23 lawyers showcased adaptability, raising the profile of the in-house legal market
Over the pandemic period, in-house lawyers have become cornerstones of their companies by providing advice on everything from legal to planning. Expertise in a variety of fields became of incredible value in the market.
For some lawyers, however, this was already an emerging trend even before COVID-19. The need for sound judgment was never limited to just legal matters, and it has enabled in-house lawyers to get out of their comfort zones – something In-house Leader Nicholas Kynoch, GC at Generate KiwiSaver Scheme, says has been a challenge and opportunity welcomed by many.
The Eden Park Trust corporate legal manager Kate Simkiss adds that there is an increased awareness of legal risks and obligations, especially where it involves public health mandates. Thus, there has been an expectation for in-house lawyers to be “fully across all elements – from mandates, to restructuring, H&S and policy development, operations and financial and reputational risk.”
As 2022 brings it with its own fresh challenges, this year’s In-house Leaders are out to show that in-house lawyers are crucial to a business’ management. They have held organisations together, helped their companies achieve triumphant comebacks and been at the forefront of growth initiatives.
NZ Lawyer determined the winners for the 2022 In-house Leaders from a pool of top-tier submissions. To know who made the top 23, click here!