About

Esteemed in-house lawyer Dr Jennifer Picenoni has gained an excellent track record for her corporate and commercial work and litigation outcomes in recent years, earning herself a formidable reputation in the Swiss legal industry. Dr Picenoni joined Lindt & Sprüngli in August 2007 as senior legal counsel, and shortly after, in 2008 took over the role as head corporate legal. She reflects, ‘I have an abundance of passion for my role as general counsel for one of the most renowned chocolate manufacturers in the world’. In 2014 she became group general counsel and in 2017 the board of directors appointed her as corporate secretary of the Lindt & Sprüngli group where she continues to improve the legal department by implementing fundamental changes in communication, government affairs and risk-related functions. A large part of her success is attributed to the high performing and effective legal team she has developed, who have swiftly become key players in efforts to help the company grow in a sustainable and compliant manner. ‘As in-house lawyers we have to constantly endeavour to improve the legal function, through innovation, technology or otherwise. But at the same time, and especially if we want to continue to be seen as strategic business partners, we should aim at a larger goal, expand our ambition beyond the legal realm, and dedicate the best of our creativity and expertise to contribute to the innovation strategy of our company’, reflects Dr Picenoni. Her role involves overseeing the legal, compliance and intellectual property functions, providing high quality advice for complex transactions. In addition, Dr Picenoni has successfully advised the group on major transactions including the acquisition of Russel Stover, a US chocolate manufacturer and reorganisations to transform it into an ‘even leaner and more effective operation’.