As the new general counsel of Germany-based Atotech, former Texan Josh McMorrow plans to bring some technology solutions to his new company, and perhaps some artistic risk-taking.

Although only recently announced, McMorrow became vice president and group general counsel June 1. He succeeds former general counsel Gregor Frank, who is retiring this year.

Berlin-based Atotech produces chemicals and equipment for global manufacturers of printed circuit boards and other electronics. McMorrow said it also provides advanced technical solutions for surface-finishing industries, such as for cellphones and automotive vehicles.

“My top priorities include implementing a systematic, data-driven approach that adds value to the business while providing the most timely anticipation of risk to the organization,” he told Corporate Counsel.

He said he also hopes to use legal tech “to make the legal team more effective and to put useful tools into the hands of sales [and] operations that reduce risk while making legal transactions occur more smoothly.”

McMorrow said he oversees a 90-person department that includes a 20-person legal team, plus 70 others who work on health, safety, environment and quality matters—commonly called HSEQ management.

As a member of Atotech's senior management, McMorrow leads the legal team in handling the company's worldwide legal, compliance and intellectual property issues. He reports to CEO Geoff Wild.

“I am delighted that Josh has joined us. He is a seasoned professional bringing over 20 years of legal experience to the table with a wealth of knowledge in global industrial businesses, and will be a tremendous asset to the company,” Wild said in a statement.

McMorrow said, “Building on the company's leading position requires a strong legal foundation, including adherence to the highest standards with regard to compliance, safety, and quality.”

Prior to joining Atotech, he served as vice president, chief commercial counsel and global head of litigation at Weatherford International's global headquarters near Zurich.

McMorrow also has worked as general counsel of the engineering and construction solutions division of Air Liquide, and at PSC, an industrial and environmental services company based in Houston.

He began his career as a trial attorney with Bracewell & Patterson, now Bracewell, in Houston, after graduating from the University of Texas Law School.

The top of his Twitter page carries this quote, often attributed to Pablo Picasso: “Learn the rules like a pro, so you can break them like an artist.”

McMorrow explained, “That quote has always stuck with me. It's more of a life philosophy, but it certainly applies to my role as a general counsel.”