Interview with Claudius Bingel
You have been working in the field of Legal Services for many years. Could you briefly introduce your background and the key focus areas of your work?
After completing my law degree, I pursued an MBA in Compliance Management. Since 2014, I have worked as a Legal Counsel in the industrial sector, particularly in manufacturing. My career path includes roles in the foam industry, chemical industry, and manufacturers of commercial vehicles, industrial drying systems, and electric drives. My main areas of expertise are drafting, reviewing, and negotiating contracts, setting up and leading legal departments, and corporate compliance.
What were the biggest challenges in your work at large corporations such as FoamPartner (formerly CONZZETA) and Bucher Industries?
One of the main challenges was bridging the gap between technological and operational requirements and legal necessities. Effective collaboration between all departments is essential to create pragmatic yet well-founded solutions. My approach has always been to support the business rather than hinder it. Legal advice should not be perceived as an obstacle but as a key enabler of business success.
What excites you about interim management, particularly in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)?
Every new assignment brings unique challenges, people, and situations. Interim management means providing immediate, targeted support exactly where it is needed. I particularly appreciate the close connection to the product and decision-makers in SMEs. Quick successes can be achieved because communication channels are short, and decisions can be implemented rapidly.
What advantages does an Interim Legal Manager offer companies, especially in challenging phases?
Companies receive tailored support with minimal onboarding time. As an interim manager, I bring experience and a high level of adaptability. Internal sensitivities take a back seat in these roles—success is the sole focus.
What are the most common legal challenges companies face today?
Companies are increasingly operating globally and must navigate multiple legal jurisdictions. At the same time, regulatory requirements are increasing, particularly in areas such as data protection, ESG reporting, and supply chain regulations. This complexity calls for flexible and cross-disciplinary legal advice.
Trends and developments are shaping the future—how do you see this in the field of interim management and legal services?
The growing regulatory density and globalization demand fast, adaptable, and practical legal solutions. In this environment, interim legal managers are especially valuable because they can quickly respond to new requirements and support companies in sensitive transitional phases.
In which situations do you see the highest demand for interim legal solutions?
Interim solutions are particularly in demand in areas such as compliance management, M&A transactions, and the establishment of robust legal structures, including contract management systems and standardized contract templates.
You recognize the importance of combining legal and technical perspectives. How do you merge these two disciplines?
It is crucial to listen carefully to operational employees—engineers, developers, chemists. Only by understanding the strengths and weaknesses of a product can one develop legally sound yet practical solutions.
In the future, artificial intelligence will play an increasingly important role in legal advisory. However, human expertise will remain essential, particularly when it comes to verifying and finalizing results. AI can streamline processes but should not be feared—it complements rather than replaces human judgment.
What are the most common legal mistakes you see in startups, and how can they be avoided?
Many startups blindly sign contracts to save costs, which can lead to significant issues later on. Even with tight budgets, legal advice should not be overlooked.
In recent years, you have been deeply involved in growing olive trees. Are there any parallels between this and your professional work?
Absolutely. An olive tree takes three to five years to bear its first fruit. Similarly, success in compliance and contract management is not immediately visible but develops over time. Patience and long-term thinking are crucial in both areas.
Cultivating plants requires an in-depth understanding of the conditions they need to thrive. The same applies to legal consulting—proper structures and processes must be established early and continuously maintained to yield lasting results. In both olive cultivation and my legal work, a strategic and sustainable approach is the key to success.
Do you have any advice for companies regarding legal services?
In my experience, it doesn’t take excessive effort to put a company on a legally secure footing in the initial phase. It is essential to have custom contract templates, carefully consider warranty and liability clauses, and use one’s own general terms and conditions (GTCs) in business relationships.
I understand that the topic of GTCs can seem tedious, which is why it is often neglected. However, accepting a business partner’s GTCs without review can be disastrous in the event of a dispute.
If you want to learn more about Interim Legal Management or have specific business needs, schedule a personal consultation with us!
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