An inspiring day of insights and connection at Waardenburg Castle
Highlights from the first General Counsel & Legal Counsel Dinner
On April 3, 2025, on a day that truly delivered on the promise of a warm spring afternoon, the first AvdR Legal Counsel and General Counsel Dinner took place at the atmospheric Waardenburg Castle. It was an exceptionally inspiring gathering, where a select group of legal professionals came together for an afternoon and evening filled with knowledge sharing and making valuable connections.
The speaker lineup was impressive, featuring insights from Mirjam de Blécourt, accomplished lawyer and partner at Baker McKenzie, Danielle Pinedo, also a respected partner at Baker McKenzie, the sharp political scientist, Americanist, and Dutch Senator Koen Petersen, and the dynamic Lerisha (Lee) Naidu, managing partner of Baker McKenzie Johannesburg.
At the heart of the discussions was the potential impact of a new Trump administration on various aspects of the business world. Special attention was given to the implications for Dutch companies, with a strong focus on current themes such as diversity, equity, and inclusion policies, and their close connection to employment law.
Following the engaging presentations and discussions, there was ample opportunity to further explore the insights gained and build new connections during a lively networking reception. The day concluded on a high note with a refined four-course dinner— a culinary journey that perfectly matched the enchanting ambiance of the historic castle. It was a memorable day that once again highlighted the power of knowledge sharing and networking within the Dutch legal community.
Speakers
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Danielle Pinedo
lawyer and partner
Baker McKenzie -
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Lerisha Naidu
managing partner
Baker & McKenzie Johannesburg -
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Koen Petersen
political scientist, Americanist and member of the Dutch Senate
VVD -
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Mirjam de Blécourt
lawyer, partner and member of the EMEA+ Management Team
Baker McKenzie
Session
Mirjam de Blécourt and Danielle Pinedo
The recent policy shifts under the Trump administration have had significant implications for labor law and DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) policies. Mirjam de Blécourt and Danielle Pinedo analyzed the impact on the workplace and how companies have been adjusting their DEI strategies. They highlighted the consequences for Dutch businesses and offered practical recommendations for navigating these changes, taking into account Dutch legislation and regulatory frameworks.
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The lecture addresses the topic of diversity and inclusion within companies, with a focus on the Netherlands and the influence of U.S. legislation. In the Netherlands, there is a legal framework that requires companies to promote diversity, including targets and quotas for women on boards of directors and supervisory boards. It is emphasized that, in addition to diversity legislation, there are other laws that have an impact, such as the Dutch Works Council Act (Wet op de Ondernemingsraad, OR), which requires companies to promote diversity and obtain approval for changes in policies.
In the U.S., the Trump administration implemented measures that prohibit companies and federal agencies from taking affirmative actions based on race, gender, or other characteristics. This has sparked a debate on whether such measures should be followed and what this means for companies worldwide, including European businesses doing business in the U.S.
There is unrest among U.S. law firms, which have been urged by Trump to review their diversity policies and comply with the new rules. Some companies have removed their diversity pages from their websites or eliminated the term "diversity," although "inclusion" may still be permitted. The lecture outlines how these changes in legislation and practice are impacting companies worldwide.
Listen to the lecture
Session
Koen Petersen
Koen Petersen, political scientist and member of the Dutch Senate, gave a lecture on the impact of Donald Trump's presidency on international politics. He analyzed the factors that contributed to Trump's victory and the consequences for global economic and political dynamics. Petersen discussed Trump's appointments, the influence on international security and geopolitical relations, and the economic implications of his policies, which are crucial for strategic decision-making and risk management within companies.
Session
Lerisha Naidu
Lerisha Naidu led a session on Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity (ID&E), building on previous presentations. Using thought-provoking statements, she explored with the participants the impact of the new Trump administration on DEI policies and the consequences for Dutch companies. Naidu, known for her expertise in ID&E, facilitated a lively dialogue where various perspectives were shared.
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Lerisha Naidu delivered a speech at the General Counsel Meeting, emphasizing the crucial role of legal departments in a dynamic and increasingly complex world. Her address focused on the challenges and opportunities within the legal landscape, with special attention to the influence of regulation, ethics, technology, and strategic collaboration.
Key themes from her speech:
Regulatory Developments and Compliance
Naidu discussed how legal frameworks are continuously adapting to changes in the economy, geopolitics, and technology. She emphasized the need for companies to stay proactive and anticipate new laws and regulations to remain compliant. This requires a flexible approach to risk management and compliance.Ethics and Corporate Responsibility
Beyond legal obligations, she highlighted the importance of ethical leadership within legal departments. Companies must not only comply with the law but also actively contribute to fair and sustainable business practices. This means General Counsels are increasingly involved in ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) initiatives and corporate responsibility.Technology and Digitalization
The impact of artificial intelligence (AI) and digitalization on the legal sector was a key topic. Automation and data analytics are transforming the way legal professionals work. Naidu stressed that embracing these technological advancements is essential for greater efficiency and strategic advantages.Strategic Partnerships and Collaboration
Legal departments are becoming less isolated and are increasingly working alongside other business units. She underscored the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, where legal professionals play a central role in business strategy, risk management, and innovation.The Role of the Modern General Counsel
In conclusion, Naidu noted that today’s General Counsel is no longer just a legal expert but a strategic advisor adding value across multiple levels of an organization. This requires continuous professional development, adaptability, and a forward-thinking mindset.
She closed with a call to action, urging all attendees to remain proactive and innovative in their legal strategies, constantly adapting to the evolving business and legal landscape.
Listen to the lecture
Experiences that matter
THE DINNER IN PICTURES
Did you enjoy this day?
The second General Counsel & Legal Counsel Dinner is scheduled for October 2, 2025. Are you excited to attend the next dinner, which will feature another fascinating program?
The first details are now available on the website; Keep an eye on it for updates on the program, speakers, and registration process.