Topics: Career path, counsel, attorney, ICT, data protection law, IT law, computer science, ZHAW University of Applied Sciences, THOUVENIN.
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Hello Mr. Meier, we are delighted to have you as our interview guest, as no one could better combine Legal Tech. Your professional journey began in computer science and led you to become a successful lawyer after attending the University of Applied Sciences. Could you please describe your academic path, particularly how you became a Counsel?
Marco S. Meier:
Yes, I'd be happy to. Compared to other lawyers, I certainly took a somewhat different path. Before I turned to law, I attended a computer science high school. In computer science high school, you not only receive training as a federally certified computer scientist but also as a business administrator and obtain a vocational baccalaureate diploma. Thanks to this education, I then decided to study "Business Law" at the ZHAW (Zurich University of Applied Sciences). After completing my bachelor's degree at ZHAW, my path to becoming a lawyer followed the usual route: Master's studies in law, internship at a business law firm, and passing the bar exam.
Before deciding to take the next step in my career, I worked for 5 years at a large business law firm in the ICT & Digital team, which prepared me well for the new challenges as Counsel.
What exactly prompted you to pursue a computer science education and then proceed to do a Master's in law? And how relevant do you consider the combination of these two disciplines?
Marco S. Meier:
During my teenage years, I was interested in computer science, which is why during my high school studies, I decided to try the entrance exam for the computer science high school. Fortunately, it worked out. Computer science high school includes the subject of "Law." During one semester, we had to work on a dental liability case. Evaluating that case fascinated me so much that it quickly became clear to me that I was also very enthusiastic about the legal field, especially when applied in a practical context.
This dental liability case did not establish a direct link between computer science and law, but it was the trigger for my law studies. During these studies, the two disciplines were only marginally connected. However, after passing the bar exam, I had the opportunity to combine my two passions. In the professional world, it quickly became evident that the synergy between my education and practical experience was very helpful in advising clients. The computer science education allows me not only to quickly grasp technical aspects but also to understand and communicate with IT professionals.
Combining these skills with the legal knowledge acquired during my law studies, I can develop practical solutions with clients that take into account the technical side. In summary, I consider the combination of these two disciplines as highly relevant and beneficial in my daily work.
The computer science education enables me not only to grasp technical connections quickly but also to understand and speak the language of IT executives. - Marco S. Meier
What prompted you to continue your career at THOUVENIN?
Marco S. Meier:
There are several factors that led me to join THOUVENIN. In my work as a lawyer, it has always been important for me to think entrepreneurially. This entrepreneurial and pragmatic mindset has accompanied me throughout my professional journey. At THOUVENIN, I had the opportunity to take matters into my own hands, further challenge my entrepreneurial spirit, and take the first step towards entrepreneurship. After gaining five years of valuable experience at a major business law firm, I wanted to take the next step.
I met an excellent team at THOUVENIN that offered me the opportunity to establish myself in IT law and data protection law in the long term. Additionally, there was an immediate positive interpersonal connection. So, I wanted to seize this opportunity.
And what does your daily work as Counsel look like today?
Marco S. Meier:
The daily work as Counsel does not differ significantly from that of a employed lawyer.
The main difference, in my opinion, lies in the fact that one is not only working on cases for others but also acquiring and handling one's own cases. This means that one can not only develop professionally but also entrepreneurially.
What topics do you enjoy working on passionately, and is there a case that remains particularly memorable for you today?
Marco S. Meier:
My heart beats, as it should, for IT law, data protection law, and all legal questions related to technology and digitization. This includes not only drafting contracts such as software development, software licensing (e.g., for software-as-a-service models), or outsourcing contracts but also assisting companies in implementing regulatory requirements, such as data protection laws, dealing with cyber incidents, and addressing questions related to new technologies. I also derive great pleasure from representing my clients in technology-related disputes.
Each case is unique in its own way and presents its own special challenges. I particularly remember cases where I had close collaboration with clients and together we were able to develop practical solutions.
As mentioned earlier, you are a recognized expert in IT and data protection law. What do you particularly appreciate about working in these areas of law today?
Marco S. Meier:
What I particularly appreciate is that both areas of law are dynamic and constantly evolving. While it presents a challenge in our daily advisory work, I also find this situation very enriching. The constant development of technologies also influences the law and continually poses new questions for us as legal professionals. This makes my daily work very diverse and exciting.
How does THOUVENIN distinguish itself as an employer and as a law firm in general, in your opinion?
Marco S. Meier:
It goes without saying that we offer high-quality legal services. That is rightfully expected of us by our clients. The real advantage of working with us, however, lies in our focus on our clients' needs and our ability to identify with them in order to understand their expectations, internal processes, and ways of thinking.
We have an agile organization that allows us to work efficiently in dedicated teams and offer tailor-made solutions. We provide high-quality yet pragmatic advice, adopt a practical approach, and value continuity in our client relationships.
As an employer, these values also define us. We don't need to emphasize common practices such as collegiality, a professional work environment, a company culture often highlighted for its non-hierarchical structure, or a modern work environment. All of this is self-evident for us. We work in well-coordinated teams. Although each team member can quickly handle mandates independently, the doors of other team members are always open, fostering exchange on all kinds of topics. For us, the joy in our work and the shared pursuit of our goals are at the forefront. Based on this foundation, we believe that the best results and solutions for our clients can be achieved.
The true advantage of working with us lies in the fact that we prioritize the needs of our clients and identify with them to understand their expectations, internal processes, and way of thinking. - Marco S. Meier
And finally, to conclude: What advice would you give to applicants aspiring for a career at THOUVENIN?
Marco S. Meier:
Our law firm is designed in such a way that we come to the office eagerly every morning and dedicate ourselves wholeheartedly to our clients.
In light of this, my main advice to applicants is to simply be authentic and not pretend to be someone else. Everything else will naturally unfold during the interviews.
We wholeheartedly agree with this perspective, Mr. Meier! Thank you for sharing your career journey with us and providing insight into working at THOUVENIN. We wish you continued success in your areas of expertise!