Post on 25-Jun-2020
Engaging External Counsel in Africa and Middle East
GUEST SPEAKER PRESENTATION
Michael Rasmuson
VP – International Legal Operations Baker Hughes
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WSG Africa and Middle East
Regional Meeting
Engaging external counsel in Africa
and Middle East
VP – International Legal Operations
Michael Rasmuson
Creating a relationship
• Marketing in-house lawyers
– Want domestic experts that are internationally savvy
– Blanket emails (KYC)
– Direct communication is better
– Come to our offices
– Research our company
– Know what issues are important to us (FCPA, UK Bribery
Act, OECD)
– Effort
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Creating a relationship
• When in-house lawyers need help
– Usually urgent
– Specific issue
– We want the best, practical and solution oriented
– Contact existing firms
• Be a referral firm
– Consult others in the industry
– 3rd party services
• Chambers
• internet
© 2013 Baker Hughes Incorporated. All Rights Reserved. 4
Instructing
• Like to work with a few key individuals
– Specific contact point
• Discuss fees
– Firms must be open to Alternative Fee Arrangements
• Advising vs. Representing
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Acting in a “representative capacity”
• Firms must demonstrate that they understand their
responsibilities under applicable anti-bribery laws and
identify red flags if they occur in course of representation
• Must be Certified under our internal policy
– Complete detailed questionnaire about firm and principals
– Sign FCPA Certificate
– Commit to our FCPA and anti-bribery language in retainer
agreement
– Accept audit provisions
– 3rd party DD
– Renewed every 2 years
– FCPA Certificate is signed annually
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Retained
• Responsive
• Professional approach and communication
• Compliant
• Dedicated contact partner
• Inspire confidence
• Strategic advice
• Cost effective
• Local language
• Local nuance
• Local expertise
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