Cheng Guangdong leads legal transformation by integrating Lexis+ AI and other professional tools into departmental operations, redefining how compliance, contract review, and cross-border risk management are handled. At Nanshan Group, Cheng introduced technology across day-to-day workflows, positioning the team as one of the first adopters in Greater China. AI-enabled research and workflow support helped the legal team meet tight deadlines and navigate complex, multi-jurisdictional requirements.

Cheng applies AI across legal practice and operations to strengthen decision-making and collaboration. Lexis AI supports legal research, internal audits, and compliance monitoring that spans China, the US, Singapore, and the EU. Recognizing early challenges—initial skepticism and data-governance concerns—Cheng drew on a background in privacy and AI governance, including certifications in CIPPE and AIGC, to establish internal protocols, targeted training, and oversight mechanisms for responsible use.

Workflow and compliance have been systematically redesigned. Cheng embedded AI into contract lifecycle management, compliance tracking, and matter management to enable real-time collaboration across jurisdictions and tighter coordination among legal, finance, and operations. Compliance processes for international trade and investment were enhanced to proactively identify risks and maintain audit-ready documentation, elevating legal’s role as a strategic partner in global expansion.

Access and inclusion extend beyond the legal function. Within the organization, AI tools help democratize legal knowledge by making information more accessible to non-legal teams, improving understanding and cross-functional collaboration. Externally, Cheng contributes to public discourse through the LexisNexis blog 栋见法务, mentors young professionals, and supports initiatives that promote inclusive legal innovation.

As a digital transformation champion, Cheng’s vision is a digitally empowered legal team capable of navigating global complexity with agility. The department adopted AI tools, restructured workflows to align with business strategy, and developed governance frameworks and cross-functional training to ensure responsible technology use. The transformation improved efficiency, reduced risk, and positioned the department as a model for innovation in Greater China; Cheng has shared this journey at industry events, including the 2024 LexisNexis Hong Kong summit. Ethical governance remains central: protocols ensure transparency, human oversight, and secure data environments, informed by experience including an IAPP Fellowship, with continued advocacy for responsible AI in legal practice.