Team size: 15

How do you approach managing legal aspects during periods of instability or crises, and how does your legal strategy align with the broader business strategy to ensure the organisation’s resilience?

In periods of instability or crisis, my approach to managing legal aspects centres on proactive risk assessment and adaptive decision-making. I ensure that our legal strategies remain flexible, enabling rapid responses to emerging issues while safeguarding core compliance principles. By closely aligning our legal strategy with the broader business objectives, we prioritise resilience through protecting essential assets, streamlining communication, and fostering collaboration across functions. This approach ensures that our legal interventions support continuity, mitigate risks, and contribute to sustainable growth even in challenging times.

What strategies do you employ to ensure the successful digital transformation of a legal department while maintaining compliance with South Africa’s data protection laws?

To drive digital transformation in the legal department while ensuring compliance with South Africa’s data protection laws, I prioritise implementing secure, scalable technology solutions aligned with regulatory requirements. This involves selecting tools that support data encryption, access control, and real-time monitoring to protect sensitive information. Additionally, I foster a culture of continuous learning, where team members stay updated on compliance standards and best practices. By embedding data protection considerations into every stage of our transformation, we achieve a digital-forward approach that enhances efficiency without compromising legal and regulatory obligations.

How do you manage and motivate your legal team to ensure high performance and professional growth?

I focus on creating a supportive and challenging environment to manage and motivate my legal team. This involves setting clear goals, providing regular feedback, and recognising achievements to foster a sense of purpose and accountability. I also prioritise professional growth by encouraging continuous learning and offering opportunities to lead projects, ensuring that each team member develops critical skills aligned with our strategic goals. By nurturing both performance and personal development, I aim to build a resilient, engaged team that contributes to our collective success.