As the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of a business, your legal responsibility is to act in the interest of advancing the company’s goals and objectives. The COO must ensure that all organisation practices comply with applicable laws and regulations, from tax and payroll policies to advertising, contracts and employee safety. This requires knowledge and understanding of a broad range of legislative frameworks, such as intellectual property rights, employment regulations, labour standards, corporate governance structures and general commercial law. Additionally, the COO has an obligation to promote ethical behaviour within the organisation – meaning setting an example for other employees by operating in line with set values and standards. It is also their duty to observe conflicts of interest, avoid bribery, and protect confidential information and trade secrets. In short, the COO acts as a guardian of better business decisions and overall compliance.