In a changed and still-changing world, the definition of success for in-house counsel has evolved
In a year that saw the business world significantly altered, GCs have come to play increasingly valuable roles in their organisations. As in-house counsel are called to take on strategic adviser responsibilities that go beyond the traditional legal scope, the definition of a successful GC has also been changing to reflect this new environment.
So what drives success for the modern GC? The 2021 In-house Legal Summit brings together top names in the in-house legal space to answer this question in a panel discussion that delves into the evolving role and function of GCs, how organisational expectations have risen to match this evolution, how GCs relationships with other departments have changed in the process and how GCs can effectively navigate organisational dynamics in their roles as advisers on key functions like strategy and operations.
Attendees will hear from in-house leaders like David Field, chief legal counsel at Canon Oceania, Nova Entertainment head of legal Ben Willis, Schindler GC Blanka Moss and Tourism Australia legal counsel Ria Manguray on the factors dictating a GC’s success. The discussion will be moderated by Ivana Kovacevic, Aristocrat Technologies Australia Pty Limited’s assistant GC – ANZ, privacy and business functions.
In addition, PPG Industries’ ANZ and SEA regional counsel Nick Galloway talks about dealing with boardrooms and how GCs can navigate the dynamics and politics involved – particularly when ethics are in consideration.
“It’s easy, just do what’s right…right? What does that really mean if there’s a conflict between ‘acting in the best interests’ and the paramount duty to the administration of justice? Acting in the best interests in the short term and the long term? Your duties as officer, employee and lawyer? Clear instructions and the law? The actions of the company and your personal values?” Galloway asks.
Galloway addresses these issues and more in a panel discussion also featuring Greenpeace Australia Pacific GC Katrina Bullock and Winc. GC Troy Swan. These in-house experts will also talk about various communication strategies for GCs, juggling different personalities and when outside counsel may need to come in.
The 2021 In-house Legal Summit takes place from 8:45am to 4:00pm on 23 February, and is themed “In-House Counsel as Trusted Business Advisor.” The full list of speakers for the virtual event may be found here.
Those who are interested may view the full agenda here, and those looking to join the event may register here.
