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

It is, of course, a team effort, but I’m particularly proud of the work we did on the legal and licensing aspects of two new gas production platforms in the North Sea, which have now started producing gas. Navigating the political and geopolitical influences on Dutch policies and governmental decision-making was a challenge, but we managed to get everything legally in order, along with the complex contracts involved.

Another project I look back on with pride is translating several EU Directives — often ambiguously implemented in Dutch policies — into practical steps for the business. Finding the most sound and workable way to ensure compliance required careful interpretation, but it was rewarding to bridge the gap between legal complexity and operational reality.

Have you had any experiences during your career as a lawyer that stand out as particularly unique or interesting?

One of the most enriching experiences in my career has been working as a lawyer in Brazil and Singapore for several years. In Singapore, I was also responsible for other markets across Asia, including Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia. Working across different legal jurisdictions, each with its own regulatory frameworks, business environments and cultural nuances, has been valuable — both professionally and personally.

It has given me an understanding of the interplay between law and culture, as well as the ability to navigate different legal systems and learning where local legal issues could arise, and hence when to escalate to local counsel. Adapting to different ways of negotiating, decision-making and regulatory interpretations has helped me to think strategically and approach legal challenges with a flexible mindset.

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

The role nowadays is beyond the fundamental ability to translate legal language into practical forward-moving business solutions. A modern general counsel needs a keen understanding of society and politics. Anticipating societal shifts and their potential impact on the organisation is becoming increasingly important. An understanding of public affairs and having communication skills are essential for a general counsel. Of course, legal expertise should be a given, both personally and within the team. The role goes beyond ensuring compliance; it’s about proactively shaping the organisation’s position in a complex and evolving legal and political landscape.