Team size: 300 (globally)

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

Over the past year, I have worked on a diverse number of projects, ranging from establishing a share buy-back program (particularly complex given the Heineken shareholder structure), implementing a new governance on dealing with green claims, various M&A projects, a project to enhance our speak up framework, and a number of initiatives in the legal tech domain.

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

In my view, the most important attributes for a modern in-house counsel include adaptability, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of both legal and business landscapes. The ability to navigate complex regulatory environments while providing practical and innovative solutions is crucial. Strong communication skills and the capacity to foster collaboration across departments are also essential. As is the ability to deal with ambiguity and elevate digital skills (in particular prompting skills).

Based on your experiences in the past year, are there any trends in the legal or business world that you are keeping an eye on, of which you think other in-house lawyers should be mindful?

Based on my experiences over the past year, one significant trend is the increasing importance of digital transformation and the integration of technology in legal processes. The use of AI and automation tools to enhance efficiency and compliance is becoming more prevalent. Additionally, there is a growing focus on ESG compliance and the need for companies to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and ethical practices. We are now piloting a bot that we have developed that runs an automatic check of any green claim that our organisation proposes to make against our Green Claims policy.

What is a cause, business or otherwise, that you are passionate about?

I support the CEELI Institute, which aims to develop and provide world-class programs supporting judges, legal professionals, human rights defenders, and other individuals committed to the rule of law and anticorruption efforts.