Anne E. Robinson, who assumed the role of Senior Vice President and Chief Legal Officer at IBM in July 2024, has been instrumental in integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into the company’s legal operations. Her approach emphasizes building trust to facilitate customer adoption, a strategy she believes leads to sustained engagement.
Robinson’s extensive background includes serving as General Counsel at Vanguard, where she led global public policy, legal, compliance, and investment stewardship functions. Prior to that, she held senior legal positions at Citigroup and American Express, providing her with a comprehensive understanding of complex legal and regulatory environments. ([newsroom.ibm.com](https://newsroom.ibm.com/Anne-Robinson?utm_source=openai))
Under her leadership, IBM’s Legal and Regulatory Affairs (LRA) division has undergone a transformation, leveraging AI to enhance efficiency and decision-making. The department employs a hybrid AI stack, combining internally developed AI tools with solutions from trusted partners. This technology is applied in various areas, including contract acceleration, clause analytics, policy discovery, and compliance support. ([barandbench.com](https://www.barandbench.com/interviews/how-ai-is-reshaping-the-gc-role-ibms-anne-robinson-on-running-a-global-legal-empire-in-the-age-of-ai?utm_source=openai))
Robinson views AI as a collaborator that enhances the capabilities of legal professionals. By automating repetitive tasks, AI allows lawyers to focus on higher-order thinking and strategic initiatives. She emphasizes the importance of AI literacy, commercial acumen, and adaptability for the next generation of in-house lawyers, highlighting the evolving role of legal professionals in the age of AI. ([barandbench.com](https://www.barandbench.com/interviews/how-ai-is-reshaping-the-gc-role-ibms-anne-robinson-on-running-a-global-legal-empire-in-the-age-of-ai?utm_source=openai))
IBM’s commitment to AI extends beyond internal operations. The company has pledged to skill 5 million learners in AI, cybersecurity, and quantum technologies by 2030, reflecting its belief in the critical role of talent development in global AI adoption. ([barandbench.com](https://www.barandbench.com/interviews/how-ai-is-reshaping-the-gc-role-ibms-anne-robinson-on-running-a-global-legal-empire-in-the-age-of-ai?utm_source=openai))
Robinson’s leadership exemplifies a strategic integration of AI into legal operations, positioning IBM at the forefront of technological innovation in the legal field.