M.

Senior member of the in-house legal team for a Japanese multinational's commodities trading subsidiary, acting as primary counsel to the executive committee on legal, governance, compliance and risk. Over six years, I've built the compliance infrastructure, managed cross-border disputes, structured commercial transactions, and worked to make the legal function a genuine business partner across the organisation. Among the work I'm most proud of: building the compliance framework across Singapore, China and India from the ground up; directing legal strategy for a complex cross-border dispute that was resolved successfully while preserving the commercial relationship; and establishing a global network of legal and compliance professionals, including an annual roundtable hosted in Singapore. Day-to-day I advise on sanctions, export controls, data protection (PDPA), and trade finance as part of deal structuring and risk management.

Seconded to a major international mining company, advising on general corporate, international trade and compliance matters. Initiated a project to close gaps against industry standard terms while strengthening the company's internal risk position.

Head Legal Counsel for South East Asia, Australia and New Zealand, and Compliance Manager for South East Asia, across multiple business units including oilseeds, grains and flavours. Managed external counsel and led settlement negotiations for a USD100 million lawsuit in Indonesia, successfully resolved. Engaged directly with government regulators and ministries in Myanmar to advocate for legislative reform to investment and corporate laws. Led M&A due diligence and integration processes across the region, and coordinated cross-functional teams to open new sales offices in Thailand, Myanmar and the Philippines.

Legal counsel to the Metals Trading business, advising on commercial contracts, regulatory compliance and dispute management across the energy, shipping and metals sectors.

Advised on trade finance, commercial agreements and regulatory matters across South East Asia and ANZ. Led multi-party negotiations for a USD600 million finance and leaseback transaction involving 10 VLCCs, including a third-priority loan with a full security package. Negotiated with state and federal governments in the Philippines and Vietnam on regulatory approvals for the placement of a floating transfer station in territorial waters.

Shipping, commodities and general litigation, arbitration.

Shipping, insurance and general litigation.

Corporate finance and corporate advisory.