Interview with: Özlem Kurt, Managing Partner

1) What has been your greatest achievement, in a professional and personal capability?

In the course of my diverse legal career, which encompasses a broad array of sectors and clients of varying sizes, I have confronted and adeptly navigated an array of intricate legal requirements. A notable professional milestone involves my proficiency in addressing the distinctive needs of clients, irrespective of their scale or industry, through the provision of customized legal solutions. This experience has afforded me a comprehensive understanding of the nuances within legal intricacies across different sectors.

A distinctive aspect of my career lies in the harmonization of business needs with legal knowledge. I take pride in thoroughly evaluating the unique requirements of each client, comprehending the intricacies of their operations, and aligning legal strategies with their overarching business objectives. This approach enables me not only to identify and mitigate risks but also to unearth opportunities for their sustained growth.

Presently, I hold the position of Managing Partner at a full-service law firm offering both local and international services, complemented by a team of exceptional colleagues. Within this professional capacity, one of my most significant achievements lies in establishing and nurturing a firm-wide reputation for trust and reliability.

Clients who choose Kurt & Partners do so with the confidence that their legal matters will be meticulously handled and well-cared-for. The trust placed in our firm is not easily earned but stands as a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence. This trust has become a hallmark of our practice, garnering a reputation that is both esteemed and reputable within the legal community.

Ensuring that clients feel secure and confident in entrusting their legal affairs to Kurt & Partners is, in my view, a paramount achievement. It reflects the collective dedication of our team and underscores the quality of service and reliability we consistently deliver. Building and maintaining this level of trust is not only a testament to our legal expertise but also a reflection of the strong relationships cultivated with our valued clients over time.

 

2) What do you do differently from your peers in the industry?

In my practice, my approach is distinguished by a harmonious blend of strategic foresight, innovative problem-solving, and an unwavering dedication to ensuring client satisfaction.

I prioritize a holistic understanding of my clients’ needs, not solely confined to legal aspects. By delving into their business dynamics, industry challenges, and long-term goals, I tailor legal strategies that align seamlessly with their overall objectives.

Rather than solely reacting to legal issues as they arise, I adopt a proactive stance in risk management. This involves foreseeing potential challenges, implementing preventive measures, and positioning clients to navigate legal landscapes with minimal disruptions.

I continually seek innovative legal solutions, leveraging technology and staying abreast of industry trends. This approach ensures that my clients receive not only conventional legal advice but also insights into cutting-edge practices that can provide a competitive edge.

Last but not least, fostering a collaborative team environment is integral to my methodology. By harnessing the collective expertise of diverse professionals within my firm, I ensure that clients benefit from a comprehensive and interdisciplinary perspective on their legal matters.

 

3) What advice would you give to your younger self?

The legal landscape is dynamic in parallel with changing business and technology, and staying abreast of new developments and evolving trends is crucial for professional growth.

Growth is a continuous journey, and each experience, whether positive or challenging, contributes to their professional and personal development.

Invest time in building meaningful professional relationships is as important as developing in terms of knowledge and experience. Networking not only broadens your perspectives but also opens doors to opportunities and collaborations that can significantly contribute to your career.

 

4) Can you give me a practical example of how you helped a client add value to the business?

One of our main strengths in our office is deep knowledge about our clients, their corporate structures, characteristics, needs and the dynamic of their sectors.

Understanding commercial dynamics and requirements of our clients enable us providing the most beneficial legal solution with business-oriented approach that we make significant difference and add value.

With this approach, we take part in the boards of directors or executive boards of an increasing number of our client companies.

We take a role in which we evaluate the legal risks and consequences of the company’s strategic and operational decisions. It enables these companies to be prepared for different legal areas and the risks posed by their intersections.

 

5) Within your sector, what do you think will be the biggest challenge for clients over the next 12 months?

In the upcoming 12 months, I anticipate that one of the most significant challenges for clients within our sector will revolve around adapting to and navigating the evolving regulatory landscape. The ever-changing legal and regulatory environment, influenced by factors such as technological advancements, geopolitical shifts, and global events, is poised to present clients with complex compliance requirements and potential legal uncertainties.

This challenge may extend to addressing issues related to data protection, international trade regulations, and emerging legal frameworks that impact various industries. As such, clients may find it imperative to proactively engage legal counsel to provide strategic guidance, conduct regulatory assessments, and implement tailored compliance measures.

Moreover, the ongoing effects of global events, economic fluctuations, and geopolitical developments may introduce additional complexities for clients, necessitating a nuanced legal approach to mitigate risks and capitalize on emerging opportunities.

Hence, the significance of adopting a proactive legal strategy and fostering collaboration with legal experts becomes even more pronounced, ensuring resilience and success amidst the challenges posed by regulatory uncertainties.