Meet Sara, In-House Legal Counsel and Commercial Manager at Interocean Marine Services. Working in a dual role, Sara provides an insight to her experience and day-to-day responsibilities in a recent Q&A…
> How long have you been part of the Interocean Marine Services team, and what initially attracted you to the company?
I joined Interocean in October 2024 and was immediately drawn to the company’s dynamic and collaborative culture. The opportunity to combine my legal expertise with commercial strategy in a growing and dynamic company made it a natural fit. Interocean’s reputation for innovation and its expanding global footprint were also key factors in my decision.
> Your role spans both legal counsel and commercial management – can you describe how you balance these responsibilities and what a typical day looks like?
Balancing legal and commercial responsibilities requires a structured yet flexible approach. A typical day might involve reviewing and negotiating contracts, advising on compliance matters, and supporting strategic business decisions as well as supporting on current bids and tenders. I work closely with internal stakeholders across departments to ensure legal integrity aligns with commercial objectives, often switching between detailed legal analysis and broader business planning.
> How has your background in commercial and corporate law helped you support Interocean’s operational needs and drive its commercial objectives?
My legal background—spanning private practice and in-house roles in both commercial and regulatory roles —has equipped me with a strong foundation in contract negotiation, risk management, and corporate governance. This experience allows me to anticipate potential legal challenges while supporting Interocean’s commercial ambitions. Whether advising on joint ventures, international expansion, or operational contracts, I aim to provide pragmatic, business-focused, solutions based on legal guidance and support.
> As Interocean expands and enters new international markets such as the Middle East, how do you stay on top of evolving legal and compliance requirements?
I stay informed through a combination of continuous professional development, legal updates, and collaboration with external counsel in relevant jurisdictions. My previous roles have involved supporting operations across Europe, Africa, Australasia and the Middle East, so I’m familiar with navigating diverse regulatory landscapes. I also maintain strong networks within the legal community to ensure we remain compliant and commercially agile.
> What do you enjoy most about working at Interocean?
The people. Interocean fosters a culture of mutual respect, innovation, and shared purpose. I enjoy the variety in my role and the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to both legal and commercial outcomes. It’s rewarding to be part of a team that values integrity and is committed to delivering excellence.
> If you were describe Interocean in three words, what would they be?
Collaborative. Forward-thinking. Resilient.
> Tell us a bit about life outside of Interocean.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family and exploring the outdoors with my dog, Alfie (a six year old Patterdale Terrier). I also love yoga and am a qualified yoga teacher. When time allows, I enjoy cooking, reading and gardening and am a late, but enthusiastic convert, to running having run my first 5k earlier this year at Balmoral.