CEO Insights Magazine

General Counsels in the economic and healthcare landscape of Singapore are known to navigate challenges by driving innovation and fostering sustainable growth. Dr. Julie Lo, General Counsel at the National Healthcare Group (NHG) who refers to herself as an ‘accidental lawyer', entered the legal profession at a time when there were limited degree options, and law seemed the most appealing. She was inspired by the classic legal drama 'Paper Chase’, which focused on the complexities of legal practice, that advocated ‘knowledge is power, and preparation is paramount'. Dr. Julie was hence drawn to the legal profession, attending the prestigious University College London to complete her legal studies, and this laid the groundwork for a meaningful and fulfilling legal profession.

Embarking on an engaging conversation with CEO Insights Asia magazine, Dr. Julie divulges the intricate facets of her journey as one of the prominent General Counsels in Singapore. Let's delve into it.

Tell us about the various roles and responsibilities that you currently handle at National Healthcare Group as the General Counsel.

As General Counsel at National Healthcare Group, there are opportunities for me to influence and contribute through strategic planning, risk management, and ensuring legal compliance. I oversee the legal function and strategic management of legal affairs across a diverse portfolio spanning healthcare, education, medical innovations, and research initiatives, ensuring effective legal counsel, risk mitigation and compliance.

Together with my team, we constantly review and align our legal strategy with National Healthcare Group’s broader focus of ‘Adding Years of Healthy Life’, and where our work can positively impact the health and well-being of patients and the population we serve, contributing to their quality of life.

You also went to the US to study a bar course there. How has this cross-border experience helped you in your current role at National Healthcare Group?

I studied at the English Bar and became a barrister to gain specialized advocacy skills. I am also a qualified New York attorney. These have helped me understand and gain wider perspectives of various international legal systems and practices, and enabled me to guide my legal team at NHG to confidently traverse intricate legal and regulatory frameworks, successfully manage disputes, and promote international cooperation. We have as a team deepened our ability to think critically and adapt strategies in a variety of legal contexts.

What is your leadership approach? What are the guidelines or methodologies you follow as a leader?

I lead by example. As team lead, I strive to set the norm for high ethical standards, and professionalism. Another important area is mentoring.

I think that constructive criticism on difficult problems and professional aspirations should be discussed in regular one-on-one or small-group meetings where assistance and support are given. This enhances the efficiency and coherence of the team while also supporting professional growth.

Adaptability and flexibility play a critical role in workload management and sustaining progress on a variety of tasks.

I reallocate resources and modify deadlines as necessary to guarantee excellent deliverables. Building a strong support network within the team enables members to help one another when work gets busy, which promotes cooperation and a positive atmosphere.

I hope to inspire my team to provide their best efforts through this diverse approach. My objectives are to support each person's development, improve the performance of the team as a whole, and help accomplish our tasks and projects well.

How do you impart your knowledge to guide your team to bring out their best potential and how do you ensure to maintain an equal workflow and progress on every task?

I strive to create a culture of continuous learning and growth, empowerment, and mentoring to unlock my team’s full potential. Regular check-ins with my team members are done, during which we discuss any potential challenges they might be facing, caseload, and how best to manage and address them promptly. Giving constructive feedback, recognizing achievements, encouraging everyone’s professional goals and aspirations, and brainstorming solutions to improve the value of our work to the organization are ways to make our legal career in healthcare fulfilling.