“There is a common thread among GCs: the desire for exchange and collaboration.”

An interview with Daniel van Geerenstein, Head of Legal/Vice-President (equiv.) at Jack Wolfskin in Germany.

How would you describe the state of the GC Community in your region? 

The GC community in our region is diverse, reflecting the wide range of sectors present. In Frankfurt, the community is particularly influenced by financial themes due to the city’s status as a major financial hub. Despite this diversity, there is a common thread among GCs: the desire for exchange and collaboration. This is driven by shared challenges such as Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) issues and other regulatory requirements that ultimately land on the desks of legal departments across various industries. 

How has it changed since you first moved in-house?

Since moving in-house, I have observed that the GC community has become more interconnected. However, maintaining these connections has become increasingly challenging. The primary obstacles are shrinking resources, both in terms of time and financial budgets. Despite these challenges, the community remains well-connected, with a strong foundation for collaboration and knowledge sharing

Why is expanding your network important to you? 

Expanding my network is crucial because it allows me to engage in meaningful exchanges that are rooted in real-life experiences. This type of interaction is invaluable for gaining actionable insights and practical takeaways. By connecting with professionals who have faced similar challenges, I can learn from their successes and setbacks, which helps me navigate my own professional landscape more effectively. 

What kinds of connections or discussions would be most valuable to you?

The most valuable connections for me are those within similar or related industries, as engaging with peers who have faced comparable challenges allows for a deeper understanding.

What do you want to achieve by collaborating with other GCs and senior in-house lawyers? 

By collaborating with others I aim to leverage their experiences and insights to address common challenges and enhance my professional capabilities. The primary goal is to avoid reinventing the wheel by learning from others who have faced similar issues, thereby streamlining my approach to complex legal matters.

Are there specific topics, challenges, or experiences you’d like to share or learn more about?

Specific topics and challenges like Reporting Obligations, Sustainability and Green Claims but also other Regulatory Compliance, such as implementing the Omnibus Directive for online price transparency and the Barrierefreiheitsstärkungsgesetz (Accessibility Strengthening Act) in Germany, are areas where I would appreciate insights from peers who have successfully navigated these regulations.