Caroline Belk

About Caroline Belk

I thrive in technology-heavy, highly regulated, challenging environments and perform my best under pressure. Known for my unflappable demeanor, I navigate through stressful negotiations with an optimal balance of tenacity and diplomacy to close deals. With an ability to identify priorities, manage risk, and inspire teams, I have a verifiable history of consistently delivering results for global market leaders.Examples include:LEGAL OPERATIONS: Currently as primary counsel for US Leadership and US Invisalign business at Align Technology, I overhauled legal support for temporary pricing promotions by redefining roles to improve communication with stakeholders. I also provided guidelines to reduce risk and improve operations and workflow.BUSINESS GROWTH: At Cisco Systems, I navigated complex foreign laws to implement risk and governance strategies to pave the way for the company’s expansion into Nigeria and South America. I also led negotiations to close a $75M software agreement at risk of failure over risk transfer issues.FACILITIES EXPANSION: With Bayer Cropscience, I collaborated on strategy with business partners and negotiated technically complex contracts to mobilize a new chemical manufacturing facility for the company’s flagship product. COMPLEX LITIGATION STRATEGY: In a breach of contract case on behalf of Bayer, I achieved a $17.5M+ jury verdict against a supplier based on the implied obligation of good faith and fair dealing. Although the contract clearly permitted limitless price increases, the jury found the supplier liable for price gouging.TEAM LEADERSHIP: With Align, I additionally redefined the role of a frustrated direct report who was confused about her responsibilities. Upon evaluating the team needs and the employee’s strengths, I rewrote her job description. She is now a productive and satisfied member of the team who earned the highest rating of her six-year tenure.Private Practice to In-House: I began my career with a prominent local law firm where, upon nearly attaining my goal of making partner, I was recruited in-house by Bayer Cropscience. I soon found that I enjoyed the consistent teamwork dedicated to a single client much more than the project-based teamwork of a law firm. I have developed an entrepreneurial and strategic mindset that allows me to focus on the big picture of my company’s goals while also minding the details along the way. Continued Leadership Growth: I look forward to continuing my professional growth as a legal and business leader who makes tangible contributions as part of the executive team.

Experience

1. Sr Director, Managing Counsel

   Align Technology

   Jul 2023 — Present · Morrisville, NC, US

Education

• Duke University

  AB, Psychology, Women's Studies

  1991 — 1995

• Duke University School of Law

  JD, Law

  2001 — 2004

Skills

• Appeals
• Commercial Litigation
• Administrative
• Arbitration
• Legal Writing
• Litigation
• Osha
• Trials
• Legal Research
• Mediation
• Civil Litigation
• Courts
• Mergers & Acquisitions
• Environmental Law