In this cross-posting with Australian Aviation’s sister brand Lawyers Weekly, Virgin Australia’s chief legal and risk officer reflects on the challengers and experiences of working in-house in the aviation sector.

Susan Schneider – who has worked in-house for Virgin Australia since late 2012 – said there is “something special” about being a corporate counsel in the aviation space, and particularly for a brand like Virgin.

Speaking to Lawyers Weekly, Schneider (who currently serves as the airline’s chief legal and risk officer) said that fast-paced and dynamic environment exposes lawyers to a “plethora” of interesting legal issues, including corporate, competition, consumer, privacy, commercial contracting, employment, litigation, WHS, property and a range of regulatory compliance issues.

“The legal team have the privilege of advising on all aspects of the customer journey from marketing, brand and digital experience to check-in, lounge, catering, crew uniforms, inflight entertainment and events. Behind the customer journey keeps us busy as well with fleet growth, engineering, strategic partnerships with international airlines and, of course, our loyalty program Velocity Frequent Flyer,” she said.

“If that isn’t enough, the staff travel benefits are excellent too if you like to travel.

“We have always been lucky to attract top legal talent at Virgin Australia and we have a good-sized legal team of around 16 lawyers so there is a lot of support and learning opportunities internally as well. Seeing your legal advice directly play out in business is a truly rewarding experience for our team.”

Source: Australian aviation news