In-House Counsel File Practical Law The Journal
Experience: 2014–present: Verizon Communications Inc. (2017–present: Associate General Counsel & Director, Policy, Corporate Social Responsibility, Information Security, Legal and Security Department; 2014–2017: Assistant General Counsel & Director, Public Policy, Law and Security Department); 2011–2013: Ferring Pharmaceuticals Inc., Assistant General Counsel; 2010–2011: Mylan Specialty L.P. (formerly Dey Pharma, L.P.), Associate Counsel; 2009–2010: Biomet, Inc., Corporate Counsel, Commercial Transactions; 2002–2008: Schering-Plough Corporation, Senior Counsel; 2000–2002: Update Legal, Inc., Attorney.
Education: 2000: J.D., Thurgood Marshall School of Law; 1997: Comparative Law studies, University of Oxford; 1993: H.B.A. (Industrial Relations and Economics), University of Toronto.
Location of Company HQ: New York City.
Primary Industry Sector: Technology and Telecommunications.
Revenues in the Last Financial Year: $134.8 billion.
Number of Attorneys Worldwide: 410 attorneys.
Legal Department Locations: Basking Ridge, New Jersey; Alpharetta, Georgia; Irving, Texas; Washington, DC; Dublin, Ireland; Readington, England.
How is the legal function structured?
The legal function is structured by practice area, such as litigation, regulatory, compliance, employment, information technology, and security, as well as by business area, such as procurement, marketing, and sales.
What is the top area of focus for the legal department?
We are focused on delivering quality, ethical support to the business units to realize company-wide goals while remaining compliant with the Verizon Code of Conduct and industry regulations.
It is imperative to remain apprised and aware of changing legal requirements. The legal department is agile, knowledgeable, and conscientious about being compliant. For example, any changes to employment laws are reviewed and implemented in compliance with industry requirements.
What role do you play in Verizon's compliance program given the ever-changing regulatory environment?
I make sure to stay up to date on the various regulatory requirements to effectively advise the different groups I support, including by taking training courses on the latest developments affecting our organization.
How do you manage privilege and confidentiality concerns when communicating with employees?
Employees in certain key areas sign non-disclosure agreements with respect to material, non-public information. Any privileged communications are marked as such when communicating with employees. Verizon maintains strict controls over the privacy of its information when disseminating the same, whether internally or externally with partners.
What are some approaches that Verizon has taken to prioritize diversity?
Verizon hires employees from various communities and geographies that reflect its customer base. There are several employee resource groups (ERGs) for different groups of employees, such as veterans, disabled or neurodivergent individuals, women, Latin Americans, South and East Asians, and African Americans, so that employees feel valued, appreciated, and heard. Each one of these ERGs is sponsored by a senior executive.
As law departments' responsibilities evolve, what skills or competencies should in-house counsel develop to support the company's legal and operational needs?
In-house counsel should develop a solid understanding of how businesses operate in specific industries, as well as an in-depth knowledge of financial principles and regulatory requirements and guidelines.
What role do you see AI playing in the legal field over the next few years?
Even now, I see AI becoming prevalent in the legal field, including in facilitating daily work operations such as accessing, analyzing, and utilizing information efficiently. AI cannot be avoided, but controls and parameters need to be established to prevent the unlawful dissemination of information and protect the privacy of customer information.
What three things does a law firm need to do to impress you?
A law firm needs to:
What advice would you give to a prospective in-house counsel?
Be responsive and communicative. Additionally, complete tasks thoroughly and on time in compliance with business needs and goals.
What is a challenge you have faced in your role and what did you learn from it?
One challenge I faced was learning to reconcile urgent business requests with established processes and protocols to remain compliant with the Verizon Code of Conduct. I learned that consistent compliance establishes known standards and this, in turn, makes legal review more efficient.
If not an attorney, what would you wish to be?
A motivational speaker.
What are your hobbies?
Traveling, fundraising for non-profits, and mentoring youth.
What is your favorite book?
Ruth Bader Ginsburg: A Life by Jane Sherron de Hart.
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