In the Notes to My (Legal) Self podcast episode, Robert Esposito discusses his career transition from an IP litigator to an in-house product counsel at Hillspire. The episode explores how legal professionals can launch a product counsel role in tech, and why the position is so important today.
Esposito describes designing legal frameworks from scratch and working closely with engineering and marketing teams. He explains how legal advice must be tailored to fast-moving industries like social media, philanthropy, and digital entertainment.
Importantly, launching a product counsel role isn’t just about legal risk. It’s about becoming a trusted legal partner who enables innovation.
Throughout the conversation, Esposito emphasizes the mindset needed for success. For example, product counsel must stay curious, adapt quickly, and work across departments. These traits are essential for anyone looking to launch a product counsel role in today’s tech landscape.
Three Learning Outcomes:
- Core Functions of a Product Counsel: Understand the diverse responsibilities of product counsels. These include designing legal frameworks and partnering closely with engineering and marketing teams.
- Transitioning from Litigation to In-House: Gain insights into the shift from traditional litigation roles to dynamic, in-house product-focused positions. Learn about the challenges involved in this transition.
- Industry-Specific Legal Challenges: Explore how legal strategies vary across sectors like social media, philanthropy, and digital entertainment, and why adaptability is key to success.
Ready to learn more about how to launch a product counsel role?
For an in-dept look, watch the full episode on YouTube, Notes to My (Legal) Self Season 4, Episode 13: How to Launch a Product Counsel Role (ft. Robert Esposito).
