Could you tell us a bit about your significant successes in your role? 

As a global team responsible for various product groups, including iron ore, aluminium, copper and other minerals, corporate and other functions, individually and as a team, we provide the business with timely, outcomes-driven advice. 

In your opinion, what are the qualities and skills needed to form a strong legal team? 

The Rio Tinto group promotes three qualities across all functions including the legal team. Care for people, for the communities in which we operate and for our environment. Courage, to try new things, speak up and do what’s right. Lastly, curiosity, to collaborate, learn and innovate. These values underpin the development of a strong legal team. 

What is the biggest risk to your industry or organization and how are you contributing to prepare your organization for this? 

Various macro-economic factors driving uncertainty around security in the supply chain, fluctuating commodity prices and the determination to achieve ambitious decarbonisation targets. The legal function plays an important role in contributing significantly to the overall strategy and its day-to-day execution to ensure that the business is confident in navigating through unchartered territories and in compliance with applicable laws. 

What challenges have you overcome to get to the position you are in today? 

The size of the commercial function of Rio Tinto in Australia had grown significantly over the last few years, and the legal function focused on providing corresponding assistance. In tandem with focusing on increasing legal resources, the team prioritised working on guidelines and strategy to streamline pre-contractual steps required from our commercial team colleagues before these are referred to the legal team.