Noëlle works in the Entity Governance & Compliance team (EGC) of Tax & Legal. It's a super busy role where Noëlle can apply her analytical perspective on the world. "In that regard, I'm a true pragmatist who prefers not to spend the whole day writing advice behind a computer."
Assisting with share transfers
The matters I deal with within the EGC team are very diverse, but officially the work we do for clients within the team falls under corporate secretary services. For example, we assist our clients in setting up a new entity, issuing or transferring (new) shares, or organising board meetings. When a notary needs to be involved in a transaction, we act as the binding factor between the notary and the client. We also assist with changes in the management or supervisory board. If, for example, it concerns a structured company, there is much more to it because the works council needs to be involved, and then we delve a little deeper into the articles of association and the law. Last year, I took the lead in getting the billing in order within the team. That's why I'm sometimes called "The Billing-queen." Because the work is quite busy and intensive overall, I like to take it easy in the evenings.
Company Law
One of the most enjoyable aspects of my work is keeping an overview. This way, I know what is going on with a client and what falls within our responsibility. Coordinating it and ensuring that all rules are followed gives me satisfaction. Especially when a client is visibly grateful for it. In that respect, I am a true pragmatist. I am a go-getter and enjoy interacting with the client. The technology we use also helps us keep track of everything. For example, as one of the few consultancy organisations, we have been granted a license for Harvey (an AI platform that automates legal processes based on OpenAI and ChatGPT, editor's note). It will take some getting used to, but Harvey will be incredibly helpful in our work.
In 2018, I completed my master's degree in Company Law. It was a deliberate choice to graduate in Company Law. I already knew back then that I didn't want to become a lawyer. The idea of sitting behind a computer for hours researching case law and writing documents didn't appeal to me at all. Initially, I wanted to start my own company someday, so through this study of Company Law, at least I knew what obligations I would have to fulfil as a future shareholder and director. Now that knowledge comes in handy because I research the same matters for our clients. In addition to doing client work, the partners really listen to your ambitions and give you the opportunity to carry out projects alongside your own role. It is also possible to work abroad for a while if you aspire to do so. Some time ago, I worked as a volunteer at the animal ambulance. I am considering picking it up again. That work really adds value to everything else I do.
'Partners listen to your ambitions and give you room to do projects alongside your own role.'
Noëlle van Steenoven - Legal consultant at PwC