An interview with Jens Fettig, Head of Legal and Compliance at CGI in Germany.
How would you describe the state of the GC Community in your region? How has it changed since you first moved in-house?
The GC Community in Germany has evolved significantly over the past few years. Initially, it was quite fragmented, but there has been a noticeable shift towards greater collaboration and sharing of best practices, especially with the rise of digital platforms that facilitate communication and networking among GCs. In addition, there has been a shift towards strategic partnership and innovation. GCs are now seen as integral to business decision-making, driving forward initiatives that align legal strategies with business goals.
Why is expanding your network important to you? What kinds of connections or discussions would be most valuable to you?
Expanding my network is crucial for various reasons. It allows me to stay updated on industry trends, regulatory changes, and best practices. Building connections with other GCs provides a platform for exchanging ideas and experiences, which can be invaluable in navigating complex legal landscapes. Discussions around emerging technologies (such as GenAI), data privacy, and cybersecurity are particularly valuable to me, as they directly impact our operations and strategic planning. Also, connections to other peers are invaluable when it comes to finding new team members or if you are yourself looking for a new opportunity.
What do you want to achieve by collaborating with other GCs and senior in-house lawyers? Are there specific topics, challenges, or experiences you’d like to share or learn more about?
By collaborating with other GCs and senior in-house lawyers, I aim to share insights on navigating legal challenges in the tech sector, especially regarding data protection, GenAI, intellectual property and legal team management. I also hope to learn from others’ experiences in adapting to rapid changes in legislation and technology. Sharing experiences and learning from peers can help in developing robust strategies to address these challenges effectively.
