What impact has being a member of the South Florida Women In-House Counsel Group had for you?
This group is an amazing group including some of the most inspiring women I have met in my career and my life. Being part of this group has significantly expanded my professional network, allowing me to forge truly meaningful relationships. These connections have blossomed beyond the professional realm, evolving into cherished friendships that enrich my personal life as well. Our group offers a safe haven where we can freely share our experiences, opinions, and ideas. It’s a nurturing environment that fosters the development of our leadership skills, not just as professionals, but as women, mothers, and attorneys. The support we provide each other is invaluable. We discuss relevant legal topics and openly share personal experiences from both our professional and home lives, which shape us into the leaders and professionals we are today. And let's not forget, we know how to have fun while doing all of this!
What is your current role, and can you describe a typical day in your position?
After spending several years working in contract review for some of the biggest corporations in SFL, I made a significant change in 2020 by entering the compliance world for the largest wine and spirits distributor in the US. In my current role, I am responsible for providing legal support in connection with alcohol beverage trade practice compliance and regulatory matters. This support enables our sales and other business teams to execute the company's business strategy and achieve our goals while ensuring compliance with both federal and state regulations. Given the highly regulated nature of the alcohol beverage industry at both the federal and state levels, I dedicate a substantial portion of my time to this area of compliance.
My responsibilities include developing and providing trade practice compliance training for all personnel in our selling divisions, drafting and creating policies, procedures, and guidelines, and offering ad hoc advice related to alcohol beverage trade practices within 15 states in the US. Additionally, I spend about 40% of my time reviewing and approving supplier and/or our participation in event sponsorships in those 15 states.
In the past year, our team has broadened its scope, and we are now working on developing a more comprehensive ethics and compliance program to address additional risk areas for the company.
How do you align legal strategies with the overall business goals in your company?
I firmly believe that for us to succeed, we must act as true business partners. While our primary role is to protect the company, it's crucial that we understand how to assess and balance risk with the company's needs and goals. I strive not to be seen as the department of NO. Instead, my approach is to always look for creative solutions that allow the business to achieve its objectives while remaining compliant with the rules and laws or assuming minimal risk. It's a delicate balance, but I am committed to finding ways to support our business endeavors in a compliant and innovative manner.
What book or magazine do you have on your nightstand right now? What book are you currently reading?
Confidence Creator by Heather Monhan
Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg