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Hugo Testé is the general counsel and vice president of legal of Vopak, a U.S. subsidiary of Netherlands-based Royal Vopak, a multinational chemical, oil and gas and biofuels storage corporation. Here Testé discusses the factors he uses when hiring outside counsel and specific items outside lawyers need to know about him.
The Texas Lawbook: What are the factors you consider when deciding about hiring outside counsel?
Hugo Testé: This is a timely question as we are currently conducting a panel process to qualify outside counsel. The primary factors for considering external counsel are subject matter expertise, DE&I initiatives, competitive rate structures and geographic proximity to our network of terminals. In order to be truly effective, I need outside counsel to reflect my company’s values and needs. Ultimately, my outside counsel should be an extension of my in-house team.
Lawbook: What does outside counsel need to know about you?
Testé: Life in-house requires practical thinking and options. So when I call, I need practical thinking and options.
Lawbook: What compels or drives you?
Testé: Leading a meaningful life. I define that as leading a life that is true to one’s values and passions. For me that means a life that supports my family, friends and artistic endeavors.
Click here for the full profile of Hugo Testé.