Global Head of Legal & Compliance
Emerhub Group
Philippines
“As trusted members of the executive leadership team, General Counsels are increasingly expected to speak the language of the Board and the business.”
Joseph D. Gatchalian, Jr. is a seasoned corporate lawyer and senior executive corporate counsel
whose work spans the Asia-Pacific and Southeast Asia regions. He maintains an extensive
practice in corporate law, international business law, compliance, data privacy, and corporate
governance. Throughout his career, he has been a steadfast advocate for sound corporate
governance, guiding the organisation through complex regulatory landscapes and implementing
robust and standards-driven compliance frameworks that promote ethical and sustainable
business practices.
A strong proponent of embedding compliance into organisational strategy, Joseph advances a
risk-based and principles-led approach to compliance as a critical driver of regulatory integrity
and operational resilience. His work spans diverse industries, from established organisations to
emerging enterprises, giving him a nuanced understanding of both global standards and local
regulatory environments.
Known for bridging legal rigour with practical business strategy, Joseph regularly advises the
board and executive leadership on compliance, governance, sustainable growth, and corporate
accountability initiatives. Beyond his legal practice, he is recognised as a leader in exemplary
corporate governance, bringing strategic insight and a global perspective that enable the
organisation to operate with integrity, achieve resilient and accountable operations, and drive
long-term value creation.
”I would challenge the notion that in-house counsels exist to say “no” or to act as a barrier to progress.”