Chief Legal Officer and company secretary | Bangkok Glass
Suravit Yingsithisawatt
Chief Legal Officer and company secretary | Bangkok Glass
Team size: Twelve
What are the most significant cases and/or transactions that you have recently been involved in?
My scope of work is engaging company secretary and manage legal team of group of business. Our group of company consist of five group of business for example renewable energy business, glass packaging business, non-glass packaging business, float glass business and sports business. Our group of companies comprise of 15 legal entities. Last year, our company group acquired more than 75% of the flexible packaging business, including a minority interest in the aluminium can business in Thailand. Moreover, we are currently in the process of acquiring a renewable energy business in Thailand and abroad.
How do you see the role of general counsel evolving in Thailand over the next five to ten years?
In the coming five to ten years, the role of general counsel in Thailand will likely undergo substantial evolution. As business landscapes become increasingly complex and globalised, general counsels will need to broaden their expertise beyond traditional legal functions to encompass areas such as compliance, risk management, and corporate governance including ESG Trends. Additionally, the rapid pace of technological advancement will place greater emphasis on cybersecurity and artificial intelligence. General counsels will also be expected to play a more strategic role in guiding business decisions and shaping corporate policies to ensure alignment with both local and international regulations.
How do you effectively motivate and manage your legal team?
Effectively motivating and managing a legal team requires fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment. I prioritise providing regular, constructive feedback, recognising both individual and team achievements, and offering ample opportunities for professional growth. Open communication is crucial, ensuring that team members feel valued and heard. Setting clear goals and expectations is also essential, making sure each team member understands their role in achieving our collective objectives. By cultivating a positive and inclusive culture, I aim to keep my team motivated, engaged, and aligned with our organisational goals.
Are the effects of AI on the legal profession overplayed or underplayed, in your opinion?
In my view, the effects of AI on the legal profession are often underplayed. While some perceive AI as merely a tool for automating routine tasks, its potential extends far beyond that. AI can significantly enhance legal opinion, improve accuracy in document review, and even assist in predicting legal outcomes based on historical data. However, it is crucial to recognise that AI cannot replace the judgment and expertise of human lawyers. Instead, it should be seen as a powerful tool that augments our capabilities, enabling us to focus on more strategic and complex aspects of our work.