Utain Vichaipairojwong – GC Powerlist
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Thailand 2024

Healthcare

Utain Vichaipairojwong

Senior legal director - Metropolitan Asia | Kenvue

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Thailand 2024

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Utain Vichaipairojwong

Senior legal director - Metropolitan Asia | Kenvue

 
What are the most significant cases or transactions that you have recently been involved in?   
 
In 2021, Johnson & Johnson announced the separation of its global consumer health business from its pharmaceutical and medtech businesses, resulting in the formation of Kenvue, the world’s largest pure-play consumer health company by revenue. This business separation was a global transaction, and it was successfully completed in 2023. Kenvue became a publicly listed company on the NYSE in May 2023 and has since continued its strong business operations.   
 
We worked on the project in Thailand and other markets from the beginning until its completion. The transaction in each market presented different sets of challenges that needed to be addressed from several perspectives, all with the aim of achieving the same goal. We demonstrated leadership, knowledge, and collaboration within the team, which contributed to the overall success of the global transaction.  
 
How do you see the general counsel role evolving in Thailand over the next five-ten years?  
 
The role of general counsel in Thailand will become increasingly critical for the business in the near future, aligning with international trends. General counsel will have more opportunities to expand their capabilities and acquire new skill sets, gaining in-depth knowledge of the business and industry. They will provide strategic advice within the context of overall business objectives in a compliant manner to their business and functional counterparts.  
 
Furthermore, general counsel will be able to add greater value to the business in various areas beyond their core legal knowledge. They will be involved with shaping the organisation, guiding business decisions, and offering feedback and suggestions on new business opportunities. Additionally, general counsel will actively represent their organisation in external industry and professional engagements, enhancing their knowledge and visibility while strengthening the business’s reputation.  
 
How do you motivate and manage your legal team well?  
 
It is very important from the outset that OKRs, goals and objectives, and business and legal priorities are clearly communicated to all team members. Regular check-ins are necessary to ensure the team does not lose sight of what it should be focused on. The team leader should be an enabler, helping the team handle their work efficiently and effectively when needed. The team leader should also understand the strengths and weaknesses of each team member and support their professional and personal development. Furthermore, having transparent communication and being open to the team’s feedback, and leading by example will increase trust and collaboration among team members and across the organisation. 
 

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