Vodafone: Keeping the lines open

Vodafone was responsible for making the UK’s first mobile phone call on January 1, 1985, on its newly-launched network.

The multinational telecommunications conglomerate now has 531.9 million mobile customers, making it the largest international mobile operator in the world.

The activities of a global company ensure a varied workload for its IP arm, and Vodafone’s includes Natasza Shilling, senior legal counsel, who has worked in the team for nearly three years.

Shilling explains that internal communication is key to ensuring continued investment in brand protection. At Vodafone, the IP team holds “visual and exciting” monthly presentations to demonstrate how it has protected the brand and resolved any challenges.

“It’s important to be proactive and do that regularly, rather than waiting for someone to ask: what does brand legal do?” she says.