Corporate and Commercial Law plays a pivotal role in the modern business landscape, serving as the legal backbone that governs transactions, mergers, and international dealings. An industry expert who has made significant contributions to the realm of Corporate and Commercial Law is Katarina Kresal, the Managing Partner at Law Firm Senica & Partners. With a focus on M&A and international transactions, Katarina is renowned both nationally and internationally for her expertise in alternative dispute resolution. Her extensive knowledge spans various practice areas, including Commercial and Corporate Law, bolstered by her experience as a General Legal Counsel, and her role as the Founder and President of the European Centre for Dispute Resolution.

This comprehensive understanding of business aspects enables her to provide clients with high-quality advice, especially in the execution of complex transactions. Katarina's influence extends beyond her practice, as she has been a vital part of organizations such as the Mediterranean Women Mediators Network (MWMN) and arbiter at Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Lausanne, and, more recently, as a Member of Andersen Global European Board and Andersen Global Leadership Committee since 2021, and Andersen Global Management Committee since 2023. Her expertise and leadership continue to empower and shape the Corporate and Commercial Law sector. Let's read more.

What prompted your interest in the field of law, and could you share your extensive professional journey developed over the years?

Law is a pervasive force that shapes society, politics, and economics, offering a multitude of specialized paths. This versatile appeal drove my interest and led me to pursue a career in law. During my legal education, I gravitated towards corporate-commercial law, initially aiming to become a judge. After completing a courtroom traineeship and passing the bar exam, I transitioned into legal advising at a state-owned Asset Management Company and later headed the Legal Department at a prominent international Telecommunication company.

Collaboration with Miro Senica, the Managing Partner of Senica & Partners, prompted a pivotal career shift, where I took on the role of Head of the Corporate & Commercial Department. Subsequently, I ventured into politics, becoming Slovenia’s first female President of the Parliamentary Party and later serving as Slovenia's first female Minister of Interior. Following my political tenure, I established a successful alternative dispute resolution center specializing in arbitration and media­tion, extending my involvement internationally. This led me to the role of Managing Partner at Senica & Partners, where in 2019, our firm joined Andersen Global, marking a transition from a traditional law firm to a comprehen­sive business advisory firm. Within Andersen Global, I oversee the CEE Subregion and play a vital role in the European and Global Management Committee.

Could you share some insights into the important business and leadership lessons you've gained over the course of your career?

Achieving success isn't a matter of finding a quick route; it's built upon a solid foundation of hard work and unwavering commitment. However, true advancement emerges from the ability to innovate, forecast trends, and inspire others to join your journey. Effective lead­ership necessitates a profound belief in and passion for your work. When you can persuade individuals to embrace your vision as their own, they become dedicat­ed followers, and together, you can reach your objec­tives. A leader's authority is derived from their ideas and actions, not merely from their position or title.

In your perspective, what standout achievements have you experienced thus far in your professional journey?

Given the diversity of roles I've occupied over my career, highlighting a single achievement is a formidable task. Nonetheless, there are several significant successes that have left an enduring impact. During my tenure as the Minister of Interior, I effectively addressed a profound human rights violation, marking a historic milestone in our nation's history—an undertaking no previous min­ister had dared to tackle. This achievement is not only a memorable personal milestone but also an indelible part of Slovenia's history.

"Achieving success isn't a matter of finding a quick route; it's built upon a solid foundation of hard work & unwavering commitment"

Another remarkable feat was the establishment of a highly regarded institution in the field of alternative dispute resolution (ADR), extending its reputation not only within Slovenia but also across Europe and be­yond. However, viewed through the lens of my current role as the Managing Partner, the most pivotal endeavor at Senica & Partners has been the transformation from a traditional local law firm into a globally recognized full-service advisory firm. This transformation was cat­alyzed by our decision to join Andersen Global, which prompted a comprehensive overhaul of our services and the assembly of a team of professionals capable of delivering a wide spectrum of tax and advisory services to clients. After three years of rigorous reorganization and talent acquisition, we solidified our strategy by redefining Senica & Partners' identity and launching its subsidiary, Andersen Advisory, initially in Slovenia and later, a year afterward, in Serbia.

In your view, what characterizes you as a leader, and what principles have contributed to your success?

I am known for instilling a sense of curiosity and per­sonal growth in people, not only in their professional capacities but as individuals. I infuse enthusiasm and zeal into the workplace environment. While I expect results, I also stand ready to provide assistance, and support, and set an example through my actions. Over the course of my career, I've cultivated the ability to think innovatively and question conventional solutions, all the while maintaining a strong penchant for orga­nization and adherence to structured processes. This approach facilitates oversight and the swift identifi­cation of issues. Lastly, regardless of the task at hand, I remain steadfast in upholding the primary lesson imparted to me by Miro Senica when I joined the firm: 'We are professionals, and we approach our work with unwavering commitment; anything less is considered amateurish’.

Katarina Kresal, Managing Partner, Law Firm Senica & Partners

Katarina Kresal is an expert in Corporate and Commercial Law, specializing in M&A, international transactions, and alternative dispute resolution. With extensive experience as a General Legal Counsel and in leadership roles, she offers clients invaluable insights into complex business projects.