“If Iyiola says no, then I cannot say otherwise.”

How Iyiola Alokolaro-Oyefeso, Group Head Legal Services at AA&R Investment Group in Nigeria, turned principled legal leadership into executive loyalty.

A few years ago, while leading my team in negotiating a $2 million Purchase Agreement for our rice milling operations, I discovered significant hidden legal and financial risks. I pushed back and insisted on revisions that would protect our business interests.

Sensing resistance, the other party attempted to bypass me and reached out to the Executive Director overseeing the deal.

His response was one I will never forget:

“𝑰𝒇 𝑰𝒚𝒊𝒐𝒍𝒂 𝒔𝒂𝒚𝒔 𝒏𝒐, 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝑰 𝒄𝒂𝒏𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒔𝒂𝒚 𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒘𝒊𝒔𝒆.”

That moment reminded me that trust is not automatic. It is earned through consistent value and alignment with the organisation’s vision.

Here are three ways General Counsels can build that trust:

1. 𝐔𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐁𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐢𝐭𝐬 𝐆𝐨𝐚𝐥𝐬. Ensure your legal guidance advances the organisation’s broader objectives.

2. 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢s𝐞 𝐀𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐨 𝐃𝐞𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐥. A meticulous approach not only prevents costly oversights but also builds trust.

3. 𝐃𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐏𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐀𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧. Let your commitment be seen in the way you serve, not just in what you say.

In boardrooms and beyond, the most trusted voices are those that combine expertise with purpose. Be that voice.

Now, I’d love to hear from you: What are some ways you’ve built trust in your organisation whether as a lawyer, a leader, or a team member?

Let’s learn from each other.