The role of the General Counsel (GC) in India Inc is undergoing a significant transformation, evolving beyond traditional legal functions to encompass strategic leadership roles. GCs are increasingly taking on operational mandates, stepping into positions such as business unit heads, COOs, and even CEOs. This shift signifies a growing recognition of legal expertise as integral to business strategy, particularly in navigating complex regulations and managing risks.

Drivers of Change

Several factors are contributing to the rise of the GC as a strategic leader:

• Increasing Regulatory Complexity: Indian businesses in 2024 navigated a regulatory landscape filled with compliance challenges, setting the stage for continued evolution in 2025. Areas like data protection, AI regulation, and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) reporting demand careful navigation. Companies are expected to disclose their ESG practices transparently, comply with strengthened anti-corruption measures, and adhere to ethical guidelines when integrating AI.
• Risk Management: The current business environment is fraught with risks, ranging from legal disputes to cybersecurity threats. GCs are well-positioned to assess and mitigate these risks, advising the board and executive team on strategies to protect the company's interests.
• Globalization: As India Inc. becomes more integrated with the global economy, GCs play a crucial role in cross-border transactions, ensuring compliance with international laws and regulations. Liberalization of legal services now allows foreign law firms and lawyers to practice international law in India, further integrating the Indian legal system with global markets.
• Technology and Innovation: The rapid adoption of technology, particularly AI, presents both opportunities and challenges. GCs must understand the legal implications of new technologies and develop policies to ensure responsible and compliant use.
• Corporate Governance: With rising governance expectations, GCs are playing a pivotal role as strategic advisors, aligning business objectives with national priorities and fostering compliance, innovation, and institution-building to support India's global leadership ambitions.

The Modern GC: Skills and Responsibilities

The modern GC is more than just a legal expert; they are a business leader with a deep understanding of the company's operations, industry, and competitive landscape. Key skills and responsibilities include:

• Legal Expertise: A strong foundation in corporate law, regulatory compliance, and risk management remains essential.
• Business Acumen: GCs must understand the business implications of legal decisions and provide practical, business-oriented advice.
• Strategic Thinking: GCs contribute to the development of corporate strategy, ensuring that legal considerations are integrated into decision-making.
• Communication and Negotiation: Effective communication and negotiation skills are crucial for managing legal disputes, interacting with regulators, and building relationships with stakeholders.
• Technology Proficiency: GCs must be familiar with legal technology and data analytics to improve efficiency and effectiveness. Many Indian law firms have also adopted advanced legal technologies including artificial intelligence for contract analysis, due diligence, and compliance checks.
• Ethical Leadership: GCs set the tone for ethical behavior within the organization, promoting a culture of compliance and integrity.

The Rise of the Young GC

India Inc is also experiencing a shift in legal leadership with the rise of younger GCs. The average age for first-time GCs has dropped to 35–42 years, compared to the late 40s or 50s seen five to seven years ago. Companies are prioritizing tech-savvy, agile leaders who can navigate complex regulations.

Adapting to the Changing Legal Landscape

To succeed in this evolving environment, GCs must stay informed about the latest legal and regulatory developments, invest in technology, and build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders. Regulatory changes such as the Digital Personal Data Protection Act 2023, liberalization of legal services, and reforms to the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) require proactive adaptation and strategic planning. They must also conduct regular compliance audits and risk assessments, invest in compliance training for employees, and utilize technology solutions for compliance management and monitoring.