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Nicola McCarthy
Senior Legal Counsel - Global IP & Marketing, at Chivas Brothers, Pernod Ricard
Professional Background
Nicola McCarthy is an accomplished Senior Legal Counsel at Chivas Brothers, a prestigious entity within the Pernod Ricard portfolio, renowned as one of the world’s foremost co-leaders in wines and spirits. In her current role, Nicola reports directly to the General Counsel of Chivas, where she successfully oversees the enforcement of intellectual property (IP) on a global scale. Her responsibilities include adeptly managing IP infringements, action against lookalikes, as well as following through on legal measures against counterfeit products in various markets around the world.
Nicola's role extends beyond IP enforcement; she also serves as a vital legal advisor to the global marketing, communication and innovation teams at Chivas. In this capacity, she provides comprehensive legal guidance on new product development and global marketing initiatives. Additionally, Nicola excels in drafting a wide variety of IP and commercial contracts, which include licenses, sponsorship agreements for sports and music events, image rights arrangements, and co-existence agreements. Her expertise also encompasses critical areas such as data protection, anti-bribery laws, and corporate social responsibility (CSR), ensuring compliance while fostering brand innovation.
Before her tenure at Chivas Brothers, Nicola was an integral member of the Intellectual Property team at Simpson Grierson, where she spent three years honing her skills across both contentious and non-contentious IP matters, as well as general commercial contracts related to IP. This experience laid the groundwork for her current achievements and deep understanding of the IP landscape, making her a sought-after expert in her field.
Education and Achievements
Nicola’s educational foundation is robust and multifaceted. She holds a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) and a Bachelor of Arts (BA) with a dual focus on French and Criminology, which she completed at the esteemed Victoria University of Wellington. This diverse educational background equipped her with a unique blend of legal acumen and cultural insights, allowing her to navigate the complexities of international law and business.
Nicola is not only recognized for her professional expertise but is also celebrated for her leadership and public speaking capabilities. One noteworthy achievement includes her role as a speaker in the Global Business plenary session at One Young World 2013, held in Johannesburg. This prestigious conference brings together global social and business leaders such as Kofi Annan, Richard Branson, and Bob Geldof, showcasing Nicola’s commitment to being an influential voice within the business community.
Furthermore, Nicola is a founding member of Pernod Ricard's Youth Action Council. This initiative aimed to channel the innovative ideas and strategic concerns of younger employees to the upper echelons of management, being personally sponsored by the CEO, Alexandre Ricard. Nicola's passion for mentorship and advocacy for young professionals highlights her dedication to fostering a progressive corporate culture focused on inclusivity and forward-thinking.
Achievements
- Legal Leadership: As Senior Legal Counsel at Chivas Brothers, Nicola stands out for her pivotal role in global IP enforcement, demonstrating her leadership in navigating the complexities of intellectual property law within the spirits industry.
- Global Engagement: Nicola's participation as a speaker at One Young World 2013 reaffirms her status as a leader in international business dialogues, providing a valuable voice on global social issues.
- Youth Advocacy: Her involvement in establishing Pernod Ricard’s Youth Action Council illustrates her proactive approach to leadership and her commitment to empowering younger generations in the corporate realm.
Overall, Nicola McCarthy's extensive background in legal counsel, particularly within the realms of intellectual property and commercial law, underscores her as an invaluable asset at Chivas Brothers and the wider Pernod Ricard group. Her educational credentials from Victoria University of Wellington, coupled with her dynamic professional trajectory and her passion for mentorship and innovation, paint a picture of a dedicated legal professional poised for continued success in the world of global business.
