An overview of my role is:
I am the chief legal counsel for RSA, one of the oldest and most secure cybersecurity and identity access management companies. My responsibilities include developing and maintaining the department budget, managing all legal matters, overseeing corporate compliance, handling insurance issues, and ensuring that data privacy regulations are properly followed and implemented. My work involves a combination of strategic planning, regulatory oversight, and day-to-day legal operations to support the business unit’s objectives and protect the company’s interests.
The best thing about my current job is:
The 2 best things:
- As a cybersecurity nerd, working for one of the oldest and best-known cybersecurity companies bucket list obtainment.
- The team, both my legal team and the broader RSA team.
Love what you do, and you never have to work a day in your life.
The most challenging thing about my current job is:
At a larger company, the economy and political environment always play a role. The most challenging part is not being able to control these factors but having to prepare for and react to whatever comes our way.
How did COVID affect your career:
COVID revolutionized the in-house counsel landscape. Now, we can work from anywhere in the country for any corporation. This shift was one of the main reasons RSA sought a remote Head of Legal, and I was able to land the position.
Advice I would give to new in-house lawyers:
You don’t know what you don’t know. Don’t expect to land a top in-house job five years out of law school; you’ll crash and burn. Experience is the best teacher.
Most valuable life lesson that I still apply:
(1) Don’t let the perfect get in the way of good enough; and (2) “Intellectual growth should commence at birth and cease only at death.” (Albert Einstein)
What I like most about ACC's Chicago Chapter:
I really enjoy the suburban events and meetings. For example, the recent networking mixer in Oak Brook was a great opportunity to connect with other in-house counsel in a relaxed setting. The CLE sessions offered at these events are always practical and relevant to our day-to-day work.
Worst job I ever had...
Caddie. I lasted one summer and then went to work in the kitchen at the golf course. I made more money, had more fun cooking and didn’t have to deal with the self-absorbent golfers bossing you around.
When I am not working, I like to...
I am an avid cigar aficionado, closet computer nerd, and spend time with my extended (Greek) family.
If I were not practicing law, I would probably be:
I’d probably wish I was practicing law, but I’d be working as a cybersecurity engineer or investment banker.
My favorite vacation spot:
Greece. It was heaven on the islands. The food and the culture, second to none.
I am currently binge watching...
Law & Order (the original)—again, for the umpteenth time. 21 seasons of awesomeness.
