Banner artwork by ChonnieArtwork / Shutterstock.com
Doris Chen is vice president legal APAC, China, and India at dsm-firmenich.
⭕ Please tell us a little about your company and your role there.
dsm-firmenich is one of the largest MNCs in the world that is specialized in taste, fragrance, wellness, beauty, and nutrition products. I am the head of legal for APAC, China, and India, heading a team of 14 lawyers.
⭕ What was your career path?
I started my career as a legal associate in Beiten Burkhardt in 2006. In 2017, I joined Firmenich as an in-house legal counsel and was relocated to Singapore in 2019. I have won a number of third party recognitions including without limitation Legal500 GC Green Power List, Legal500 SE Asia Legal Team, Lexology Employment In-house Counsel, and have been shorted twice as ALB SE Awards Women Lawyer 2023. Growing up in China, I have defied gender norms in a patriarchal environment and attained extraordinary achievements through diligence and perseverance. Hence, I am an advocate of women empowerment and gender equality.
⭕ How long have you been a member of ACC and what do you like best about ACC Singapore?
I've been a member since three years ago. What I like is its dedication to serve the in-house community and the diversity and inclusiveness it provides. The sponsors that have been carefully selected by ACC have been able to equip us with the best resources. The events it holds are also so relevant to our day to day.
⭕ What are your top tips for being regarded as a true business partner as an in-house lawyer?
Be proactive and a solution provider. Business acumen is the key for all in-house lawyers.
Disclaimer: The information in any resource in this website should not be construed as legal advice or as a legal opinion on specific facts, and should not be considered representing the views of its authors, its sponsors, and/or ACC. These resources are not intended as a definitive statement on the subject addressed. Rather, they are intended to serve as a tool providing practical guidance and references for the busy in-house practitioner and other readers.
