/Governance Manager/ Interview Questions
JUNIOR LEVEL

How would you handle a situation where there is a conflict between legal standards and in-house policies?

Governance Manager Interview Questions
How would you handle a situation where there is a conflict between legal standards and in-house policies?

Sample answer to the question

If I were to encounter a situation where there is a conflict between legal standards and in-house policies, I would first carefully review both the legal standards and the in-house policies to fully understand the details and implications of each. Then, I would assess the severity of the conflict and its potential impact on the organization. Next, I would consult with relevant stakeholders, including legal counsel, compliance officers, and senior management, to gather different perspectives and explore possible solutions. Together, we would analyze the risks and benefits of each option and make an informed decision that aligns with both legal requirements and the organization's values. Throughout the process, I would prioritize open and transparent communication, ensuring that all parties involved are well-informed and understand the rationale behind the decision.

A more solid answer

In my previous role as a Compliance Officer at ABC Company, I encountered a situation where there was a conflict between a new legal requirement and our existing in-house policy. To address this, I first conducted a thorough analysis of the legal requirement and our policy to identify the gaps and areas of conflict. I then organized a cross-functional team consisting of representatives from the legal, compliance, and relevant business units. Together, we reviewed the options available to us and conducted a risk assessment for each option. We also sought external legal counsel to ensure we had a comprehensive understanding of the legal implications. After a series of collaborative discussions and careful consideration of the potential risks and benefits, we reached a decision to revise our in-house policy to align with the new legal requirement. Throughout this process, I maintained open and transparent communication with all stakeholders, providing regular updates and soliciting feedback. This approach helped to build trust and ensure that everyone was on board with the final decision.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer provides more specific details about the candidate's past experience in handling a conflict between legal standards and in-house policies. It demonstrates their ability to conduct thorough analysis, lead cross-functional teams, engage external legal counsel, and maintain effective communication throughout the process. The answer could be further improved by discussing the specific outcome or impact of the candidate's actions, as well as highlighting any lessons learned or improvements made as a result of this experience.

An exceptional answer

During my time as a Governance Manager at XYZ Company, I encountered a complex situation where there was a conflict between a new industry-specific regulation and our in-house policies. Recognizing the potential impact on our organization, I took a proactive approach to address this conflict. I initiated a comprehensive review of our in-house policies, working closely with our legal team and external consultants with expertise in the specific regulation. This review involved identifying and documenting the areas of conflict, assessing the risks and implications, and conducting an impact analysis on our operations and stakeholders. Leveraging my strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, I developed a detailed action plan that included revising our policies, establishing new processes, and providing targeted training to our employees. I also worked closely with our communication team to ensure transparent and timely communication about the changes to all relevant stakeholders. This approach not only ensured compliance with the legal standards but also enhanced our organization's integrity and reputation. As a result, we successfully navigated the conflict, avoiding any penalties or legal consequences while maintaining a positive working relationship with external regulatory bodies.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer demonstrates the candidate's comprehensive understanding of the conflict between legal standards and in-house policies and their ability to proactively address complex situations. It showcases their expertise in conducting in-depth reviews, collaborating with legal teams and external consultants, developing action plans, and implementing effective communication strategies. The answer also highlights the candidate's strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, as well as their commitment to maintaining compliance, integrity, and a positive relationship with regulatory bodies. To further improve the answer, the candidate could provide specific examples of the impact or outcomes of their actions, as well as any lessons learned or best practices they derived from this experience.

How to prepare for this question

  • Familiarize yourself with relevant industry-specific regulations and legal standards related to governance.
  • Stay updated on current trends and developments in governance, compliance, and regulatory requirements.
  • Develop strong analytical and problem-solving abilities to effectively assess and navigate conflicts between legal standards and in-house policies.
  • Enhance your communication and reporting skills to facilitate open and transparent communication with stakeholders.
  • Seek opportunities to lead cross-functional teams and collaborate with legal counsel and compliance officers in your current role or through relevant projects.
  • Consider obtaining additional certifications or training in governance, compliance, or related areas to demonstrate your commitment to professional growth and expertise.

What interviewers are evaluating

  • Analytical and problem-solving abilities
  • Effective communication and reporting skills

Related Interview Questions

More questions for Governance Manager interviews