Throughout your career, what principles or values have guided your approach to leadership and decision-making within the legal department, and how do you believe they have contributed to your success?

In my career as a lawyer of one of the biggest banks in the world the principles and values crucial for leadership and decision-making undoubtably encompass integrity, empathy, diligence, fairness, business-oriented mind-set, pragmatism, and continuous learning. These values not only foster personal and professional growth but also contribute significantly to achieving success.

Acting with honesty, integrity, empathy, diligence, fairness and maintaining high ethical standards is paramount. Honesty fosters trust, builds credibility, and creates a foundation for meaningful and enduring connections. It also promotes a clear conscience and self-respect, as living honestly aligns one’s actions with their values. While sometimes challenging, honesty is crucial for genuine communication, effective problem-solving, and maintaining moral integrity in society. Integrity builds trust with clients, colleagues, and the judiciary, forming the foundation of our reputation as a trustful lawyer and business-oriented partner. Ethical decision-making ensures that actions taken are justifiable and sustainable long-term and understandable by the business as needed.

Understanding and respecting the perspectives and needs of our internal clients, colleagues, and opposing parties is essential. Empathy enables us, as lawyers, to better serve our clients, foster teamwork, and negotiate effectively. It also helps in building strong internal and external client relationships and improving communication.

The legal field is dynamic, with laws and regulations constantly evolving. Continuous learning and professional development ensure that we remain knowledgeable and competent. Staying updated with legal trends and new precedents helps in making well-informed decisions and providing top-tier legal advice, anticipating risk and no- surprises for the business, which they much appreciate.

As someone who has achieved remarkable success in the legal profession, what advice would you offer to aspiring general counsels or young legal professionals seeking to make a meaningful impact in their careers?

Young legal professionals are required to demonstrate commitment and always be humble and willing to learn. Their reputation is their greatest asset. Upholding the highest standards of integrity and ethics is fundamental for their success in their careers as reliable lawyers.

The legal field can be challenging, resilient and persistent, learn from setbacks, stay determined, and continuously strive for improvement. Develop strong organisational and time management skills to handle multiple cases and tight deadlines effectively, make also sure to manage expectations of your internal clients are key.

Achieving success involves a combination of professional skills, personal development, and strategic networking. Prioritise excellent client service, pay attention to details, be responsive, empathetic, and committed to your clients’ needs.

Find a mentor to support navigating the legal profession, an experienced lawyer who can provide guidance, share their experiences, failures, successes, strategics, networking.

Continually improve your legal knowledge and stay updated with the latest laws and regulations. Specialise in a particular area to become an expert.

But… most of all, be happy in whatever you choose to do because everything will become easier. Understand your values, goals, and passions. Make decisions that align with who you are and what you want to achieve.