An interview with Mahmoud Mahrous, Legal Director NALI at Unilever in Egypt.
How would you describe the state of the GC Community in your region?
The GC community in Middle East and North Africa has evolved significantly over the years. When I first moved in-house, the focus was primarily on traditional legal functions such as compliance, risk management, and litigation. However, the role of GCs has expanded to encompass a more strategic and business-oriented approach.
Today, GCs are seen as business leaders and key advisors to the executive team, involved in shaping business strategy, driving innovation, and fostering a culture of ethical decision-making. The community has become more collaborative, with GCs frequently sharing best practices, insights, and resources to navigate complex legal and regulatory landscapes.
How has it changed since you first moved in-house?
There has been a noticeable increase in the use of technology and data analytics to enhance legal operations and decision-making processes. This shift has enabled GCs to provide more proactive and predictive legal support, ultimately adding greater value to their organisations.
Why is expanding your network important to you?
Expanding your network is crucial for several reasons:
– Knowledge sharing: networking allows you to stay updated on the latest legal trends, regulations, and best practices. This can help you make more informed decisions and provide better advice to your company.
– Professional growth: building connections with other legal professionals can open up opportunities for mentorship, collaboration, and career advancement.
– Problem solving: having a diverse network means you can reach out to experts in various fields when facing complex legal issues, ensuring you have access to a wide range of perspectives and solutions.
– Business development: networking can lead to new business opportunities, partnerships, and collaborations that can benefit your company.
What kinds of connections or discussions would be most valuable to you?
The most valuable connections or discussions for me might include:
– Legal experts: engaging with other legal professionals who specialise in areas relevant to my company’s operations.
– Industry leaders: connecting with leaders in my industry to understand the broader business landscape and emerging trends.
– Regulatory authorities: building relationships with regulatory bodies to stay ahead of compliance requirements and changes.
– Peers in multinational companies: sharing experiences and strategies with peers who face similar challenges in global operations.
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?
Collaborating with other GCs and senior in-house lawyers can be incredibly beneficial. Here are some key goals and topics that are of interest to me:
Goals:
– Knowledge sharing: exchange insights on legal trends, regulatory changes, and best practices.
– Networking: build professional relationships that can lead to future collaborations and support.
– Problem solving: discuss common challenges and brainstorm solutions.
– Professional development: learn from the experiences and expertise of others to enhance your own skills.
Topics:
– Compliance and risk management: strategies for navigating complex regulatory environments.
– Technology and innovation: how legal tech can streamline operations and improve efficiency.
– Corporate governance: best practices for maintaining ethical standards and transparency.
– Litigation and dispute resolution: effective approaches to managing and resolving conflicts.
– Diversity and inclusion: promoting a diverse and inclusive workplace within the legal department.
Challenges:
– Adapting to regulatory changes: keeping up with evolving laws and regulations.
– Managing workload: balancing high demands with limited resources.
– Maintaining work-life balance: strategies for managing stress and avoiding burnout.
Experiences:
– Case studies: sharing real-world examples of successful legal strategies.
– Mentorship: offering guidance and support to less experienced colleagues.
– Leadership: discussing effective leadership styles and techniques.
