I look after entire litigation, statutory compliances, IPR management and strategic decision making whether related to acquisitions, tie ups, joint ventures or exploring the new territories. Additionally I take care of the secretarial functions of the organization.
The journey has been a roller coaster ride with various roles handled simultaneously. Initially I joined Escorts finance Limited as management trainee in 2001 and looked after the arbitration & civil litigation for them. My next foray was into a startup in 2004 working for Assets Reconstruction companies like ARCIL etc. Since 2007 I am with Radico Khaitan Limited and heading the department from 2009. Radico has given me the responsibilities which have not only developed me as a General Counsel but also matured me as a person. As a GC you work not only towards legal side of the profession but various major decisions are taken by the management keeping a GC’s view in front. GC has to have knowledge of not just law but also the market (stock/real estate), industry (competition knowledge), changes happening in law and affecting the company, repo with senior advocates for frequent advise and so on.
There is a tectonic shift in role of GC in last two decades or so. From an Arm-chair advisor to partnering the Business in finding solution. Expectation from the inhouse counsels in market has changed drastically. The new expectation are ensuring compliances, enabling business and finding meaning solutions rather than point out some archaic or obscure law to short circuit a business proposal.
Let me put it succinctly, an In-counsel wears two hats. He acts as an Counsel, when he interacts with his internal customer, namely, the business and he becomes the Business when he interacts with the external world be it Regulator or law firms or industry body. There could be some dichotomy in these two functions.
Secondly, an in-house counsel is a ‘business enabler’ and secondly, he/she is also a ’conscience keeper’ of the Company, namely, to ensure compliance of all laws, thus there would be times when these two duties would be directly or indirectly in conflict and it depends on the person how he reconciles these two duties without sacrificing core principles.
Thirdly, the role of in-house counsel would have been simple and easy, if the laws were clear, discernable and not susceptible to more than one interpretation. Unfortunately, this is not the situation in India. This poses a great challenge and well as opportunity to In-house counsel.
Pedantic approach to issues may not be of any assistance to business in long run and therefore, law firms instead of extending advise on pure legal issues with a string of caveats dehors business context & backdrop, competition practice and archaic laws will not take them further. Thus, law firms need work closely with In-house counsels to understand the pain areas of Business and help them find meaningful solutions sans violating any law.
Well, subscribing to good law journals, learning from vicarious experiences of others and attending and participating in seminars. Many Universities have come up with short term courses in specialized areas – all these options are available, however, what matters the most is possessing the attitude ‘to learn’, which is internal. One must remain a student at heart and mind and be inquisitive and ready to challenge the paradigm or stereotypes.
Dedication, perseverance, hardwork and sincerity in any profession will lead to success and moreso in legal profession. There are no short cuts – mind you short cuts will lead you to wrong cuts. Last but not the least look for a GURU who is not only your guide and mentor but gives you continuous help in tough situations and resolving queries.
Favourite Gadget – I Phone 6- Its really fast & works with my pace
Favourite App – Food Panda- Being a foodie it’s something which I use continuously.
Favourite Automobile Brand – Merc- Let’s see when I buy one.
Favourite Writing Instrument – Any Mont Blanc pen will do
Favourite Holiday Destination – Goa- it’s the only destination which calls you again and
again
Favourite Cuisine – Anything
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