Where do you work, and what is your role?
I am the General Counsel, Secretary, and Head of Sustainability at ECOS, a leading US manufacturer of green household cleaning products.
What is the coolest thing about your line of work? Or about the industry you are in?
Working for a manufacturer of green consumer products is incredibly rewarding. I love that I can walk around our factories, see our products being made, and then find them in stores across the US and in over 65 countries worldwide.
What is the most surprising thing you’ve found working there?
I have been surprised by the importance of not just grasping the law but also understanding the business itself. My three years of experience in operations and management prior to joining the legal team have been invaluable. I use that knowledge every day to provide the best legal advice for our teams.
What do you love about being an in-house attorney?
I love being able to consult with expert outside counsel in various practice areas and then bring practical business advice to our teams. Every day brings new opportunities and unique challenges, which keeps the job fun and engaging. We are never bored.
Are you currently working remotely? If so, what tips can you share with other in-house attorneys regarding how you have made that successful?
We are on a hybrid plan right now. I make the most of my days in the office by avoiding calls and long video conferences, focusing instead on worthwhile in-person interactions that I can't get from home.
Why did you join ACC and what do you like the most about being an ACC SoCal Member?
I joined ACC in 2012 when I was new to in-house and my company’s first-ever General Counsel. The ACC was invaluable in helping me set up a new legal department. The networking and support I received then and continue to receive now is my favorite part of our local chapter community.
What is your favorite ACC event and why?
My favorite event is the ACC SoCal Annual Gala! We always have the best speakers, and the silent auction is full of great items and experiences. I look forward to seeing the larger SoCal legal community at this event every year and never miss it.
What advice would you give to young attorneys?
It's not our job to have all the answers on the spot. Don’t be afraid to tell your company when you aren’t sure about something. Let them know you will do the research and get back to them—and then make sure you do.
When you aren’t practicing law, what are you doing?
You can find me at a dance competition, baseball tournament, or driving my five children around town.
What’s something about you that fellow ACC SoCal members might be surprised to know?
I love maps and was a geography major. Ask me what direction north is, and I’ll almost always get it right.
Do you have a favorite quote or motto?
Always treat others the way you would like to be treated.
Learn more about ACC Membership Benefits: https://www.acc.com/membership.
