This session supports General Counsel in moving beyond traditional legal roles to become influential strategic leaders. Learn how to build key relationships, navigate Executive Committee and Board dynamics, advocate for yourself, and position for board opportunities, while mastering internal politics and fostering collaboration to drive long-term organisational impact.

The rapid rise of LegalTech and AI is transforming how in-house legal teams operate, prompting leaders to rethink hiring practices, adapt training for lawyers, and create new career pathways at the intersection of law and technology. At the same time, legal functions face the challenge of sustaining their impact when stakeholders can increasingly turn to AI for quick answers. This session will explore how organisations are navigating these shifts and what it means to build a future-ready legal team that remains a trusted, strategic partner to the business.

Most observers – at least in the West – agree that the twenty-first century has been particularly tumultuous. But while some explain the volatility of our times by reference to historical analogies, e.g. moments from the twentieth century such as the interwar years, others claim that we are in a moment of polycrisis for which there is no precedent. In this talk I split the difference: it is wrong to assume the 21st century will resemble the 20th, but there are other historical precedents we can use to better think about our current predicament.

Introversion can be a powerful asset in leadership, offering unique perspectives and approaches to problem-solving. This session explores how leaders in the legal profession can recognise the diverse range of strengths within their teams and, crucially, how it is the leader’s role to harness those skills and bring out the best in every individual. We’ll examine leadership and communication styles that empower introverts, strategies for building balanced and high-performing teams, and ways to thrive in environments that often reward extroversion. A panel of leaders will share experiences and practical tools to help both introverted professionals - and those who lead them - unlock their full potential.

In today’s data-driven workplace, legal leaders can strengthen their influence by translating their team’s contributions into measurable impact. How do we ensure that Legal functions can move away from being seen as a cost centre to value-accretive departments with high ROI? This session explores how to leverage data to showcase your department’s strategic value, shape perceptions, and demonstrate your essential role in driving organisational success. Learn practical strategies for turning metrics into a powerful narrative that elevates your team, amplifies your voice, and positions you as a key driver of business outcomes.

Risk is a double-edged sword - some embrace it while others shy away. This session will explore what a healthy “risk culture” looks like and how businesses can foster it effectively. We’ll delve into the nuanced relationship between risk and opportunity, addressing the misconception that risk culture opposes innovation. Participants will engage in discussions about strategies that can harmonise risk-taking with sustainable growth, examining how to create an environment where risk is seen as an enabler rather than a hindrance. Let’s uncover how to navigate the fine line between caution and opportunity, ensuring that risk serves as a catalyst for growth.