Markus Warmholz, Head of Corporate & International Legal Affairs and Legal Operations at Hartmann Group, explores the transformation of the GC role into a forward looking architect of business strategy, ethics and innovation.
Having spent the last 15 years immersed in the global legal and business landscape – advising, learning from, and shaping approaches with some of the most forward-thinking General Counsels globally – I’ve come to recognise one undeniable truth:
The role of the General Counsel is undergoing a radical redefinition.
We are no longer legal risk managers. We’re architects of strategy, interpreters of geopolitics, cultural stewards, and ethics leaders in a fragmented, high-speed world.
In this age of convergence, expectations of GCs have evolved. Over the next five years, the divide will widen between those who lead – and those who lag behind a legacy role.
Focus Areas for Today’s GC (and Those Forecasting Tomorrow):
1 – Be the Strategic Sensor, not the Reactive Responder
AI, ESG, trade sanctions, cyber rules – regulatory complexity is exploding. GCs must be early interpreters. Not just compliance but competitive edge.
2 – Build Legal Functions Beyond Law
Tomorrow’s teams need legal, digital, ethical, and operational intelligence. GCs must grow agility, diversity of thought, and cross-functional fluency.
“Over the next five years, the divide will widen between those who lead and those who lag behind a legacy role.”
3 – Lead the Ethics of Technology
AI is as much ethical as technical. The GC is central to building internal frameworks for automation, data, and governance before regulators do.
4 – Champion Trust & Purpose
Trust is a strategic asset. GCs now steward reputation, not just risk. That means aligning legal with stakeholder expectations and brand values.
Pitfalls to Avoid:
– Chasing noise over substance
– Controlling instead of enabling
– Weak ties with CEO, CFO, CHRO, CISO, Board
– Legal’s brand being seen as siloed or reactive
The modern GC isn’t just evolving – they’re shaping the next decade of leadership.
The real question isn’t whether we have a seat at the table – it’s how we shape the table itself.
Be part of a growing global community committed to advancing in-house legal leadership.
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Head of Corporate & International Legal Affairs and Legal Operations
Hartmann Group

Germany