Q: How is the role of general counsel evolving, and how have you adapted?
A: The role of the general counsel has changed to mirror the evolving expectations the business has from the in-house legal department. There is an ever-increasing premium put on skills beyond comprehensive substantive knowledge of the law. Clients demand practical, risk-appropriate advice, quickly and thoughtfully packaged and delivered. To meet these demands, in-house lawyers need to hone continually their communication, presentation and project/time management skills. It is the general counsel’s role to ensure that the legal team understands and is measured by those imperatives, providing the tools necessary to succeed.
