, (iv) staying ahead of shifting regulatory frameworks, especially in areas like ESG, (v) proactively identifying risk and crisis management, (vi) fostering diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives within legal teams and organisations, (vii) shaping business strategy by leveraging legal insights and contributing to the overall success of the organisation, (viii) collaborating with alternative legal service providers to offer cost-effective solutions, (ix) leading efforts to embed sustainability and ethical considerations into business operations and (x) engaging in ongoing learning for the legal and business teams. 

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? 

Emerging technologies, especially artificial intelligence, blockchain and automation are set to significantly impact the legal profession. Artificial intelligence can support legal research, contract analysis and predictive analytics. Blockchain will potentially transform contract management and authentication. Automation will streamline administrative legal tasks. To stay updated, I joint internal and external technology forums, attend relevant conferences, follow industry publications and blogs, and stay close to businesses developing services and products that are technology bas based to understand their plans, technologies used and implementation strategies.