Legal counsel, Romania and Central and Southern Europe | Michelin Romania
Mihaela Baciu
Legal counsel, Romania and Central and Southern Europe | Michelin Romania
Bio
I am a dedicated senior in-house legal counsel with over seven years of experience, having transitioned from a former lawyer with the Bucharest Bar. My move from private practice to an in-house role was driven by the desire to align legal expertise directly with business objectives, enhancing both strategy and operational alignment. At Michelin, I am fortunate to be in a position where I can contribute to the company’s success while fostering a culture rooted in values and integrity.
My journey with Michelin began in corporate law, where I was responsible for managing corporate governance and compliance across a wide regional portfolio, spanning seven countries and nine legal entities. This role demanded not only a solid understanding of corporate law but also the ability to navigate diverse regulatory environments, ensuring that our operations remained compliant while remaining flexible. My approach has been focused on proactive risk assessment and policy development, establishing a framework that enables the business to meet its objectives in a secure and compliant manner.
As my role evolved, I expanded into the field of data privacy, assuming responsibility for regional compliance in this area. I led the creation and implementation of privacy policies and measures that support our commitment to regulatory excellence across all markets. This responsibility required a deep understanding of data protection laws, as well as close collaboration with cross-functional teams to integrate privacy-conscious practices into everyday operations. In this capacity, I have worked to foster a culture of data responsibility, ensuring our practices not only meet legal requirements but also uphold the trust of our customers and stakeholders.
In addition to privacy, I am entrusted with managing relationships with external legal partners. This includes coordinating with law firms across multiple jurisdictions to protect Michelin’s interests in complex matters. My goal in this role has been to build strong, collaborative partnerships that enhance our legal positioning and provide strategic support.
Currently, my responsibilities have broadened to include the legal oversight of our purchasing and industrial sectors. This role involves navigating legal frameworks in procurement and industrial operations, working closely with internal teams to ensure smooth, compliant operations. My focus remains on identifying and mitigating potential legal risks while supporting the company’s objectives in sourcing and production.
I chose to join Michelin because of its commitment to values and its people-centred approach. The company’s emphasis on both professional and personal development has allowed me to refine not only my legal expertise but also critical soft skills, which are essential in today’s collaborative and dynamic work environments. I am proud to contribute to a company that prioritises ethical practices and the continuous growth of its employees.