Briefly, Tell Us About Your Role In The Organization And The Mandates You Handle?

In my current role at Nucleus Office Parks, I oversee the legal aspects of the company’s southern portfolio, encompassing active office/tech parks, joint ventures, and infrastructure/energy projects. This role entails comprehensive legal management from post-acquisition to exit phases, covering asset management and restructuring. While commercial leasing is a core focus, the role extends beyond, integrating elements of Real Estate, Banking & Finance, Infrastructure, M&A, and Securities/Capital Markets, presenting an engaging and multifaceted challenge.

Tell Us Something About Your Journey So Far As An Avp- Legal In In House Role?

Well, so far, the journey has been quite enriching and challenging. The positive aspect is that there has never been a dull day, and ample opportunities for learning and exploration exist. The level of responsibility and stakes is higher here compared to my previous role in law. What stands out is the practical business experience combined with a decade of M&A experience in a law firm. This decision to move in-house feels worthwhile, as the comprehensive understanding gained from both perspectives surpasses the limitations of focusing solely on one field.

On the downside (lighter note only!), I don’t miss the long hours typical of law firms. However, I recognize that this seems inherent to the legal field, whether in a firm, an individual role, or in-house, especially in real estate and fund-based roles.

Do You Feel That The Role Of General Counsels And Leadership In In House Roles Is Evolving In Today’s Business Scenario? And If So, How?

Yes, definitely. As mentioned, the stakes and responsibilities in an in-house leadership role are significantly higher than in other positions. There is no shield of disclaimers or qualifiers; decisions directly impact the business. Therefore, achieving an intelligent balance between legal and business considerations is crucial, often more so than commonly perceived. In today’s corporate landscape, especially those associated with funds or backed by major investors, in-house legal roles play a substantial and strategic role. The days of in-house roles being confined to templated agreements, particularly in the industries I am referring to, are gone. While there is still reliance on outsourcing and law firms, the evolving trend involves outsourcing for bandwidth and niche expertise, while in-house teams maintain full oversight and involvement in every aspect of the work.

What Are The Key Challenges That In House Counsels Must Deal With On A Regular Basis, Irrespective Of The Industry Sector?

In brief, the most significant challenge lies in bridging the gap between conservative legal perspectives and business/practical requirements, all while minimizing actual risks. Additionally, teams, even when outsourcing, are required to possess strong expertise across various legal domains and address issues for every department within the organization, alongside meeting overarching business needs. The demands and stakes become particularly intense when the organization is supported by institutional investors.

What Are Your Thoughts On Improving Synergies Between Law Firms And Corporate Inhouse Legal Teams?

To enhance synergies, prioritizing a robust communication channel with a dedicated point of contact is crucial. Law firms are subject to attrition, making a continuous point of contact well-versed in client history and requirements vital. Additionally, understanding the business and involved stakes is essential to grasp the relevance of documents or queries that the law firm is handling. When an inhouse team relies on a law firm, immediate availability to meet critical requirements and timelines is practically impactful, considering the significant dependency on the law firm at the decision-maker’s end.

Lastly, continuous collaboration is vital for an effective partnership between law firms and in-house legal teams, extending beyond legal work and queries to encompass knowledge management and training programs.

What Are Some Of The Key Tools That In House Counsels Can Use For Continued Learning Education (cle)?

In my opinion, there comes a point where experience becomes the most effective learning tool in the legal domain. In-house lawyers, dealing with a variety of legal issues and queries firsthand, gain valuable insights and knowledge, making continuous engagement the optimal way to stay informed, regardless of outsourcing. Personally, I have a keen interest in writing on topics of interest and participating in moots, which I find to be highly effective learning tools whenever time permits.

For new lawyers, there is now a vast array of virtual tools available for learning. It is highly recommended for them to make the most of these resources.

Any Advice For Someone Exploring A Legal Career As An In-house Counsel?

I’ll be brief and direct here:

Don’t assume that an in-house role is an antidote to the challenges of a law firm or an easy path for a lawyer. The level of challenge is comparable and at times even higher, with added responsibility for business stakes. Gain experience in a law firm first and apply that knowledge in your in-house role. This approach makes a significant impact, and the reverse can work, but starting directly in-house may not be as effective. Stay open to learning and exploring; avoid limiting yourself while working on any matter.