In this Q&A with The Texas Lawbook, Enbridge’s Kathryn Hand discusses the traits she seeks in outside counsel, what outside counsel need to know when working with her and more.
Texas Lawbook: What has been your best day at Enbridge so far?
Kathryn Hand: Probably our Team Build event this year, which was actually two days. Our team is split between Houston and Edmonton, Alberta. It was so nice to finally meet the rest of our team in person. On one of the days, I gave a presentation on “Building Client Relationships” and why that’s important for in house lawyers. I was nervous the message would fall flat, but everyone contributed to the discussion and embraced the idea. It felt really good to not only have my team affirm my idea, but also just to work with a group that is so respectful and collaborative.
Lawbook: What has the transition from a law firm to a GC been like? Any surprises?
Hand: Good. I was somewhat surprised to learn that figuring out the appropriate client group is not always easy or clear.
Lawbook: What are the factors you consider when deciding about hiring outside counsel?
Hand: Quality of work, communication and turnover. If a firm has high turnover, you as the client then pay every time someone new has to get up to speed on a matter. We need to work together to improve the lifestyle associated with the practice of law, it’s better for everyone.
Lawbook: What does outside counsel need to know about you?
Hand: The details matter. If I receive a draft with a bunch of errors, it does not instill confidence. Also, utilize associates for more than just drafting!
Lawbook: What questions have I not asked that I should be asking?
Hand: I am a mother of three to Angela (5), Margaret (2) and Patrick (6 months)! It’s very important to me to show our children that you can have a family where both spouses work outside the home and make it work.
Click here to read the Lawbook profile of Kathryn Hand.