Super Lawyer

Category: Alternative Careers

  • “The confidence that I gained as a lawyer, coupled with a structured and organized approach has shaped me as an entrepreneur today.” – Shruti Gupta, Independent Law Practitioner and Hospitality Entrepreneur.

    “The confidence that I gained as a lawyer, coupled with a structured and organized approach has shaped me as an entrepreneur today.” – Shruti Gupta, Independent Law Practitioner and Hospitality Entrepreneur.

    This interview has been published by Anshi Mudgal and The SuperLawyer Team

    Having built an impressive legal career spanning over seven years, and continuing your practice today while also excelling as a hospitality entrepreneur, what first inspired you to pursue a career in law?

    I was the kid who always sought logic for everything and anything and asked a zillion questions. Growing up, the world of contracts, negotiation and consequences attracted me and I was drawn to the idea of transactions and their intricacies and would pester my father who is a businessman to know more about how things worked.

    I grew up in a relatively conservative city of Kanpur in Uttar Pradesh, where females did not have it easy and small things had to be bargained and negotiated.  All of this led me to admire people who could negotiate, resolve disputes with clear communication and well-reasoned logic. This also drew me to  law as a field where I could advocate for others and use my communication skills to bring about meaningful change.

    When I pursued higher education at Shri Ram College of Commerce and later at Campus Law Centre from where I pursued my LLB, I got fascinated with litigation. The fast paced dynamism and the strategy of litigation drew me in and I got hooked. I was very fortunate to have a fabulous mentor in my senior, Mr. Gaurav Pachnanda, Senior Advocate and Barrister at Fountain Court Chambers. Working with him introduced me to complex commercial arbitrations and was one of the best foundations that someone can ask for. My academic journey, which eventually took me to Cambridge University for my Master of Law, only deepened that conviction.

    You began your professional journey practicing before some of the highest courts and tribunals in India before transitioning into hospitality entrepreneurship. What motivated this shift, and how did your legal acumen prepare you for the challenges of running and expanding a business?

    After practising litigation full-time for several years, during the pandemic I got an opportunity and I made an unconventional road into the world of hospitality. At the time when the world was dealing with covid and everything underwent lockdown, one of our hotel’s in Dehradun was undergoing renovation. Being the foodie that we both are, we, (Abhishek, my husband and co-founder of the restaurants) decided to start a small pizzeria called Coco Osteria to introduce Neapolitan pizzas to Dehradun in a space that vibed with us. We started small, more like a passion project than a commercial venture, and in a short span of time, Coco took off and how.

    The hospitality business is fast paced every day is a new challenge. It requires one to be dynamic in decision making, in pivoting and adapting to the changing environment. The skills and mindset I honed through law like critical thinking, problem-solving, and resilience in high-pressure situations will always be in my DNA and they have proved invaluable in building and growing my restaurants.

    Your work in litigation, arbitration, and corporate advisory has honed skills in analysis, negotiation, and risk management. How have these shaped your approach to strategic business decisions and navigating compliance, contracts, and negotiations?

    My background in litigation and arbitration has taught me how to assess risks and outcomes before taking any business decisions ensuring that all business decisions at LP Hotels, Coco Osteria, or Monsoon are backed by clarity and are not left to chance.

    My legal acumen has taught me to have a structured yet flexible approach to decision-making in hospitality. All skills come in handy and help me in the hospitality industry whether it is navigating the compliances and regulatory frameworks or negotiating leases or vendor partnerships or dealing with my team.

    The confidence that one gains as a litigation lawyer is unparalleled. We are constantly juggling between different contracts and industries and have to be adept at keeping up with whatever is handed out to us. The confidence that I gained as a lawyer, coupled with a structured and organized approach has shaped me as an entrepreneur today. All of this helps to make decisions that balance innovation and sound business policies.

    Based on your experience, what are some of the most common legal pitfalls first-time entrepreneurs overlook, and how can they proactively avoid them?

    One of the most common legal pitfalls entrepreneurs (whether first timers or experienced) face is entering into business arrangements without formal, well-drafted contracts. Many rely on verbal agreements or generic templates, which can lead to disputes over responsibilities, revenue sharing, or exit rights.

    Another overlooked area that entrepreneurs often overlook is protection of intellectual property whether it is trademarks, logos, or proprietary content.  Another gap I often come across is that of compliance with local regulations  from licenses to labour laws. This I have realized is a big issue especially in industries like hospitality or F&B, where health and safety standards are stringent.

    To avoid these, I recommend that all entrepreneurs should invest early in legal groundwork. They need to get the basic things in place, nothing fancy. They should ensure that all contracts are vetted, register necessary IP’s, and get help to ensure compliance with regulatory frameworks. Even if budgets are tight, seeking basic legal advice at the outset saves significant costs and risks later. I believe that maintaining proper documentation is equally important so that there are no issues later when the company grows.

    In leading operations, branding, and strategic development, how does your legal background influence your leadership style and problem-solving approach?

    My legal background has a profound impact on my leadership style and my approach to decision making. I am thorough more often than not, I am able to anticipate problems and issues before they materialize which gives me an edge in dealing with them.

    Also, true to my legal profession, my leadership style is proactive, detail-oriented, and solution-driven. One thing that I learnt through my legal career was to listen and to be empathetic. This is one of the biggest advantages that I may have learnt because hearing out people is crucial to building relationships and solving issues. A lot in this hospitality industry is driven through relationships, with guests, partners, and teams and the ability to balance firmness with empathy has been invaluable.

    I encourage my team to think critically, ask questions, and to become creative in finding solutions. Ultimately, my legal background gives me the confidence to take bold decisions because they are thought out and calculated decisions.

    Having studied at globally reputed institutions like the University of Cambridge and Stanford Graduate School of Business, how have these experiences broadened your perspective on integrating legal thinking into entrepreneurial growth?

    My time at University of Cambridge and with the Seed Programme of  Stanford Graduate School of Business has truly been transformative, not just academically but also in shaping how I think.

    At Cambridge, the rigorous legal training gave me a broader perspective and taught me to analyze issues and to look at both risks and opportunities within the framework of the law, and to value precision in reasoning. Stanford, on the other hand, offered a completely different lens, one that emphasized innovation, design thinking, and growth-oriented leadership. The programme at Stanford helped me understand business and how to chase growth in business. It taught me that calculated risks are crucial for success in business.

    Together, my academic pursuits have given me a unique blend of these perspectives that  helps me to approach hospitality entrepreneurship with both caution and creativity. I can safeguard the business legally while also pushing boundaries to introduce novel concepts like Monsoon’s regional food journey or Coco Osteria’s award-winning dining experience.

    It is these learnings that led me to introduce Neapolitan pizza’s to Dehradun through Coco Osteria, to launch its first ever craft cocktail bar called CinCin, to introduce a regional Indian restaurant that brings together a menu inspired by our travels across India in Monsoon or to start the Dehradun Food Literature Festival, that ignited meaningful conversations about food, culture, and storytelling, reinforcing the need to preserve and celebrate India’s diverse culinary heritage.

    In my experience, my academic experiences reinforce my belief that law and entrepreneurship are not at odds, in fact they complement each other. Legal thinking provides structure and resilience, while entrepreneurial learning fosters vision and adaptability. Bringing the two together has been central to how I build and grow ventures in a way that is both sustainable and forward-looking.

    In a constantly evolving business landscape with shifting regulations and compliance requirements, how do you ensure you remain informed, adaptable, and ahead of the curve?

    On the legal side, I regularly track regulatory updates, attend professional workshops, and rely on peer networks to interpret how new laws might impact operations. In hospitality, adaptability is equally critical so I work closely with consultants and subject-matter experts to stay compliant while also ensuring innovation is not stifled.

    In this dynamic world and ever evolving hospitality industry, I make it a point to stay ahead through constant learning and innovation. For example, after introducing Coco Osteria, we (Abhishek and I) travelled to Italy and took classes to learn the art of pizza and pasta making. We also ensure that our team attends professional workshops regularly to keep up with the industry. Apart from this, I make it a point to keep myself informed through constant engagement with industry networks.

    We keep and encourage a positive and agile mindset at work. Our team has also imbibed the same and this helps us be proactive with changing dynamics and to align our work model.

    Looking back, what advice would you give to lawyers considering a transition into entrepreneurship or leadership roles in business?

    To any lawyer considering entrepreneurship, I would say while your acumen and ability to analyze, negotiate, and anticipate risks will be your biggest advantage, be open to new learnings. Business, unlike law, requires a certain risk taking ability, to take quick decisions and to adapt when things don’t go as planned.  

    My advice would be to be willing to “unlearn” bits. As an entrepreneur you have to be quick and not over analyse all decisions. A lot of decisions that you make as an entrepreneur are driven by intuition and practicalities rather than what seems logical.

    As lawyers, we are very independent but to grow in business, one has to have a good team and has to rely on the power of collaboration so it is important to build a good team.

    Entrepreneurship comes with its own challenges that one doesn’t encounter as a lawyer, so it is important to keep grounded and to focus on what is important.

    How do you balance the demands of your legal practice with your entrepreneurial ventures, and what do you gather from it on maintaining work-life harmony?

    Balancing a legal practice with entrepreneurial ventures has certainly been one of the most challenging yet rewarding aspects of my career. Law teaches discipline, structured thinking, and the ability to compartmentalize, and these very skills I have carried forward into managing hospitality operations. I rely on clear prioritization: when I’m working on a case, my focus is entirely on the matter at hand, and when I’m at the restaurant or with my team, I’m fully immersed in the business. I am truly present in whatever task I am involved with.

    This dual role has also taught me the importance of delegation and as I have mentioned previously on building strong teams. Neither law nor hospitality is a solo pursuit, and having people I can trust allows me to shift roles without feeling overstretched. On a personal level, I’ve learned that balance doesn’t mean dividing time equally every day, but ensuring that over the long run, each aspect of my professional and personal life receives the attention it deserves.

    I derive joy from the intellectual rigor of my law practice as well as from the creatively driven world of hospitality. I truly believe that when a career is driven by passion and when one enjoys what they are pursuing, it does not feel like a chore or a burden.  While I still practice law, I find the same sense of purpose and challenge in hospitality, making both careers deeply fulfilling in different yet complementary ways.

    Get in touch with Shruti Gupta –

  • “Success lies in understanding legal principles while addressing business complexities effectively.” – Rabindra Purohit, Vice President Legal, Compliance & Company Secretary at DFPCL.

    “Success lies in understanding legal principles while addressing business complexities effectively.” – Rabindra Purohit, Vice President Legal, Compliance & Company Secretary at DFPCL.

    This interview has been published by Anshi Mudgal and The SuperLawyer Team

    What pivotal moments influenced your decision to become a lawyer and CS, and how did your early experiences of life shape your career path?

    The roots of this inspiring journey trace back to a tiny village in Odisha, nestled about 200 kilometres from Bhubaneswar. It was a place of simplicity and resilience, where school was held beneath the open sky, under the shade of a sprawling tree. When the rains came, they did not just wash the earth but also brought unexpected holidays, for there was no roof to shield the lessons. 

    Saturdays were special—they were days of collective effort and community spirit. The boys fetched water from nearby tanks, while the girls prepared the schoolyard, smoothing the earth with cow dung collected from the village. By Monday, the grounds were dry and ready to welcome another week of learning.

    In this setting, where challenges were woven into the fabric of daily life, a young dreamer’s path began to take shape. The journey from studying under a tree to standing in corporate boardrooms reflects a life sculpted by grit and determination, rooted deeply in those formative experiences.

    What inspired your decision to become a lawyer and CS, especially given your humble background? How did this journey shape your growth and influence those around you?

    From a small village in Odisha to a disciplined boarding school, the journey was a test of resilience and determination. Limited to education until class seven in the village, the young dreamer moved to a nearby town, adapting to the rigor of boarding school life—waking at 4 a.m., managing chores like grocery shopping, and balancing academics. These experiences instilled independence and discipline.

    Graduation brought a pivotal realization—the need to break free from constraints through education. This drive led to the bold decision of pursuing both company secretaryship and law simultaneously, an extraordinary feat accomplished with unwavering focus. Success transformed my life, taking me from humble beginnings to corporate boardrooms—a true testament to grit and ambition.

    How has your transition from independent CS practice to working at a law firm to serving as an in-house counsel shaped your career? What do you enjoy most about your role?

    My journey has been one of exploration and growth, shaped by diverse experiences across India. After completing my early education in Odisha, I moved to Chennai for my CS and later to Delhi to finish the course. These transitions exposed me to India’s rich diversity and built adaptability.

    I began as an independent practitioner CS in Delhi, handling IPOs, mergers, and corporate actions. This entrepreneurial phase was rewarding, but I sought to expand my horizons. Moving into corporate law firms, I leveraged my CS expertise to deliver client-centric solutions, which set me apart.

    My transition to in-house counsel began at Bharti Delmonte, working under inspiring mentors and gaining corporate strategy insights. Joining Vodafone during its historic acquisition of Hutchison was transformative, with a decade spent managing complex litigations, arbitrations, and large-scale challenges in telecom.

    then at NIVEA, FMCG leading legal functions for a global brand has been a dynamic and fulfilling chapter. Each role has enriched my perspective, blending entrepreneurial spirit, legal acumen, and strategic leadership.

    After two decades of experience working with major corporations, what significant changes have you observed in corporate legal practices, particularly in compliance frameworks and dispute resolution mechanisms?

    Over two decades, I’ve witnessed significant shifts in corporate legal practice, especially in compliance and dispute resolution. Companies like Vodafone demonstrated the importance of strong ethical foundations and robust compliance frameworks, aligning processes with a clear vision. Their dedication to excellence was reflected in hiring outstanding professionals and anticipating challenges years ahead.

    Recently, advancements in technology have streamlined compliance and dispute resolution mechanisms, improving transparency and efficiency. Coupled with a culture of ethics and governance, these developments have transformed the legal landscape. The combination of visionary leadership, structured policies, and exceptional talent remains the driving force behind corporate success today.

    How do global corporations, especially multinationals, approach dispute resolution differently?

    Litigation would always be the last resort for MNCs. It disrupts relationships and business continuity, so companies focus on resolving disputes amicably be it with governments, vendors, suppliers, or customers. 

    Multinationals emphasize customer-centric solutions. For instance, customer satisfaction was paramount. If a customer faced network issues, we responded with apologies or compensations rather than assigning blame. This empathy-first approach reflects their understanding that business thrives on happy customers.

    Globally, companies also prioritize efficient mechanisms like mediation and arbitration, ensuring conflicts are resolved swiftly while preserving relationships.

    Multinationals succeed not because of their global stature but because they create trusted brands, deliver value, and ensure compliance. It’s this forward-thinking, customer-first philosophy that drives their success with their leadership, empathy, and processes.

    How do you handle intellectual property and brand protection for a Global brand you served?

    Intellectual property is vital for innovation, identity and brand longevity, it begins with securing patents, trademarks, trade dress, and designs to convert creativity into valuable assets. Innovation drives product development, and legal measures ensure every aspect—from packaging to product shape—is meticulously protected.

    Proactive strategies, such as monitoring markets for counterfeiting and unauthorized use, are critical in preserving brand integrity. Collaborating with enforcement agencies and implementing stringent safeguards are key, especially in diverse markets like India were consumer dynamics demand vigilance. This approach ensures the longevity of the brand, upholding its reputation and trust across generations and geographies.

    Sir, how do you share your experience and impart education to new entrants in the legal field? What process do you follow to guide interns and inspire them to develop passion for the profession?

    Internships are essential for shaping future legal professionals. At our office, we actively host interns sent by law colleges, consistently engaging two to three interns each month. We assign them meaningful projects, encourage research, and foster collaboration, ensuring they gain practical insights that prepare them for successful careers.

    My advice to young lawyers is simple: the legal profession is a marathon, not a sprint. Patience, continuous learning, and adaptability are key. Success lies in understanding legal principles while addressing business complexities effectively. The challenge—and opportunity—is to merge theoretical knowledge with real-world solutions.

    Mentorship and exposure to seasoned professionals are invaluable in this process. Personally, working with stalwarts in multinational companies has shaped my journey, proving that growth comes through steady, purposeful learning and commitment over time.

    Sir, would you like to share some memorable achievements or recognitions from your career that had a significant impact on you and your approach to the kind of work that you have been doing?

    Ups and downs are part of every professional journey. Sometimes, despite your best efforts, outcomes may not favour you—like a lawyer who wins and loses cases or a doctor who saves lives but cannot save all.

    In my experience, one notable case involved a complex arbitration dispute. The matter escalated to the Supreme Court and back to arbitration, stretching over 15 years. For seven of those years, I was actively handling it, and by then, 30 crore rupees had already been spent on a 100-crore dispute. Such cases highlight the challenges and costs of prolonged litigation—it’s a fight that can go on endlessly if parties don’t seek resolution.

    On the other hand, there have been many rewarding moments. For instance, in a recent case, one of our competitors was disparaging our brand. We took them to court and secured a landmark order from the Delhi High Court, which stands as a testament to the power of focused legal strategy.

    My guiding principle, inspired by the Gita, is Kamrany vadhikaraste Ma Phaleshu Kada Chanan “Do your duty without worrying about the results”. The result is always a byproduct of consistent effort, dedication, and making the best use of available resources. Whether in tough challenges or noteworthy recognitions, this belief keeps me focused on delivering my best.

    You’ve pursued dual qualifications as a company secretary and a lawyer. How has this combination benefited your career, and what advice would you give to learners following the same path?

    The combination of being a company secretary and a lawyer is incredibly powerful. Company secretaryship provides deep insights into business operations, taxation, management, governance, and organizational behaviour. However, it doesn’t cover areas like civil law, criminal law, constitutional law, or jurisprudence—fields that are integral to legal practice. Law complements this by equipping you with a thorough understanding of the legal system.

    When you combine the two, you gain a unique ability to bridge business challenges with legal solutions. This synergy is highly valued by companies, especially those requiring professionals to manage both roles efficiently. Many organizations prefer hiring individuals with dual qualifications to meet regulatory requirements while optimizing resources.

    For learners, my advice is to see this combination as a long-term investment. It’s a strategic advantage that not only opens doors to versatile career opportunities but also helps you excel in leadership roles. The key is to approach your career with patience, commitment, and the understanding that success comes from integrating knowledge and applying it effectively over time. This is undoubtedly one of the best professional combinations for aspiring legal and corporate professionals.

    What unique legal challenges have you faced in the skincare industry, especially when transitioning from telecom to FMCG?

    Moving from telecom to skincare was a significant shift. Telecom revolves around services, technology, and infrastructure, like optical fibres and towers, while skincare is product-focused with manufacturing, supply chains, and distribution at its core.

    The regulatory landscape is vastly different. Telecom is governed by sector-specific regulators, whereas FMCG and cosmetics must adhere to the Drugs and Cosmetics Act and legal metrology rules. The skincare industry, often treated like pharmaceuticals, requires strict compliance to ensure product safety and consumer trust.

    Adapting to this new framework took time—about six months to fully absorb the nuances of manufacturing, distribution, and FMCG regulations. While some aspects like contracts and compliance were familiar, learning the specifics of product-centric laws and supply chain operations was essential.

    Skincare demands understanding Skin Science, rigorous compliance, strict adherence to regulatory standards, and a deep understanding of its unique challenges and competition landscape. With focus and adaptability, I’ve successfully navigated this dynamic environment, ensuring robust compliance and operational excellence.

    Outside of your professional life, what are some personal interests or hobbies that contribute to your overall well-being and work-life balance? How have you found that peaceful space for yourself?

    Earlier, I was passionate about cycling, but I had to stop due to safety concerns in Mumbai. I then shifted to yoga, which has been transformative for me over the past couple of years. Yoga, along with meditation, helps me unwind and maintain a sense of balance. Swimming is another activity I enjoy whenever I get the time—it’s both relaxing and energizing.

    Reading and listening to blogs are integral parts of my life as well. In our profession, staying informed is crucial, and I find reading to be both enriching and calming. When I have a longer break, I indulge my passion for travel—especially road trips. One of my most memorable adventures was driving from Mumbai to Ladakh; Mumbai to Kanyakumari by road with a GC friend, exploring India’s beauty by car.

    These hobbies—whether yoga, swimming, reading, or traveling—serve as my personal escape. They not only help me recharge but also motivate me, adding meaning and joy to my life beyond work.

    Get in touch with Rabindra Purohit –

  • “In the corporate world, lawyers are often viewed either as impediments to the goals that ambitious sales folks are trying to achieve or ones who should suggest mechanisms to navigate around the blockers.” – Arpita Mukherjee, Consultant – Corporate practice at ANAND AND ANAND

    “In the corporate world, lawyers are often viewed either as impediments to the goals that ambitious sales folks are trying to achieve or ones who should suggest mechanisms to navigate around the blockers.” – Arpita Mukherjee, Consultant – Corporate practice at ANAND AND ANAND

    This interview has been published by Namrata Singh and The SuperLawyer Team

    Looking back at your remarkable 34-year career, it’s evident that you’ve broken barriers and achieved significant success in a field where women were once a minority. Could you share some insights into the challenges and difficulties you faced during the early years of your career, and how you overcame them to establish yourself as a leader in corporate law?

    I love this question. In the corporate world, lawyers are often viewed either as impediments to the goals that ambitious sales folks are trying to achieve or ones who should suggest mechanisms to navigate around the blockers. Several times making your point of view heard in a room full of ambitious young men who had pre-decided the path forward was an enormous challenge. The only good point is that companies will not proceed until they have the legal sign-off so you surely had the last word but then your word will decide if you made enemies (lawyers certainly don’t make friends) or were perceived as difficult. I always viewed my role as a solution provider and what worked was to always share 2-3 options for the group to decide and weigh their risks. As a young professional, I always classified those options as High-risk, Medium-risk and Less Risk for the group to decide. Yes, you could say that this is more CYA, but I certainly did not wish to be seen as a blocker.

    Your career spans across diverse industries and roles, from telecom to multinational retail and now law consultancy. What drove you to make such transitions, and how do you think these experiences have shaped your perspective in corporate practice?

    I see my Legal role as a Risk Consultant. To add, I was passionate about learning new industries. Fortunately, the early 1990s and the liberalisation wave that set in our country brought several new industries into existence – Mobile Telecom, Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) and Technologies like Optic Fibre Networks and also infrastructure expansion. I recall, there were several Public-private sector partnership opportunities that came up. My employment with ICICI as a legal counsel exposed me to study and approve/ disapprove of legal covenants to cover risk when the organisation was sanctioning project loans to companies that were being set up in these sectors. The “thirst to learn” was a key driver. Mind you, Google was only born in 1998 so it was all hard work to find material, study them and identify risks and mitigations. And then when US MNCs started to set bases in India for outsourcing their business processes, I was perforce exposed to draw balances between the laws that governed those firms in the EU/ US and the laws that are applicable in India. I remember my stint with the BPO arm of General Electric when we had to educate our Indian employees to be familiar with FCPA (Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, 1977 of the US). The list goes on as I dabbled with more EU firms (like my stint with the Finnish-German Nokia Siemens and later with Metro Cash & Carry, AG) and this shaped me to become who I am today. In summary, “Learn and Be Curious” – which I understand is a leadership principle of today’s Amazon, is in essence I imbibed as an individual, quite unknowingly and intuitively.

    Your work includes managing legal and compliance functions across various multinational companies. Can you share a particularly challenging situation you faced in this role and how you managed to navigate through it successfully?

    One such complex instance was with my previous organisation Levi Strauss. I was their General Counsel in India and the parent organisation decided to sun-set their brand “Denizen” in the Indian market. Denizen as a brand within the company had its own set of merchandisers, retail agreements, procurement and supply chain and XXXX. While the US laws are more flexible on “firing” of employees as an outcome of business decisions, the Indian laws are not as flexible. Drawing an optimal balance was challenging and complex. You had to manage local employee morale, not draw unwanted attention from any Govt department and also educate and convince my US counterparts on the best outcome. There were long and serious discussions with the India CEO, US Legal counterparts and Finance, HR. I am proud to say that we managed it extremely well and with immense employee satisfaction and complied with all local regulations. Shaking hands (the final one) with more than 100 franchisees and distributors without a single legal notice or dispute was nothing short of a feat.

    As someone who has worked across different cultures and countries, what do you think are the key skills needed to effectively communicate and negotiate in a global business environment?

    There are 4 skill sets for a corporate lawyer and they work across cultures and geographies. You need to be an “active listener” – understand the problem right, be “patient” – 99% of the times, the first answer you hear from your stakeholder on your solution is “not acceptable” or “learn from other companies in the market which are doing this anyways”; third one is “do your homework” – remember you are solution provider and risk manager, so study in-depth about the issue and potential implications of your solution and last one is “don’t be diplomatic” – a lawyer needs to “show the mirror” to the CEO. Being ambiguous, using legalese and trying to please may work for your career in the short term but then remember, you are not in for the long haul.

    You’ve had a unique journey, including working with companies like Levi Strauss & Co and Metro Cash & Carry. Can you share a memorable experience or lesson learned from your time in these organizations?

    The most important lesson before I share any experience is that working for a firm headquartered in Germany (Metro Cash & Carry) is vastly different from a US headquartered multinational (Levi Strauss & co). I was the GC in both these firms. Both countries are economic powerhouses in their continents but their ways of working, their etiquettes, their leadership & management styles, and their focus on metrics are vastly different. For example, while some prioritised “shareholder return” more than “employee experience”, making that shift in mindset was very challenging for me. So when I was at Metro Cash & Carry, all my learnings until that time came to be of not much use (I had worked mostly with US MNCs until then) and I had to unlearn a lot of them to find my way through with the German leadership.

    Your career has seen you handle high-stakes litigations and complex negotiations. What personal qualities or attributes do you think have been most instrumental in your success?

    I think this question has a high degree of overlap with the question above on “key skills needed”. Remember you are a “solution provider” and a “risk mitigator”. And so not being diplomatic works for you. The journey is difficult and you need to learn to be “lonely” because you are perceived to be “difficult” in the organisation despite your best efforts because you are always “showing them the mirror” and people don’t like to hear counter-viewpoints. You build your credibility slowly and then comes a point when you are consulted on every minor matter before the company. I must share that this is not easy for at times I have to let go of my personal time/ vacation to solve an issue. Family support has been the key here for they understood my situation.

    You’ve been involved in significant projects like the amalgamation of Tata Group’s telecom business with Bharti Airtel. What are some key takeaways from managing such large-scale endeavours, and how do you ensure smooth execution amidst various challenges?

    Being open to a collaborative and inclusive approach is essential in navigating large conglomerates where various key stakeholders have their own mandates. Synthesizing those mandates and bringing everyone together to address the common cause (the deal) is key to the success of both the deal and its torch-bearer.

    Outside of your professional life, do you have any hobbies or interests that you’re passionate about? How do you unwind after a long day at work?

    I am passionate about music and long drives .. like super long drives with my family. For a large part of my life my Pets who are no more “Cindy, Sophia, and Socks” were my lifelines. Their unrequited love for me was a big factor. Caring for them, and playing with them was my way of unwinding. One more pet who is still alive “chutki” gave me company when for 6 years I was stationed alone in Bengaluru (my family was in Delhi). Back then, I looked forward to every Friday to fly back home. That simple thought of flying back every weekend was an adrenaline rush for me. I love nature and have a keen eye. For example, the other day while walking on the street, I showed my family an owl sitting on a lamp pole. These are small and simple events that give me immense joy.

    With your expertise in areas like intellectual property, corporate compliance, and labor laws, what advice would you give to young professionals aspiring to pursue a career in corporate law, especially in navigating the complexities of the modern business landscape?

    Today’s youngsters are way smarter than me. I don’t think they need any advice from someone like me. I can only offer one advice and that is to develop life skills that are not taught in the classrooms today and kids of today have mostly been protected and provided for in an intense manner. For example, I am not aware of any subject that teaches you to “maintain your cool when the world disagrees with your POV” in the boardroom. You will be flooded with instances where you have to walk on water (not be diplomatic yet you also wish to rise in your career graph) and that for sure is not there in any textbook. They also need to prioritize physical health along with mental well-being. Saying anything more will be preachy.

    Reflecting on your extensive career and the changes you’ve witnessed over time, what differences do you perceive between today’s generation entering the workforce and those from when you began your career? Additionally, where do you believe today’s generation could focus more on enhancing their professional development?

    Today’s generation is much more suave, articulate and well-informed. Some of my interactions with young ones impress me no end. For example, the other day I was a judge at a student event at NLU Delhi and the subject of contract negotiation was tackled by students (who probably have never negotiated in real life situation) in a manner and with such imaginative situational responses, it really left me wanting to go back to school with them.

    Get in touch with Arpita Mukherjee-

  • “Legal compliance is not just a requirement; it’s a commitment to ethical practices and client trust.” – Explore the symbiotic relationship between luxury real estate and legal expertise, Rohit Chopra, Consultant & Founder of South Delhi Prime and Goa Prime.

    “Legal compliance is not just a requirement; it’s a commitment to ethical practices and client trust.” – Explore the symbiotic relationship between luxury real estate and legal expertise, Rohit Chopra, Consultant & Founder of South Delhi Prime and Goa Prime.

    This interview has been published by Namrata Singh and The SuperLawyer Team

    Congratulations on your remarkable 27+ years in the real estate industry! Looking back, your educational journey reflects a focused approach towards real estate from an early age. Can you share what inspired you to choose real estate, and did you always know this was the path you wanted to pursue?

    Real estate as an industry has excited me since early childhood. There’s no exaggeration if I say that I decided to become a realtor while I was still studying in school. As I completed my high school education and stepped out to become a realtor, I consumed every little detail about the market (South Delhi) I wanted to specialize in. This happens to be the area I grew up in and to some extent knew inside out. In the days to come, I realized that demand for luxury homes around the area was skyrocketing and there was immense scope to expand my services across different locations so yes the approach was always focussed.

    That’s when I decided to partner with locational experts and take my business https://southdelhiprime.com/ to an all-new level. In fact, I’ll say I always enjoyed and still enjoy influencing friends to join real estate

    Starting a company is a significant undertaking. What were the most challenging aspects you faced during the startup of South Delhi Prime, and how did you overcome them? Any lessons you learned that you would share with aspiring entrepreneurs, especially from the current generation?

    For the 27-odd years that I have been in the shoes of a realtor, not once have I felt intimidated to take the lead. I will credit all the stakeholders who made me feel at ease while crediting myself for putting in the backend work. However, if I have to list one challenge, I’d say it has to do with helping every team member find their purpose while making room for their personal growth and satisfaction.

    To achieve this objective, I feel it is necessary to encourage dialogue, mostly 1:1 interactions wherein the leader can understand the teammate’s state of mind and suggest accordingly. Being in the business of selling super luxury homes, managing the art of frustrations and disappointments, having supreme self-belief, and trusting in the process is of paramount importance, thus when every team member is on the same page, I believe can organizations walk collectively in the direction of fastened progress to become a dominant leader in the business. I’d like upcoming startup founders to take note of this.

    Given your involvement in luxury real estate, what unique challenges and opportunities do you find in dealing with high-value transactions, and how does your educational foundation in Law aid you in addressing these challenges effectively?

    Since we run a 100% referral business there are no major challenges as such because the person approaching us already has the required faith and belief that we’d be able to help them find their dream luxury property. However, there is one realization I have developed in the process, which I believe can act as a great opportunity of success too, which is to be a continuous learner. Also I feel delegation and moving away from micromanagement has helped us in being fully available to our clients – right support at the right time ideology.

    In terms of my educational foundation in law, this degree surely complements my role as a realtor by enabling precise contract drafting, ensuring terms are clear and favorable. It aids in compliance with regulations, safeguarding clients from potential pitfalls. Familiarity with property laws and zoning regulations enhances the ability to identify viable investment opportunities and mitigate risks, which can eventually be optimized in the interest of our clients. Furthermore, during deliberations regarding the property’s title chain with either the Seller, the Buyer, or their legal representatives, I am equipped to offer guidance and advice concerning the accuracy of the title, while also facilitating the provision of necessary legal remedies.

    You’ve mentioned that South Delhi Prime is the digital arm of ‘SanD Advisory Pvt Ltd.’ How has technology, especially legal tech, played a role in shaping and enhancing your real estate advisory and transaction processes?

    I’d like to believe legal tech has revolutionized the real estate landscape by streamlining processes and enhancing efficiency. For instance, automated contract management has helped improve the accuracy and speed of closing transactions and reduced overall administrative burdens. In fact, online platforms always come in handy to provide quick access to property laws, zoning regulations, and market trends, a must-have for realtors and clients alike. Blockchain technology and E-signature tools are other interesting legal tech alternatives, I believe can change the face of the real estate market. I’d conclude by saying that in today’s digital age, what is real estate without legal tech?

    As a principal consultant and entrepreneur with a focus on start-ups in the real estate domain, how do you believe your educational background in law has equipped you to make strategic decisions, and what qualities do you consider essential for individuals venturing into entrepreneurship in this industry, especially when navigating the initial legal challenges?

    I’d say my educational background in law has helped in shaping my strategic mindset, which I believe is vital for navigating the complex legalities in the real estate landscape. The ability to interpret intricate regulations and negotiate contracts is paramount, something my law background helps me with tremendously. Moving ahead, the essential qualities I believe real estate entrepreneurs need to possess are adaptability to the ever-evolving legal frameworks, a keen analytical eye, and effective communication. Moreover, to be able to navigate initial legal challenges, resilience, proactive compliance measures, and a commitment to ethical practices become mandatory. 

    With the rise of legal tech solutions, how do you see technology continuing to influence the legal and real estate sectors? Are there particular innovations that have significantly benefited your practice or streamlined operations?

     From what I have noticed the surge in legal tech has helped shape the legal and real estate landscape by ensuring efficiency and precision. Innovations like AI-powered contract analysis fasten transactions, while blockchain ensures secure and transparent property deals. Virtual reality enhances property showcasing from the comfort of our homes. For our business per se, digital platforms for market analysis and e-signature tools have been of significance to streamline our luxury real estate business, saving time and enhancing client experiences, which happens to be the ultimate goal of our business.

    Considering your proficiency in law, are there specific legal trends or changes in regulations that you believe will significantly impact the real estate landscape in the near future?

    As a luxury realtor, who has been around for almost 3 decades now, having explored the traditional way of working to now getting a taste of the best of the digital world offerings,  I anticipate several legal trends taking the real estate space by a storm. I’d like to believe increasing emphasis on sustainable and green practices may end up influencing property development regulations. Similarly, data privacy laws shall become vital in handling client information securely, a non-negotiable in today’s times. Zoning regulations could eventually accommodate flexible workspaces. Additionally, emerging technologies, like blockchain, can revolutionize property transactions. These are just some of the many trends I can immediately think of.

    With your extensive background in sales and marketing, how do you ensure that legal considerations are seamlessly integrated into the overall strategy of acquiring and selling real estate assets for your clients?

    I would say exercising rigorous due diligence precedes each transaction at South Delhi Prime and now Goa Prime, which helps with mitigating risks and placing client interests on the pedestal. Similarly, practicing transparent communication on legal nuances proves equally integral in client interactions, eventually instilling trust. We also make it a point to tweak our sales and marketing strategies in line with the legal frameworks, thus optimizing property positioning. With this approach, we have been able to maximize asset value, safeguard client interests, and set a standard of excellence in the luxury real estate domain.

    What made you choose the South Delhi Market? Do legal dimensions change in real estate based on the region and if yes to what extent?

    Like I said earlier, having grown up in South Delhi and having known the region inside out was one of the pivotal reasons behind me fixing my mind on the South Delhi luxury real estate market. South Delhi is home and with South Delhi Prime we wanted to make our clients feel at home.

    To answer the second part of the question, yes, legal dimensions in real estate do vary significantly based on regions. In fact local laws dictate property rights, zoning regulations, and transaction procedures. From land use policies to contract requirements, regional nuances play a crucial role, making it crucial for realtors to develop a deeper understanding of specific legal frameworks and eventually navigate related complexities.

    Balancing the demands of a thriving real estate business with your personal life can be challenging. Tell us more about what your day looks like.

    Work days are extremely busy for me. Being a realtor, most of my business associations ride on relationships. To build these relationships, it is necessary for me to step out in the field, go meet people, pass on information, note down their requirements, and ultimately help them with their dream property. One word to describe my routine is Hustle-Continuous Hustle day in and day out.

    On starting my day, I tend to finish any e-meets that may be scheduled. Then I drive either to work or the client’s/prospect’s home/office. Breakfast usually happens between meetings. At work, I get done with all that is a priority before again moving to the field to keep in touch with the happenings. Usually, my days are very busy but I have no complaints.

    I always dreamt of becoming a successful realtor and today living my dream is what gives me a different kind of high. All the team members share their schedule for the day and I try to join them wherever I am needed and wherever I can. For more than 27 years I have been following one motto – I have to do the most productive thing possible in any given moment. Had read it somewhere and it has stayed with me since🙂

    In your experience, how crucial is legal expertise in the real estate industry, and what advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs about navigating legal complexities in this field?

    I’ll say legal expertise is paramount in real estate as it heavily influences transactions, contracts, and compliance. For aspiring entrepreneurs, I’d suggest understanding local laws, contracts, and staying abreast with the evolving regulations is crucial. Similarly, whenever possible investing in legal education, consulting with experts, and prioritizing compliance to mitigate risks is equally critical to long-term survival and success. A solid legal foundation ensures ethical practices, builds trust, and is instrumental in establishing a successful and sustainable real estate venture, which is why I’d encourage entrepreneurs to not shy away from acquainting themselves with legal knowledge and avoid fearing related complexities.

    Ultimately, when acquiring a real estate asset, you are purchasing not only the physical structure or land but also the associated title papers. The integrity of the title papers is paramount, as the real estate asset represents a legacy asset, necessitating legal precision and correctness at 100% each time and every time. 

    Get in touch with Rohit Chopra-

  • There is no amount of words for the feeling of being able to satisfy your client’s business needs and having your client shower you with praises-Rushmina Murtuza, UK Qualified Barrister & Multi-Jurisdictional Contract Specialist Lawyer

    There is no amount of words for the feeling of being able to satisfy your client’s business needs and having your client shower you with praises-Rushmina Murtuza, UK Qualified Barrister & Multi-Jurisdictional Contract Specialist Lawyer

    This interview has been published by Priyanka Karwa and The SuperLawyer Team

    Can you tell us about your journey in the legal services industry and how you ended up specializing in Tech, Internet, Software, and Contract Law?

    My legal journey started in a boutique law firm, which specialised in a variety of areas of law, including civil, criminal, commercial, property and corporate law. I would spend my time as an intern focusing on obtaining the maximum exposure I could in these afore-mentioned areas of the law, to provide me with not only general legal knowledge but to afford me with the ability to ascertain the branch of law I would later specialise in. Many long hours were spent in front of the photocopy machine during this stage. I soon graduated as an intern to overseeing the commercial and civil departments of this boutique law firm.

    Shortly afterwards, I was afforded the opportunity to move on to mainly in-house counsel roles where I was responsible for heading up the legal department and attending to all corporate matters for a start-up business institute company in South Africa.

    Thereafter, I moved to join the commercial department of an international company based in the U.K., as a Senior Associate. This company specialized in outsourcing legal services to both top-tier law firms and tech savvy businesses around the world. My passion for technology, internet, software and contract law was born during this stage of my legal experiences, where I was working with front runners of the tech industry and their legal needs on a daily basis.  

    Subsequently I was headhunted by a European-based company, with worldwide offices, to join their team as their Head of Legal. This position afforded me with the opportunity to work and grow with a start-up company, where I was responsible not only for the legal aspects a company faces from day-to-day but also the operations, marketing and business performance of the company. This gave me a full house experience of all the operational aspects within a company. However, I soon craved to get back to technology and contract law. It was then that I decided to venture forward to become a freelance legal counsel working with companies across sectors, whilst focusing in the area of business and legal consulting on technological related transactions, outsourcing agreements and covering the full spectrum of commercial and business law related issues.

    As a U.K. qualified Barrister and Multi-Jurisdictional Lawyer, you have worked with clients across local and international borders. How has this diverse experience shaped your perspective on legal issues and cross-border transactions?

    I have found that as businesses continue to grow and open offices in multiple locations, to meet the demands of the evolving global marketplace, clients are keen to obtain trusted legal counsel who are able to understand their business needs and provide specialist advice not only on the local laws of the countries in which the client is based, but also in other jurisdictions. This allows the companies to grow holistically, in that legal counsel is able to support and negotiate on behalf of the company with parties in multiple countries that typically have varying, and sometimes conflicting, legal and regulatory environments. Cross border transactions are often complex and challenging, as you are faced with cultural differences that may impact business negotiations, language barriers, and conflicting laws which can sometimes impede the legal process. However, what is key is to always come from a place of patience, respectfulness, and have open communication.   

    You have extensive experience in reviewing and drafting various types of contracts in the tech industry, including Software Licensing, SaaS, PaaS, IoT, and AI-related contracts. Could you share some insights into the unique challenges and considerations when dealing with these types of agreements?

    The main challenges of drafting and reviewing tech/software/internet related contracts is to ensure that you have understood the client’s business and have obtained the maximum information from the client. As I draft bespoke contracts for my clients, I find it imperative that I understand my client’s business model, needs and concerns before putting pen to paper. This sometimes involves numerous rounds of Q&A. But sticking to the process, no matter how tedious it can sometimes be, ensures that I am able to minimize my client’s potential risks and provide suitable advice and recommendations.

    Contracts are the focus point for many business transactions as they document the relationship, services, products and rights of each of the parties involved. As such, a well drafted contract should always aim to be unambiguous and clear so that it may be understood by a layperson, as well as not being open to judicial interpretation which may not be favourable to the client. Poorly drafted contracts pave the way for possible disputes between the parties when the interpretation of the terms of the contract and intention of the parties are questioned. Contracts should be seen as an asset for the client, protecting the client and other party’s rights, while making them feel safe and understood, so that the client is able to concentrate on important business matters.  

    Internet Law is another area of expertise for you, encompassing website terms and conditions, privacy policies, and contracts related to web-based and mobile applications. How do you navigate the evolving landscape of internet regulations and ensure compliance for your clients?

    The best way to stay abreast of ever-changing regulations is to read continuously. I find that subscribing to legal journals and newsletters, which drop updates in to your mail box frequently are a great way of keeping up to date. Also, speaking with fellow colleagues in the same industry is always an added bonus. I am a firm believer that knowledge should be shared to allow us all to grow and evolve.

    It is important to note that bar councils and other legal authorities are also available to provide guidance and practice notes to assist lawyers in remaining compliant with their legal duties towards their clients, as legal professionals.

    In your role as a Head of Legal, you were responsible for setting up business operations, developing marketing strategies, and managing a team in a global organization. What were some of the key challenges you faced in this position, and how did you overcome them?

    I have always loved practicing law, so whilst embarking on this journey as Head of Legal, I attempted to enjoy each step and to meet any challenges head on. I would say that the most challenging was the constant travelling and the long working hours. It was sometimes difficult to remain motivated when you are working 7 days a week for a minimum of 12 hours. I also had a young family at this time, and sharing my time with them was equally (if not more) important and required great discipline and time management on my part. It is always imperative, as lawyers and legal professionals that we keep in mind what matters in this world, so that you are able to strive for personal development in your career whilst also making memories with those that are close to you. Striking this balance is not always easy, but the rewards are innumerable!

    During your tenure as a Director of Legal Affairs, you focused on corporate administration, contract review, and training programs. Could you elaborate on your experience in developing comprehensive training programs on legal and business-related principles?

    While I was working with this company as the Director of Legal Affairs, the company developed a new branch of their business which aimed at educating both high school graduates and well-seasoned business people on various aspects of business administration and management in the hospitality industry. It was at this time that I was approached, by the company and a recognized university, to work together to develop and offer a training module for their Management Development Programme, focusing on the laws that a business owner would need to successfully run a company. This was a 12 week intensive program, accompanied by assessments to gauge the students understanding of the information being taught. It was a highly rewarding experience which gave me new found respect for teaching professionals, as well as great pride in playing a small part in sharing knowledge with others.

    I subsequently also upskilled myself and became a registered facilitator and moderator for certificate-level training courses.

    You have published several articles on topics such as outsourcing technology services, virtual merger agreements, and executing legal agreements through innovative methods like WhatsApp. What drives you to share your knowledge through these publications, and how do you stay updated on the latest trends and developments in the legal field?

    I believe that knowledge is not something we should keep hidden. Knowledge shared means that we all grow, and as a result we better ourselves but also our environment. Engaging in educational pedagogy sharing is great for building rapport and relationships, makes us become stronger as professionals, and within the workplace, it supports growth and innovation amongst all team members.

    As provided earlier, I stay abreast of the latest trends and developments in the legal field, not only through subscribing to relevant journals/newsletters, but also communicating with my peers, discussing legal cases with them, and developing a thirst to become the best version of myself so that I am able to provide my clients with a high-quality service.

    With your wealth of experience, what advice would you give to fresh law graduates who are considering a career in the legal services industry? What skills and qualities should they focus on developing to succeed in today’s legal landscape?

    To those of you, who have just completed your law studies, I would say that you should concentrate on establishing your passion, put your head down and work hard, absorb as much knowledge (both printed and practical) as you possibly can, remain humble and true to yourself, and always aim to provide an exemplary service to your clients.

    To succeed I would say the qualities you should focus on is to remain authentic, be positive, work hard and be determined and diligent. In terms of skills, the sky is the limit. Choose what you have a passion for, and immerse yourself so that you become an expert whilst always increasing your knowledge either through taking courses, speaking with fellow peers, or reading.

    Throughout your career, you have worked with start-ups, established companies, and individuals. What have been some of the most rewarding aspects of providing legal counsel to these different types of clients?

    The best reward is ALWAYS a happy client. There is no amount of words for the feeling of being able to satisfy your client’s business needs and having your client shower you with praises. Also, having clients from various sectors, and at different stages of their business or personal journey is a learning curve. Each lesson learnt makes for a stronger lawyer when the next client comes along. Each type of client brings their own set of challenges, which as legal professionals we must overcome. The best advice I can give is to take things slow and move one step at a time. Do not rush in too fast. The time taken at the initial meeting with the client is a significant step in ensuring the success of the job and a happy client.

    As the legal landscape continues to evolve, what emerging trends or challenges do you foresee in the areas of Tech, Internet, Software, and Contract Law? How do you anticipate these changes will impact legal professionals and their clients?

    The areas of technology, internet, software and contract law are ever evolving areas especially as we live in a technologically advanced era where change is inevitable. I foresee that these areas will continue to grow and expand, especially as more businesses venture for a global presence. This growth and development will no doubt challenge current legislation which is more suited for traditional businesses. Thus, the legal industry will be forced to adapt so that current legislation meets these changes.

    To stay ahead of the game, legal professionals must keep themselves informed on legal and regulatory changes, but also familiarize themselves with the intricacies of their client’s business models, services/product offering, technology, and not taking a backseat, but becoming immersed and a champion of the client’s business is mandatory. Most important of all is setting the bar high and providing a QUALITY professional service at all times!

    Get in touch with

  • In Conversation with: Avneesh Chopra, Head (Legal) and Company Secretary at Valvoline Cummins Pvt Ltd (India)

    In Conversation with: Avneesh Chopra, Head (Legal) and Company Secretary at Valvoline Cummins Pvt Ltd (India)

    This interview has been published by Prabhjot Singh, Priyanka Karwa and The SuperLawyer Team

    Was doing law pre-planned or did you instantly make a decision to pursue law?

    Yes, doing law was pre-planned. My father who is also law graduate from Delhi University introduced me to the law and law books. We used to have a small library at home where I enjoyed reading the case laws on contracts, IPC etc.

    When I went to do B. Com (H), I was introduced to contracts law, sale of goods, partnership, and property laws, where the actual journey to understand the law started.  To further enhance my knowledge of law, I also decided to pursue the Company Secretary course which provided me more insight into finance and taxation, and the law governing the corporate entities.

    Having more than 2 decades of experience in the legal industry, what strategies keep you going in this profession?

    The strategy which keeps me going is that I always consider myself a student. As a student, I am open to new learnings, changes and challenges.

    As a law student, I developed the habit of observing and learning, before interpreting and applying. While working as an in-house lawyer, I realized that to have legal knowledge is not enough; hence, I worked myself to understand the other facets of the business, competition, industry, and kept myself updated on foreign economic and  regulatory environment, as well.

    During my career, I also faced a few up and downs which fortunately helped me develop a network of mentors, comprising individuals who have supported me during testing times.

    Do you think after doing CS, it’s an easy sail for every legal professional in the corporate world? We have heard opposing arguments though from some people!

    Nothing is easy in the corporate world if you are a legal professional. The Company Secretary Course will help you understand the way in which an organization operates and functions. If you wish to work in the Legal Team of a company, then the Company Secretary course is a good option as it is designed to give you knowledge in various subjects and areas which are beyond the law as well.

    The Company Secretary works as a link between the company and its board of directors, shareholders, government, and various regulatory authorities.

    Hence, they take up diverse roles in the management, taxation and finance departments of a company and help the company in all such areas. It is incorrect to say that Company Secretary course is an easy sail; it should be kept in mind that every professional in the corporate world must prove their worth and deliver results to move up the ladder.

    Avneesh as you are experienced in dealing with POSH cases, we have heard a lot about “Quid Pro Quo Harassment” and what are the punishments for the same?

    In Latin, “Quid-Pro-Quo” means “something for something”. Quid pro quo sexual harassment occurs when employment, pay, benefits, title, position or other opportunities for advancement or training, are conditioned upon the submission to unwelcome sexual advances.

    Quid-pro-quo is a serious offence. It is extremely important to be very clear and transparent in all businesses dealing with employees at the workplace. The punishment depends upon a case-to-case basis ranging from disciplinary action including a written apology, reprimand, warning, censure withholding of promotion/ pay raise/ increment, termination of employment, undergo counselling etc. In some matters, it could also lead to a criminal complaint against the perpetrator.

    Reg -Tech is helpful they say in doing compliance’s, how far do you believe this?

    Definitely, any tool and technology which reduces human efforts and intervention are going to help. In a digital environment featuring complex business structures with the change of law and regulations almost happening on daily basis, organizations require tools that will keep them up to date with the latest regulatory changes thereby minimizing the likelihood of human error.

    Reg-Tech can also provide increased confidence in meeting board agendas pertaining to issues such as transparency and proactive reporting of risks and compliance. This technology also allows companies to meet regulatory-driven data activities and support submissions to regulatory bodies in an accurate and consistent manner.

    However, before implementing and recommending Reg-Tech, we as lawyers need to learn about the technology, its architecture, data models, as well as algorithms.

    We also need to understand cross-functional teams for evaluating the risks, beyond the legal risk of using manual and automated processes, along with the legal risks related to any specific Reg-Tech product. Data protection and privacy remain the most important factors to consider when using Reg-Tech.

    As tech startups are growing like never before, do you think our data is protected and the level of secrecy is maintained?

    Data is growing faster than ever. Data secrecy and conditionality are prime concerns of General Counsels (GCs). The prevalence of cyber-attacks, frauds & crime and the emergence of new regulations like CERT guidelines are forcing boards and their GCs to work closely with the chief information security officer (CISO) to make decisions about how to protect the company against cyber-attacks, respond to data breaches as well as other attacks, while complying with applicable data protection laws.

    My personal experience suggests that many tech start-ups are not investing enough time & sources and are not incorporating privacy as the default.

    In recent times, we have seen the Government withdrawing the personal data protection (PDP) Bill after receiving concerns from Indian start-ups, which suggest that data localization requirements in the draft PDP Bill are too “compliance intensive” and could hamper the ease of doing business and stifle innovation.

    The same may be true, however data security and confidentially should be paramount and should be a part of the core DNA of any start-up or organization. The tech start-ups should consider data privacy as part of their core foundation before offering any products, services, and processing data, which will enable them to be future-ready. Further, it will bring transparency and trust among the users and customers.

    How do you see the corporate world serving more opportunities to individuals in the legal world?

    Multiple opportunities are available in the corporate world for individuals. The legal department as business partners must take ownership and support the overall success of a company.

    Depending on the nature and size of the business, in-house legal work has been rising in volume, especially in specific areas like environment & safety, data protection & privacy, competition law as well as other  regulatory & compliance work arising out of amendments and change in law, compliance breaches, intellectual property protection, M&A etc.

    Another reason for the increase in legal work is the growing attention to legal budget control and better risk management, whereby in-house lawyers’ must have more knowledge about the company as compared to external lawyers.

    At present, many lawyers are contributing to multiple facets of the organization such as corporate governance, contracts, litigation, compliances, ethics, investigation, internal control & audit, employment, data privacy as well as other security matters, corporate social responsibility, policy advocacy & liaison, taxation and finance.

    The key attribute for an individual to grow in the corporate world is that they should have commercial sense, be willing to learn, explore new opportunities and be ready to work outside their comfort zone.

    Any advice for our readers?

    To succeed as an in-house lawyer, you need to be proactive, flexible, find solutions and communicate them in a concise and simple manner. You must understand the business, the industry, collaborate more with other businesses, build trust, and relationships. One must also ensure the alignment of expectations and communicate them. It is also important to remain  a lifelong learner.

    In today’s dynamic environment, if you can think and act as entrepreneur, the same is going to help you immensely.

    Get in touch with Avneesh Chopra-

  • In conversation with Rohit Jain- An Advocate, a former Legal Journalist, and a qualified Company Secretary, who is currently working as an Account Director at Adfactors PR

    In conversation with Rohit Jain- An Advocate, a former Legal Journalist, and a qualified Company Secretary, who is currently working as an Account Director at Adfactors PR

    This interview has been published by Sonali Parashar, Ojuswi Sahay and the SuperLawyer Team

    Could you please share with us your inclination towards law and tell us why you decided to pursue this discipline?

    First of all, thank you for this interview opportunity. Before starting on what made me pursue this discipline a little bit about myself. 

    I come from the small town of Dhule, Maharashtra where I completed my education till the eighth grade. Post that, I shifted to my current home town of Nashik where I completed my junior college (11th and 12th). I chose to pursue Bachelors of Computer Applications as computers were a rage those days. Post that I completed my MBA with Finance specialisation which helped me in getting my first job. 

    It will be slightly wrong if I say that law was always my first choice. Since my school days, I have had a multi-disciplinary approach towards studies and consuming knowledge in general. Until the 10th grade, I was deeply interested in mathematics and science. During graduation, it shifted towards finance and technology. 

    My interest in law evolved over a period of time. One of the first encounters with something purely legal that I can clearly remember was the starting copyright notice of this fantastic NES game – Captain America and The Avengers that I used to play during the early 2000s. The game starts with a copyright notice “Captain America, the Avengers and distinctive likenesses thereof”...During my bachelor’s, I enjoyed the coding as well as reading EULAs and software legal disclaimers that are embedded in these software. 

    My interest in law became even stronger once I cleared the Company Secretary examination. This coupled with my drafting skills, unquenchable appetite for reading and ability to understand complex things helped my transition into the legal sector. 

    You hold a degree in MBA in Finance and you also went on to pursue CS. What motivated you to pursue a career in the corporate sector?

    At the start, I was more inclined towards getting a government job or joining the civil services. Unlike the freshers of today, I knew of no other choice other than a corporate or a government job. Startups (as a choice as they are today) were non-existent then and NGOs were not the talk of the town. 

    My efforts in applying for government jobs bore fruit more than once. But I got rejected in the final rounds which dissuaded me from moving further. Once I got my first job with Axis Bank and then Deloitte USI, it was never looking back. I believe that if a person is good at the work that he/she does, the sector can never be a constraint. I have seen people transitioning from corporate to academia and then public services also. 

    Multiple factors work together in shaping your choice at any point in time. 

    You began your career working as a Legal Analyst for Deloitte US India Offices. Can you please tell us about your experience there? 

    I was part of the Office of General Counsel in Deloitte USI, which is the Indian subsidiary of the US-based Deloitte Consulting LLP. Our team handled the core legal functions pertaining to the Deloitte USI entities. 

    To put it in a nutshell, my work involved drafting, vetting and negotiating contracts, legal research, handling corporate secretarial compliances and providing counsel on legal matters. This would range from traditional areas such as employment laws to emerging areas like data privacy and taxation.

    Having worked there for nearly 5 years, I can say that Deloitte USI has one of the best environments that one can work in. The learning and development opportunities were immense – we had access to some of the top-notch legal training databases that may otherwise be reserved only for seniors in other companies. 

    I was lucky enough to have a wonderful and supportive team which was equally exuberant in the interests that I had. 

    You also worked at Bloomberg Quint as a Legal Correspondent reporting and writing on corporate, taxation, insolvency, securities and, indirect tax laws. What was working with a news portal like and how did it shape your career?

    My stint as a journalist helped me in enhancing my writing skills, although I do not agree with some of the writing conventions that journalists follow in general. Anyways, the stint as a journalist helped me in being more expressive of what I felt insofar as law and policy are concerned. I became more active on social media, especially LinkedIn. As a journalist, you can write in a more expressive manner. Inhibitions go away. 

    I was lucky enough to shift to journalism at a time when the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code was slowly gaining momentum. Because of this, I got the opportunity to visit the High Court, SAT and the NCLT and listen to the arguments on an almost daily basis. Being from a legal background, I could relate to the arguments and developments even more. This also provided me with an opportunity to know a few practising lawyers who have now become good friends. 

    Being a part of the Strategic Communications group at Adfactors PR, India’s largest public relations company, how important do you believe communication and people skills are in one’s career, and how did law help you in developing these skills?

    Communication and people skills are an absolute must in one’s career. 

    From a public relations perspective, communication determines the state of relation between an inanimate object – a company – and its external stakeholders, who are animate.  A plethora of case studies has shown that a crisis situation could have been totally avoided or handled in a much better and smoother manner if the communication was properly done. Good communication skills equally matter for an employee as she/he climbs up the career ladder. 

    People skills also hold equal importance. We are living in changing times. The world is moving towards a flatter organisational structure, breaking unnecessary hierarchies and stereotypes that hitherto existed. People skills are thus very imperative for all, especially managers. It can be as simple as making a person feel welcome on her/his first day of work or being accommodative towards your colleagues. The way a person treats and behaves with others stays in the mind forever. So, people skills are equally important.

    You hold a PG Diploma in Cyber and media laws. What interested you the most in this and how should one go about making a career in these fields?

    Cyber law as a term has become a slightly out of date term now. Today, it is rather known as tech law, data privacy law etc. One must note that a 3 year or 5 years LLB program is a mix of different laws but nothing offers you specialisation. For instance, Patent and Copyright laws are so vast, yet they are mixed together in just one module (Intellectual Property) in a law school. The focused approach towards cyber law and media law interested me the most.

    The legal field of today demands specialisation. If you see the new practices being set up in law firms, one may notice areas such as technology, data privacy, blockchain and crypto etc. To gain a foothold in such areas, one needs a mix of solid work experience and academic knowledge. It is at this juncture that PG Diplomas help you. 

    We must remember though. Merely doing a Diploma as an additional course will not land you the dream job.

    Many legal professionals aim at pursuing CS. What are the aspects that one should keep in mind according to you, to prepare themselves in this regard?

    The Company Secretary course requires intense study. Lawyers who are working in law firms may find it difficult to devote adequate time to study because of their long working hours. Those who work in corporate law will find it easy as the syllabus will match their working area. They may face a challenge with the finance and accountancy modules though. 

    When I attempted the CS professional module, I remember quoting real-world, recent and relevant details in my answer sheet. For instance, I would have written about the IL&FS crisis w.r.t corporate governance if I was attempting my answers now. While the relevance depends on the invigilator, there is a good chance that you will get commensurate marks.

    In my opinion, lawyers who wish to become compliance officers must pursue the CS course. In general, the LLB syllabus of a 5-year course from a good law school is more than enough. 

    Finally, a word of advice for professionals leaping into communications and related fields?

    Public relation is an exciting field. Not many know about this industry because it is mostly based out of the top 3-4 metro cities. It is much more than just advertising. The lines are blurring though. 

    As a start, professionals intending to switch over to comms/ PR must develop a bandwidth to track what is happening in the world of media, what journalists are writing about, what are the topics being talked about etc. Like any other field, PR also involves specialisation. So a person from an engineering background who is good in communication skills can add much value to a client requiring advisory on ESG, mobility or allied areas. Comms and PR is an exciting domain where a long term play can be really rewarding. 

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