The Abstract

Taking the Helm as an Interim Executive: Vanessa Gage, General Counsel, Cedar

Dec 15, 2023

34:02

What does it mean for a lawyer to take on an interim role? Yes, there will be more work and your time will be divided across functions. But you will also get the opportunity to reevaluate why things are the way they are, and make positive improvements for your legal team.

Join Cedar General Counsel Vanessa Gage as she shares advice on how to make the most of an interim executive roles. Vanessa stepped into the role of interim CFO at Cedar following a surprise executive departure—just weeks after she the started at the company. But it wasn’t her first time taking on an interim position. Find out how she was able to tackle the challenges—and rewards—that lay ahead.

This episode, recorded before Cedar filled their CFO role, offers a glimpse into Vanessa’s perspective as she temporarily extends beyond her purview as general counsel.

Read detailed summary: https://www.spotdraft.com/podcast/episode-19

Topics:

Introduction: 00:48

Moving from Deputy General Counsel to Interim GC at Opendoor: 3:03

Advice for lawyers stepping into interim positions: 5:49

Catapulting into a GC role at Cedar and taking on the responsibility of Interim CFO: 11:07

Advice for GCs who find themselves taking on additional interim roles: 17:17

Pushing the business forward without tying your successor’s hands: 21:40

Preparing to step back from your interim role: 27:12

What you are proud of and book recommendations: 31:25

Connect with us:

Vanessa Gage: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vgage/