The Strategic Role of In-House Counsel in International Arbitration

*Please note this is an in-person event only and will not be available by video.

CPR Institute and the CPR European Advisory Board are proud to present the following dispute resolution program:

The Strategic Role of In-House Counsel in International Arbitration

Date: Tuesday, October 7, 2025

Time: 5:30 - 7:30 pm, networking reception until 8:30 pm

Host:  Freshfields, 9 Av. de Messine, 75008 Paris, France

Welcome remarks by:

• Serena Lee (CPR Institute)
• Torsten Bartsch (formerly with Caterpillar) and Vanessa Alarcon Duvanel (King & Spalding), Co-Chairs of CPR Institute's European Advisory Board 

Speaking Panel, moderated by Alexandra van der Meulen (Freshfields)

• Alina Leoveanu (Atos)
• Karl Hennessee (Airbus)
• Sophie Grémaud (Sotheby's)
• Elena Gutiérrez García de Cortázar (Independent Arbitrator & Consultant)

Program Description:

The role of in-house counsel is vital to the successful resolution of international arbitration disputes. The European Advisory Board of CPR is hosting a lively discussion on the strategic contributions and different approaches that in-house counsel bring to the management of international arbitration—from the initial decision to commence proceedings, to the selection of arbitrators, management of procedural choices, risk mitigation steps, and the alignment of dispute resolution with broader business objectives.

Through the sharing of experiences, practical insights, and real-world case studies, participants will gain insight into:

• The internal steps taken by in-house counsel from the onset of a dispute through its conclusion—whether by arbitration or settlement
• Strategic decision-making in the early stages of arbitration and throughout the proceedings
• Managing effective relationships with external counsel
• The impact of in-house counsel’s involvement and visibility on the outcome of proceedings
• Best practices for cost control, efficiency, and risk management
• The influence of ESG considerations, regulatory developments, and cross-border dynamics on arbitration strategy

Bringing together experienced in-house counsel, arbitration practitioners, arbitrators, and institutional representatives, this interactive program offers a unique opportunity to share perspectives, challenges, and innovative approaches.  

Networking reception to follow.

Opening Remarks:

• Host: Alexandra van der Meulen, Freshfields
• Presenting Organization: Knar Nahikian, CPR Institute
• CPR European Advisory Board Co-Chairs: Torsten Bartsch and Vanessa Alarcon Duvanel

Panel Discussion

Q&A: Time will be reserved to take audience questions for an interactive discussion.

Networking Reception. Please join us after the program for a cocktail reception to network with speakers and fellow attendees!

This in-person event is free and open to the public; pre-registration is required.

For assistance with registration, please email Micah Seigel at mseigel@cpradr.org.