Team size: 27

What are the most significant cases or transactions that you have recently been involved in?

A notable case that we were involved in involves a series of alternative dispute resolution proceedings where we successfully resolved multiple high-stakes disputes with minimal litigation. By leveraging mediation and arbitration, we managed to protect the company’s interests while avoiding lengthy and costly court battles. These cases not only safeguarded our financial interests but also maintained our business relationships.

Could you share an example of a time when you came up with an innovation that improved how your legal team works and did not come at a large expense?

I spearheaded the development and implementation of an in-house legal training programme that significantly enhanced the skill sets of our legal team without incurring large expenses. The programme includes regular workshops, webinars, and knowledge-sharing sessions focused on current legal trends, regulatory updates, and practical skills development. Additionally, I introduced a mentorship system where senior lawyers mentor junior team members, fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional growth. This initiative has improved team performance, fostered collaboration, and enhanced our capacity to handle complex legal issues internally.

How do you see the general counsel role evolving in Thailand over the next five-ten years?

Over the next five to ten years, the role of the general counsel in Thailand is expected to evolve significantly. The general counsel will increasingly be seen as a strategic business partner, integral to decision-making processes at the highest levels. This evolution will be driven by the growing complexity of the regulatory landscape, the necessity for robust risk management practices, and the strategic importance of data privacy and cybersecurity. General counsel will need to take a more proactive approach, providing not only legal advice but also strategic insights that drive business growth and innovation. They will play a crucial role in ensuring corporate governance and ethical compliance, reflecting the increasing importance on corporate social responsibility and sustainability.

Which recent political, economic, or regulatory changes have impacted your work the most in recent years?

Recent changes in data privacy regulations, particularly the implementation of Thailand’s Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA), have had a significant impact on my work. Ensuring compliance with these stringent data protection requirements has required extensive efforts in revising internal policies, training staff, and implementing new data management systems. Additionally, the economic uncertainties and market fluctuations driven by the global pandemic have necessitated a more agile and responsive legal strategy to navigate the challenges faced by our business.

How do you motivate and manage your legal team well?

Motivating and managing my legal team involves a combination of clear communication, professional development, and recognition of their efforts. I set clear expectations and provide regular feedback, ensuring that each team member understands their role and the impact of their work. Professional development is a key focus, with opportunities for continuous learning through training programmes, workshops, and seminars. I also emphasise the importance of work-life balance and create a supportive work environment where team members feel valued and heard. Recognising achievements, whether through formal awards or informal acknowledgments, helps maintain high morale and motivation within the team.

Are the effects of AI on the legal world overplayed, or underplayed?

The effects of AI on the legal world are generally underplayed. While there is considerable discussion about the potential of AI, its transformative impact on the legal profession is still unfolding. AI has the potential to revolutionise various aspects of legal work, from document review and legal research to contract analysis and predictive analytics. By automating routine tasks, AI can free up legal professionals to focus on more strategic and complex issues, thereby increasing efficiency and accuracy.    

However, the adoption of AI in the legal field requires careful consideration of ethical implications, data privacy concerns, and the need for ongoing human oversight. As AI continues to evolve, its influence on the legal profession is likely to become more pronounced, offering significant opportunities for innovation and improvement in legal services.