Recently, we’ve turned our attention to the pivotal role General Counsels (GCs) play in shaping the operational dynamics within their respective organizations. In a Law.com recent dispatch, Angela Steele, the U.S. general counsel at McDonald’s, drew attention by modestly shying away from the spotlight.
However, beyond this seemingly modest attitude often lies a complex and demanding role. The expectations on GCs to lead, advocate, mentor, and even mediate within their organizations is a continuous balancing act requiring acute judgement.
Highlighting this essential dynamic, Kermitt Brooks, Chief Legal Officer of The Guardian Life Insurance Co., emphasised: “A lot of times what your colleagues are looking for in a leader is support and guidance and the ability to marshal resources when they are needed”. Navigating this leadership terrain successfully could make the difference between facilitating a smooth operation and unwittingly working against the broader team’s efficiency and effectiveness.
With the increasingly multifaceted responsibilities that corporate legal professionals are required to assume, this in-depth understanding of the GC’s role and impact may provide them with key insights to optimise their own roles in synchrony with their GC and the wider team.