Our KorumLegal consultant this month is Celine Verdez. With a proven track record of negotiating complex cross border deals and navigating large scale projects in multicultural environments and regulated frameworks, she has lead legal teams and compliance professionals skillfully to deliver cost effective high-end legal services in the areas of commercial contracts (including turn key agreements), outsourcing arrangements, distribution, procurement, competition law, risk management, data privacy, cybersecurity, AML, corporate governance and other trade compliance. Celine is commercially minded and she has a keen interest in contract negotiation and compliance. She is recognised as a problem solver, strategic thinker and business oriented professional, well-versed in the ever-evolving landscape.
1. Hi Celine! Can you tell us a little about the work you are currently doing and have been doing?
For the past year, I have been assisting various corporations on a large range of transactions such as the review and negotiation of complex turn key agreements, construction and licensing agreements. I have also been engaged in the execution of a compliance program which included the risks assessment, the implementation of compliance processes, the drafting of audits and reporting procedures as well as the provision of training across the organisation.
2. What made you take the leap into working in NewLaw for ALSP’s? And why is it a good fit for you?
Several factors influenced my decision to work in NewLaw for ALSPs such as innovation and agility, collaboration and varied work. Firstly, ALSPs embrace technology, process optimisation and flexible work arrangements. This environment is appealing to me since I enjoy staying ahead of industry trends and adapting to change. Moreover, ALSPs collaborate with clients from diverse industries with different needs and multidisciplinary teams, I enjoy such variety and my ability to navigate working with different people, to adapt to various industries and multicultural environments positions me well for collaborative work. Finally, ALSPs handle a wide range of tasks, from routine legal work to complex cross border projects, a variety I find intellectually stimulating.
3. What’s the most rewarding assignment you’ve ever had and why?
Any assignment that is extended in scope or duration is always very rewarding and makes me feel valued. I was asked to extend my assignment as GC to head of compliance to pilot the AML program implementation. It provided an opportunity to delve deeper into the assignment, explore various facets of the problem and come up with comprehensive and well-rounded solutions. Moreover, it provides seeing more tangible impacts of my work which strengthens the sense of accomplishment.
4. As an experienced NewLaw/ ALSP consultant, where do you see NewLaw/ ALSP fitting into the matrix of the legal sector and how have you seen it evolve?
ALSPs have evolved from niche players to essential components of the legal sector as they now serve as both long-term solutions and quick fixes for organisations. They complement traditional law firms, offer high end specialised services, and drive efficiency through technology. Their cost-effectiveness and adaptability continue to shape the industry.
5. What trends do you expect to see in the legal services industry in the next 5 years?
Over the next 5 years, I expect the legal services industry to undergo significant transformation driven by technology and evolving client expectations. The increasing importance of legal technology, such as AI for legal research and contract analysis, will reshape the way legal services are delivered. Legal professionals will need to manage an increasing volume and complexity of information. Clients will certainly demand more value, transparency and fixed pricing structures. Efficiency and productivity will become more than ever paramount, leading to the standardisation and automation of certain legal processes. The rise of ALSPs will continue to challenge traditional law firms while legal advice will become more integrated and global. Lastly, I believe legal teams will also transform with a greater proportion of legal work being done by paralegals, data analysts and other specialists.
6. Your favourite tune? And why?
I appreciate a wide range of music but Jazz is my go-to genre at home. Much like the workplace it thrives on spontaneity, collaboration and diversity. Jazz is a versatile and profound genre that offers emotional depth, intellectual stimulation and a unique listening experience with every performance. Each piece is a new exploration of sound, making jazz an endlessly fascinating genre for me. It is impossible to have only one favourite!
KorumLegal is a boutique legal consultancy committed to providing value innovation in legal service delivery. The legal services industry is continuing to change with ‘NewLaw’ – and clients are seeking more innovative and cost-effective solutions without compromise on experience and quality
