What do you like about Tala?
The work, which is varied and challenging.
The people I work with; everyone at Tala gives 110% to support each other in achieving Tala’s mission.
How does your role help Tala’s mission?
I advise Tala on the laws relevant to its operations to ensure it remains compliant with applicable laws and best practice.
Did you always want to be a lawyer?
Yes. Initially I wanted to be a criminal lawyer, defending people who had been charged with criminal offences, but after I qualified I focused on advising companies and individuals on a range of commercial disputes (and also policy development) in law firms in London & Nairobi.
Moving in-house as a general counsel for Tala has been a huge change. Advising on legal risk and strategy for the benefit of a mission driven company is extremely rewarding.
What should one do to be a great lawyer?
In addition to understanding law and legal principles, you need to develop core skills in communication, attention to detail, strategic thinking and negotiation.
Then, in my experience, you need to listen carefully to make sure you understand the problem you are trying to solve, and then think creatively to plan (and execute) what needs to be done to get the job done!