Sir, could you please share your journey and the pivotal moments that led you to pursue a career in law, eventually becoming the Legal Head at Devyani International Limited?
During my school days, I frequented Tiz Hazari District Courts in New Delhi due to my grandfather’s profession as a lawyer. His encouragement fueled my interest in attending court sessions whenever possible, marking the inception of my journey into law. This passion was further nurtured during my academic years, especially under the guidance of Rahul Sir from the Rahul IAS institute. His notes continue to be a valuable resource, serving as a foundation for resolving intricate legal issues.
As my career progressed, I recognized the importance of a well-rounded skill set. This realization led me to pursue Company Secretaryship alongside law. This dual expertise eventually culminated in my role as the Legal Head at Devyani International Limited. In this capacity, I oversee legal strategies, compliance, and contribute to the success of the company in the dynamic Food and Beverage Industry.
With a background in both law and company secretaryship, how do you find these two roles intersecting, and how has this unique combination of skills shaped your approach to legal matters within a corporate setting?
The intersection of law and company secretaryship provides a comprehensive perspective for addressing legal intricacies within a corporate environment. The legal background ensures a profound understanding of legal frameworks, while company secretaryship fosters a practical approach to corporate governance, compliance, and administration, particularly for listed companies.
This unique combination empowers me to align legal strategies with the organization’s overarching objectives. It facilitates a cohesive approach to navigating legal matters within a corporate setting, seamlessly integrating legal compliance into the fabric of the company’s operations.
In your current role, you’ve been involved in a variety of agreements and legal due diligence. Can you elaborate on a specific challenging scenario you encountered and how you navigated through it successfully?
Expanding into new markets is a challenge for almost all the industries. Thorough legal due diligence revealed discrepancies in local regulations that could potentially impede the business activities. To navigate this, we engage the regional legal experts, conduct exhaustive consultations with regulatory bodies, and meticulously tailored our agreements to comply with nuanced legal requirements. This proactive approach, coupled with collaborative efforts between legal and operational teams, allowed us to successfully navigate the complexities.
As an In-house Counsel, you’ve been responsible for ensuring compliance with various regulations. How do you stay abreast of the evolving legal landscape, and how do you ensure that your organization remains compliant with the relevant laws?
Being an in-house counsel exposes you to a myriad of scenarios. Analytical and problem-solving skills are essential to skim through each case. Given that law demands constant courtship, possessing knowledge not only about the law but also about the organization’s operations is vital. This necessitates a quest for understanding the company’s role to prevent mismanagement in the long run.
Developing these skills involves attending workshops, seminars, conferences, and engaging with professionals in the sector. This keeps you updated with current developments and exposes you to diverse opinions, fostering out-of-the-box thinking. Lastly, cultivating a habit of reading is crucial for professional growth, challenging preconceptions, analyzing the status quo, and confronting ideas outside one’s comfort zone.
In your experience, you’ve handled pre-litigation and post-litigation matters, including drafting legal notices and representing the company in court. Can you share a particularly complex or high-stakes litigation case you’ve dealt with and the strategies you employed to achieve a favorable outcome?
Handling pre-litigation and post-litigation matters, one complex case involved a landlord refusing to take over the property. To navigate this, a comprehensive legal strategy was devised, emphasizing thorough case analysis, diligent research, and timely collaboration with the external legal counsel. Open communication with all stakeholders, including senior management, allowed for a holistic understanding of the case’s intricacies. A strategic negotiation approach was adopted to explore settlement options, mitigating potential risks. Ultimately, a favourable outcome was achieved through a combination of legal expertise, strategic foresight, and effective communication.
You have been recognized for your leadership skills and contributions to the business expansion, having successfully closed over 400 property agreements in a short span of 4 years, as acknowledged by the Chief Legal Officer of KFC Global/Pizza Hut. Could you please share some insights into the challenges and key strategies you employed during this expansion process?
During an expansion process, challenges often arise, ranging from regulatory hurdles to cultural integration. Key strategies involve meticulous due diligence, identifying and mitigating potential risks, and fostering effective communication between all involved parties. Transparent communication with the existing workforce helps manage concerns and ensures a smoother transition. Flexibility in adapting strategies based on the unique aspects of each acquisition is crucial. Leadership in this context requires a holistic understanding of legal, financial, and operational facets, aligning them with the overarching business objectives.
Having worked on issues related to intellectual property rights and trademarks, what advice would you give to businesses, especially in the food and beverage industry, regarding protecting their intellectual property in a competitive market?
Intellectual property protection is crucial in the competitive food and beverage industry. Businesses should proactively register trademarks to safeguard their unique assets. Regular monitoring of the market for potential infringements is essential. Developing a comprehensive intellectual property strategy involves legal counsel to identify and address potential risks. Collaboration with regulatory bodies and industry associations provides additional layers of protection. Educating employees about intellectual property rights and implementing strict confidentiality measures internally is equally vital. In essence, a proactive and multi-layered approach is key to preserving intellectual property in a fiercely competitive market
Given your diverse experience, what advice would you offer to fresh law graduates aspiring to build a successful career in corporate law and company secretarial roles?
For fresh law graduates aspiring to excel in corporate law and company secretarial roles, I would offer the following advice:
Continuous Learning: Stay updated with legal developments, industry trends, and business dynamics. Invest time in ongoing legal education to enhance your skills and adapt to changes.
Networking: Build a strong professional network within the legal community and the industries you serve. Networking provides valuable insights, mentorship opportunities, and career advancement.
Communication Skills: Develop effective communication skills, both written and verbal. Clear and concise communication is crucial in legal roles, especially when conveying complex information to diverse stakeholders.
Adaptability: The legal landscape evolves, and corporate environments can be dynamic. Be adaptable and embrace change, leveraging it as an opportunity for growth.
Ethical Practice: Uphold the highest ethical standards. Integrity is foundational in the legal profession, and maintaining a reputation for ethical practice is essential for a successful career.
Team Collaboration: In corporate settings, legal professionals often work collaboratively with various departments. Foster strong teamwork and collaboration skills to contribute effectively to overall business objectives.
Incorporating these principles into your professional journey can help build a solid foundation for a successful and fulfilling career in corporate.
Can you walk us through your journey from being a junior advocate to your current role as a seasoned legal professional in corporate operations and compliance?
My journey in the legal profession has been deeply influenced by my upbringing in a family of legal practitioners. Growing up, I was inspired by my father, a senior lawyer, whose interactions with clients and insightful advice amplified my interest in law. Despite this early fascination, my enthusiasm for a legal career waned as I matured. However, tragedy struck during my teenage years with the loss of my father, compelling me to carry forward his legacy.
Driven by a newfound sense of purpose, I chose to pursue a career in law. Although my initial interest was in corporate law, I began my journey by gaining foundational knowledge in a senior lawyer’s chamber after completing my law degree. During this time, I actively sought opportunities in the corporate legal sphere. It took nearly a year of persistent effort before I secured a position in a corporate setting, marking the beginning of my corporate legal career.
What motivated you to transition from practicing law in the courtroom to focusing on corporate legal operations and compliance management?
Transitioning to a career in corporate law was a deliberate choice driven by the desire for a more multifaceted and impactful legal role. Unlike traditional courtroom practice, corporate law offers a diverse range of responsibilities that extend beyond litigation. As a corporate legal professional, my role involves advising businesses on a wide array of legal matters, including contract negotiation, intellectual property rights, mergers and acquisitions, compliance, and regulatory affairs.
One of the most compelling aspects of corporate law is the exposure to new avenues in the legal field. Corporate lawyers often work closely with other departments within an organization, such as finance, human resources, and operations, gaining valuable insights into the inner workings of businesses. This multidisciplinary approach not only broadens one’s legal expertise but also provides a holistic understanding of how legal issues intersect with various aspects of business operations.
Moreover, working in corporate law offers the opportunity to engage with multinational corporations, which can be both challenging and rewarding. Multinational coverage exposes corporate lawyers to a diverse range of legal frameworks and cultural nuances, requiring them to adapt their legal strategies to different jurisdictions. This global perspective not only enhances one’s legal acumen but also fosters a greater appreciation for cultural diversity and international business practices.
Overall, making a career in corporate law provides a unique blend of intellectual challenge, professional growth, and global exposure, making it an exciting and fulfilling choice for legal professionals seeking to expand their horizons.
With over 15 years of experience in corporate legal affairs, what are some of the key challenges you’ve encountered, and how have you overcome them?
With over 15 years of experience in corporate legal affairs, I have encountered many challenges, ups and downs. I have failed sometimes and have successfully navigated numerous challenges as well, each of which has contributed to my growth and development as a legal professional. One of the key strategies I’ve employed to overcome these challenges is a commitment to continuous learning and improvement. I make it a priority to stay abreast of recent laws, regulatory changes, and emerging trends in the field of law. This proactive approach not only helps me anticipate and address potential challenges but also allows me to provide valuable insights and guidance to my colleagues, stakeholders and team members.
Another important aspect of my approach to corporate legal affairs is effective people management. As a corporate lawyer, I have often worked closely with colleagues from diverse backgrounds and disciplines, as well as external stakeholders such as regulators and legal advisors. Building and maintaining strong relationships based on trust and respect is essential in this role. I strive to be a collaborative and supportive team member, while also providing leadership and guidance when needed.
Additionally, my experience has taught me the importance of adaptability and resilience in the face of challenges. Corporate legal affairs can be unpredictable, and being able to quickly pivot and find creative solutions is crucial. I approach each challenge with a positive mindset and a willingness to learn from every experience, which has helped me grow both personally and professionally.
In summary, my approach to corporate legal affairs is grounded in continuous learning, effective people management, and adaptability. By staying abreast of legal developments, building strong relationships, and approaching challenges with a positive mindset, I have been able to overcome obstacles and achieve success in my career.
You have extensive experience in negotiating various types of legal documents such as Master Services Agreements, NDAs, and SOWs. Could you share some strategies you employ during negotiations to ensure favorable outcomes for your organization?
Negotiating legal documents such as Master Services Agreements (MSAs), Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs), and Statements of Work (SOWs) requires a strategic approach to ensure favorable outcomes for the organization. Here are some key strategies I employ during negotiations:
Thorough Preparation: Before entering negotiations, I do my own research and analysis of the terms and conditions involved. This includes understanding the organization’s objectives, what’s on stake, identifying potential risks, and familiarizing myself with relevant laws and regulations.
Clear Communication: Effective communication is essential during negotiations. I ensure that all parties involved understand the organization’s priorities and concerns, and I strive to maintain open and transparent communication throughout the process.
Focus on Win-Win Solutions: I approach negotiations with a collaborative mindset, seeking to find mutually beneficial solutions for all parties involved. This involves identifying common interests and exploring creative options to address any differences.
Flexibility and Adaptability: Negotiations often require flexibility and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. I remain open to alternative proposals and am willing to adjust my approach to achieve a favorable outcome.
Attention to Detail: During negotiations, I pay close attention to the details of the agreement, ensuring that all terms are clearly defined and align with the organization’s objectives and risk appetite. This includes reviewing and revising drafts of the agreement to address any ambiguities or potential issues.
Seeking Legal Advice: When necessary, I seek input from legal advisors to ensure that the organization’s interests are protected and that the agreement complies with relevant laws and regulations.
Maintaining Professionalism: Throughout the negotiation process, I maintain a professional demeanor and focus on building positive relationships with the other parties involved. This helps to facilitate productive discussions and achieve favorable outcomes.
By employing these strategies, I have been able to successfully negotiate various types of legal documents, ensuring that the organization’s interests are protected and that agreements are fair and equitable for all parties involved.
Given your expertise in compliance and risk management, could you elaborate on how you handle due diligence processes, particularly concerning financial irregularities and regulatory compliance such as FCPA and Anti-Money Laundering laws?
In my previous roles, I have learnt that handling due diligence processes, especially concerning financial irregularities and regulatory compliance such as the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) laws, requires a meticulous approach.
Comprehensive Review: One needs to begin by conducting a thorough review of the organization’s operations, financial records, and business practices. This helps identify potential areas of risk and ensures compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
Risk Assessment: Based on the review, we need to conduct a risk assessment to prioritize areas that require further investigation. This includes assessing the likelihood and potential impact of financial irregularities or compliance violations.
Due Diligence Procedures: I implemented due diligence procedures to gather relevant information and verify the accuracy of information provided my various solutions. This may involve reviewing contracts, financial statements, and other relevant documents.
FCPA Compliance: For FCPA compliance, I ensure that the organization has adequate policies and procedures in place to prevent bribery and corruption. This includes conducting due diligence on third-party partners and implementing training programs for employees.
AML Compliance: For AML compliance, I verify that the organization has effective controls in place to detect and prevent money laundering activities. This includes conducting customer due diligence and transaction monitoring, as well as complying with reporting requirements.
Documentation and Reporting: Throughout the due diligence process, I maintain detailed documentation of my findings and actions taken. This documentation is essential for compliance purposes and can help demonstrate the organization’s commitment to regulatory compliance.
Continuous Monitoring: Finally, I recommend implementing a system for continuous monitoring of compliance with FCPA, AML, and other relevant regulations. This helps ensure that any potential issues are identified and addressed promptly.
Leveraging due diligence platforms like Dun and Bradstreet, LexisNexis, and others is crucial for a thorough due diligence process. These platforms provide access to a wealth of information and data that can aid in the identification of potential risks and compliance issues. They enable us to conduct comprehensive background checks on third parties, including vendors, suppliers, and business partners, ensuring they align with the organization’s standards and comply with relevant regulations. These platforms also help in identifying politically exposed persons (PEPs) and assessing government linkages, which are critical in mitigating risks associated with corruption and bribery.
Additionally, aligning with the World Economic Forum’s guidelines on aspects like FCPA, AML, PEP, government linkages, geopolitical risks, and reputational damages is essential for maintaining a robust compliance program. These guidelines provide a framework for identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks, ensuring that the organization operates ethically and in accordance with global standards.
In conclusion, the use of due diligence platforms and alignment with the World Economic Forum’s guidelines are essential components of an effective compliance and risk management strategy. By following these steps and leveraging these tools and frameworks, I can ensure that the organization remains compliant with relevant regulations and maintains a strong reputation in the market.
Throughout your career, you’ve managed contract databases and utilized various tools for risk management. How do you stay updated with the latest technologies and methodologies in this field?
Staying updated with the latest technologies and methodologies in contract management and risk management is crucial for ensuring efficiency and effectiveness in these areas.
Continuous Learning: I actively seek out opportunities for continuous learning, such as attending webinars, workshops, and conferences focused on contract management, risk management, and related technologies. These events provide insights into emerging trends and best practices in the field.
Professional Networks: I try to maintain a strong network of professionals in the legal and compliance fields, including peers, mentors, and industry experts. Engaging with these networks allows me to exchange ideas, share experiences, and stay updated on the latest developments.
Industry Publications: I regularly read industry publications, journals, and blogs that cover contract management, risk management, and technology in the legal field. This helps me stay informed about new tools, methodologies, and case studies.
Vendor Updates: I keep in touch with vendors and providers of contract management and risk management tools to stay updated on new features, updates, and best practices.
Training: I pursue relevant training in contract management, risk management, and related technologies to enhance my skills and stay current with industry standards.
Can you share an instance where your strategic legal planning and risk management techniques helped prevent significant revenue leakages or mitigate potential legal issues for your organization?
In my previous roles, I was involved in many deals where we had to strategically plan, use contract management platforms, and risk management techniques in preventing significant revenue leakages and mitigate potential legal issues for the organization.
This involves end to end contract management including drafting, redlining, negotiating, and executing and obligation management of complex contracts with a key client/supplier for the provision of critical services. I had to recognize the potential risks involved, conduct a thorough risk assessment and identified several areas that required careful attention/monitoring.
Firstly, we have to negotiate the terms and conditions that are well within the risk appetite of the organization and are capable of being mitigated. Including clear payment terms, performance metrics, and dispute resolution mechanisms. Second, we need to utilize a contract management platform to track key milestones and obligations under the contract, ensuring compliance and minimizing the risk of breaches. Third, I implemented periodic reviews of the contract performance to identify and address any issues proactively.
As a result of these efforts, we were able to prevent significant revenue leakages by ensuring that we met all obligations and delivered the services as agreed. Additionally, our proactive approach to risk management helped us avoid potential legal disputes and costly litigation.
As someone who has worked in fast-paced, high-pressure environments, how do you maintain your composure and make effective decisions under such conditions?
Maintaining composure and making effective decisions in fast-paced, high-pressure environments is essential for any legal professional.
Prioritize and Organize: I prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance, ensuring that critical issues are addressed first. I also organize my workload using tools such as to-do lists and calendars to stay on track.
Stay Calm and Focused: I try to remain calm under pressure by staying positive, and focusing on the task at hand. This helps me think more clearly and make better decisions.
Seek Input: I consult with colleagues, mentors, or subject matter experts to gather different perspectives and insights. This helps me make more informed decisions and consider alternative approaches.
Manage Time Effectively: I allocate time, setting aside dedicated periods for tasks that require focus and concentration. This helps prevent feeling overwhelmed and ensures that tasks are completed efficiently.
Adaptability: I remain flexible and adaptable, willing to adjust my plans and strategies as the situation evolves. This allows me to respond quickly to changing circumstances and make timely decisions.
Learn from Mistakes: I view mistakes as learning opportunities, reflecting on what went wrong and how I can improve in the future. This mindset helps me grow and become more resilient in high-pressure environments.
Self-Care: I prioritize self-care activities such as exercise, playing cricket, going for a walk, listening to music, mindfulness, and adequate sleep to maintain my physical and mental well-being. This helps me stay energized and focused during demanding periods.
Could you highlight the importance of continuous improvement in contracts management and compliance practices, based on your experience in streamlining processes and establishing governance structures?
Continuous improvement in contracts management and compliance practices is crucial for ensuring efficiency, reducing risks, and achieving organizational goals. Based on my experience in streamlining processes and establishing governance structures, I have seen firsthand the benefits of this approach.
Efficiency: Continuous improvement helps identify and eliminate inefficiencies in contracts management and compliance processes. By streamlining workflows, standardizing procedures, and leveraging technology, organizations can reduce manual efforts and save time and resources.
Risk Reduction: Regular review and enhancement of compliance practices help mitigate risks associated with regulatory non-compliance, contract disputes, and legal issues. By staying updated with regulatory changes and best practices, organizations can proactively address potential risks.
Cost Savings: Continuous improvement leads to cost savings by optimizing resources and reducing the likelihood of fines, penalties, and legal fees associated with non-compliance. By implementing efficient processes and controls, organizations can achieve cost-effective contracts management and compliance practices.
Enhanced Governance: Establishing governance structures ensures accountability, transparency, and consistency in contracts management and compliance practices. By defining roles and responsibilities, setting clear objectives, and implementing robust monitoring mechanisms, organizations can improve decision-making and compliance outcomes.
Stakeholder Confidence: Continuous improvement demonstrates a commitment to excellence and compliance, enhancing stakeholder confidence in the organization’s operations. By regularly reviewing and enhancing contracts management and compliance practices, organizations can build trust with stakeholders and maintain a positive reputation.
In conclusion, continuous improvement in contracts management and compliance practices is essential for organizations to achieve efficiency, reduce risks, and enhance governance. By adopting a proactive approach to process enhancement and governance establishment, organizations can achieve sustainable success in contracts management and compliance.
Lastly, what advice would you offer to fresh graduates aspiring to pursue a career in law, especially those interested in corporate legal operations and compliance management?
My advice to fresh graduates aspiring to pursue a career in law, especially in corporate legal operations and compliance management:
Gain Practical Experience: Seek internships or entry-level positions in law firms, corporate legal departments, or government agencies to gain practical experience and exposure to different areas of law. Try to focus and learn the practical aspects of the law.
Develop a Strong Foundation: Focus on building a strong foundation in legal principles and practices during your studies. Pay attention to courses related to corporate law, compliance, and risk management.
Stay Updated: Stay informed about the latest developments in the legal field, especially in areas relevant to corporate legal operations and compliance management. Subscribe to legal publications, attend seminars, read books and participate in professional development programs.
Network: Build a professional network by attending networking events, joining professional organizations, and connecting with professionals in the field. Networking can help you learn about job opportunities and gain valuable insights from experienced professionals.
Enhance Your Skills: Develop skills that are important for a career in corporate legal operations and compliance management, such as attention to detail, analytical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills.
Consider Further Education: Consider pursuing further education, such as a master’s degree or certifications in areas like compliance or risk management, to enhance your knowledge and skills in corporate legal operations.
Be Open to Learning: Be open to learning from your experiences and be willing to take on new challenges. A career in law is constantly evolving, so it’s important to be adaptable and willing to grow professionally.
By following these tips, you can start building a successful career in corporate legal operations and compliance management. Remember to stay motivated, persevere through challenges, and continue learning and growing in your field.
Could you please walk us through your journey from your early days in law college to becoming a Head of Legal at Thermax Limited? What were some of the challenges you faced when you first started your career in law, and how did you overcome them?
I am a first-generation lawyer and the decision to pursue law was a completely personal call. From an early age, I developed a special interest in legal subjects. After completing my 12th, without any second thought, I was admitted for a 5 (five) year BA(Law)LLB course with North Bengal University, Department of Law. I was an active student during my law college days and used to take initiative and participated in all events including moot courts, sports, and cultural events. During the 3rd year, I developed a special interest in the law of Jurisprudence. As we had limited resources during our college days, digital education was far from reality during the late 90’s, we used to spend long hours in our law department library reading and preparing notes on various subjects.
To begin a career in legal, the first challenge is to get into a decent chamber of a senior advocate. Those days legal had very limited career opportunities and being from a small town in Darjeeling District, West Bengal, there was no other option but to start practicing in District Court immediately post completing of LLB. I started my career as a practising advocate under the guidance of the late Shri. Sunil Sarkar, in Siliguri Sub-Divisional Court and Darjeeling District Court handling civil disputes related to properties, etc. In his chamber, I learnt the art of drafting pleadings, cross-examination and trial. To gain exposure on the professional front, in 2003, I moved to Delhi and started working with a Corporate Law Firm, Law Combine Advocates. During my Law combine days, I handled legal work for major MNCs and focused on litigation, commercial contracts, part of the M & A team, IPR and real estate. To have experience in the corporate side, In 2008, I decided to switch and joined a real estate company in Bangalore and gained experience in commercial built-to-suit arrangements. Thereafter, I worked with a FMCG giant heading legal for their export division, managing international contracts and disputes.
In 2014, I moved to Pune and worked with an engine manufacturing company and in 2022 joined Thermax Limited as Head of Legal which is my current designation.
For a fresh law graduate, the biggest challenge is where to start and how to start. I was fortunate enough that the Senior’s Chamber I joined at the beginning of my career, gave me a decent amount of work to handle. He used to guide me as a mentor. The more I worked, the faster I was able to get adjusted in this profession. During my court practice days, even when my matters were not listed before the Court, I used to spend hours sitting in open courts watching different proceedings, arguments made by the counsels, court observations, and verdicts. I also used to read a lot. I used to read the entire judgement, doing my research on different laws dealing with different subjects, going through old, executed contracts to understand the transaction and the issues to be addressed in those kinds of transactions. More I focused on work and learning; I realized all the challenges are dealt with over time.
Transitioning from practicing as an advocate to assuming leadership roles within legal departments of corporations like Thermax Limited involves a significant shift. What inspired you to make this transition, and how has this journey influenced your approach to legal practice and leadership within organizations?
This was not an overnight shift or transition. If you go through my career path the entire transition was step by step and with constant efforts. It was planned and executed accordingly. I believe if you can’t run then walk, if you can’t walk then at least crawl but keep moving forward. All the changes I made in my career are only with a view of learning new things which is very important for a lawyer. Shifting from a small sub-divisional court practice to a Delhi Corporate law firm practice is only for getting more exposure and learning. Similarly, switching from one industry to another during my corporate journey is also to gain experience and knowledge of different laws and practices applicable to such industries. This journey of continuous learning, curiosity, eagerness, and developing new skill sets brought me where I am today. Therefore, I will say eagerness to learn new things, getting exposure to different legal areas, and curiosity to learn about different industries and applicable laws and practices, inspired me to make this transition. Another factor that inspired me to move from legal practice to a leadership role in corporate is to make an impact at a larger level. During practice days, I used to give my opinion and advice on a specific legal matter. I never learned how my opinions and advice impact or influence an organization’s culture and policies. With an intent to make an impact, bring a difference and influence all the stakeholders, I decided to move to a corporate leadership role to use my experience and knowledge to make a positive impact on the business and organization practices. Over the period, while working in different formats, and handling different kinds of legal issues, I realized that legal practice is too wide and large. The more I learned about one area, there are several other new areas came up for further learning. My exposure to different formats and working in different industries contributed a lot to my development as a lawyer and made me adequately competent to handle any kind of legal issues or at least know how to find a solution for an issue not dealt with in the past.
Your profile highlights your expertise in areas like Mergers & Acquisitions, Contract Management, and Litigation & Arbitration. Among these, which aspect of legal affairs do you find most engaging or challenging, and why?
It all depends upon the complexity of a matter which makes it challenging. I have come across several complex M&A transaction structures, high-stake commercial contracts and complex litigation and arbitration which were too challenging and engaging. Hence, it will be unfair to claim any specific area as engaging or challenging as all the areas are complex, vast, and challenging. Even if you insist on naming one area then considering the nature and complexity of the dispute, sometimes I find managing Litigation and Arbitration is most engaging and challenging. For handling and managing litigation, one must consider all applicable laws, specific sections, various court precedents, and all facts and documentation involved in the dispute. Though the general perception is that litigation & arbitration are handled by external counsels, however, to enable the external counsel to effectively handle any litigation and arbitration, it’s an in-house counsel who provides all the briefing and documentation related to the case. A minor miss can have a major impact on the outcome. Managing legal expenses, while expediting the proceeding is another challenge in litigation and arbitration.
You’ve been recognized with multiple awards and accolades throughout your career. Can you share a particularly memorable achievement or recognition that holds a special place in your heart?
All achievements and awards are special for me as they came at different times in my career. The recognition that I receive in-house has a special place in my heart as it shows that my work is making some impact on the business and it’s a direct recognition from my internal stakeholders. Also, the team awards that I have received till date are also very special for me. In the past, I have received team awards as “Best Support to Business Initiatives”, “Most Innovative Legal Team of the Year” and “Best Enabling Function”. All these team awards represent that we as a team are able to provide effective support to our businesses and in return we have been acknowledged and appreciated. But to answer your question, The “Best Enabling Function” award received during the first year of my job with Thermax holds a special place in my heart as I was new in the Organisation and was building an impactful relationship between the Legal Department and Business.
In addition to your professional achievements, we’d love to know more about your personal interests and hobbies outside of the legal realm. How do you unwind and rejuvenate after a busy day at work?
I like to participate voluntarily in teaching activities, especially teaching underprivileged kids. I have been associated with a few non-profit organizations and I like spending my weekends helping these NGOs with different activities from teaching to helping the students in getting prepared for their next level of academics and career.
Listening to music and playing guitar have been my favourite pastimes to unwind myself after a busy day at work. In the past, I had our band with a few of my friends and we spent our free weekends and holidays performing at open clubs. I love to attend music concerts and shows.
When I feel tired after months of work, I like to unwind by long cross-country drives with my family to places I have never visited, exploring everything about that place from their culture to their staple diet. Talking to unknown people is an immense pleasure and a beautiful experience.
Given your extensive experience, what advice would you give to the current generation aspiring to pursue a career in law? What skills or attributes do you think are crucial for success in this field today?
For the current generation, my advice is that there are a lot of opportunities in the legal domain. Over the years, different forms of practices have developed. There are different legal areas to excel and specialize in and a lot of learning opportunities around. Students who are still pursuing law, please take your moot courts and court visits sincerely and develop a habit of reading. Law is not as easy as it seems to be and for every lawyer, it is important to learn something every day. A lawyer should always have a room for learning. Understanding a law and implementation of law are two different things so take advantage of every real-life internship you can, so you can figure out what kind of lawyer you wish to be.
It’s my request to young guns, please develop a habit of reading and keep learning new things. There are no shortcuts in the legal profession. Online updates and snapshots are okay to get the update but please don’t miss to read those new laws, latest landmark judgements, articles, etc. Have patience, good things take time. Nobody achieves success, knowledge, and experience overnight. All these things take time and constant effort, and hard work will take you to the right places. Don’t expect immediate results in our profession and always remember that your today’s action will have a reaction after a few years. Be humble, meticulous, and good in your research and analytics.
Given your experience in handling litigations and arbitrations, what do you believe are the critical factors for successful dispute resolution, especially in today’s dynamic business environment?
The knowledge of Business and Law is very important for a Lawyer in today’s dynamic business environment. Unless we have exposure to both we can’t take the best foot forward and guide our Organisation. Dispute resolution requires you to have a win-win approach for the Organisation. You can’t be too stringent on your approach and have a balanced view of the dispute that is in hand. Be meticulous and have the eye of an eagle regarding attention to detail. An active and effective collaboration between legal and business is of utmost importance for successful dispute resolution. Any dispute can be handled based on evidence on record; therefore, strong documentation and record keeping are of utmost importance to resolve any dispute successfully. There should be a problem-solving approach to resolve any dispute, it will save lots of cost and time for both sides. Timely resolution of disputes is another factor to be considered. In most of the disputes, the purpose of getting into dispute resolution frustrates if it is not concluded in a time bound manner.
You pursued management development programs from IIEM in 2017 and IIM in 2019. What motivated you to undertake these courses, and how do you believe they have contributed to your growth as a legal professional? Additionally, what are your thoughts on the importance of continuous learning and further education, such as pursuing masters or other specialized courses, in the legal field?
Opting for courses from IIEM and IIM is part of my continuous learning process. Through these courses, I have improved my knowledge and exposure to international trade laws as well as improved my leadership skills. Continuous learning and further education are very important parts of any professional, especially lawyers. Law is a dynamic subject and legal professionals need to be up to mark in all day-to-day changes and evolution in the subject. Continuous learning is the ongoing expansion of a person’s knowledge and skill sets. It is not only for the development of new skills and knowledge but also for reinforcing what has been previously learned. A lawyer or legal professional needs to pursue higher education and specialized courses to adapt to changing legal trends, stay competitive and deliver exceptional services. By actively pursuing higher education and specialized courses, legal professionals can refine their skills and position themselves as leaders in their respective practice areas.
Throughout your career, you’ve undoubtedly encountered a wide array of legal challenges and victories. If you could go back in time and give one piece of advice to your younger self as you embarked on this journey, what would it be and why?
Most of us desire to be accepted and liked, but the reality is that you can’t please everyone. It took years and years to get here, but knowing what others think doesn’t matter, disengaging from those who are not humble, practicing self-development and learning new areas of law are some of the best things I have ever done for myself. Do not seek validation in the form of other people’s opinions. Lead with kindness and treat people well. To be honest – don’t be afraid to speak your mind.
Your journey from college to becoming the Head of Legal at Noida International Airport is impressive. Could you share some of the key challenges you faced during your early career stages and how you overcame them to reach where you are today?
Being a first-generation lawyer, I never had the advantage of family connections or right mentors to guide in navigating the legal landscape and I must admit that I had lacked hands-on training as well that those who have a pedigree in the legal field, receive as a part of their daily routine.
Hence, I decided to overcome these limitations by focusing on my skills, knowledge and professionalism. I accepted internships without stipends, offered pro bono legal services to gain hands-on practical experience and aimed to build a reputation of being a thorough professional with integrity.
I ensured that I proactively network by attending legal seminars and conferences, keep engaging in online legal communities and join professional organizations to meet experienced lawyers and potential employers. In short, “perseverance” and “continuous efforts” are the two key words which have so far been working for me. Touchwood !!
Credit also goes to all those few kind people who understood my approach of working, that is, how I can contribute and bring value to the table and then there was no looking back for me.
What motivated you to transition from litigation to an in-house role, and how has this shift shaped your approach to legal challenges?
Making that decision was a significant career move. What mainly allured me to the in-house role was the opportunity to be an integral part of a company’s decision-making processes.
In order to have a more direct impact on business decisions, the legal function has to work very closely with the business teams and gain deep knowledge of the company’s operations, industry regulations, and strategic goals. I was very clear that this specialized knowledge is invaluable and provides a unique perspective when advising the company on legal matters.
As an in-house counsel, I got opportunities to be intimately involved in shaping and executing corporate strategies, negotiating contracts, managing litigation, and ensuring compliance. This level of involvement allowed me to see and understand the tangible results of the legal advice.
Further, during my litigation days, I realised that a lot of disputes were arising due to some ‘inattentions’ right at the documentation stage. That incited my curiosity about the critical role an in house can play in mitigating such risks right at the start such as making the documents robust enough to firstly prevent disputes from happening and if not then create a good defence.
Having worked with diverse organizations such as GMR, Accenture, Alstom, and now Noida International Airport, could you share a memorable experience or lesson from each phase of your career that significantly influenced your professional growth?
In fact, all the places where I have worked so far have taught me the importance of self-awareness and emotional intelligence. Technically they may offer different things to learn (specific to each sector) but a few common things that I absorbed at all such places is that it is very important to understand the Company’s culture. Any initiatives, external interactions and/or negotiation strategy must be aligned with the company’s culture, work environment and company policies.
I also learnt that productivity is directly proportional to the extent of empowerment. Once I became a part of the leadership group, I realised that empowerment to take decisions is absolutely crucial. Hence, while accepting a new role, I check on the mandates I would be allocated with, without fail.
On the technical front, organisations such as Amplus (Petronas Group) and EverEnviro (EverSource owned) helped me build a strong business acumen which is very critical for in-house resources in order to enable them to play a strategic role in the business decision-making process.
I developed a solid understanding of risk management and operational strategies to effectively contribute to the company’s goals at most of the places I worked at. Further, I got tremendous exposure in the area of framing and administering “compliance” which is especially a challenging area. A change in one aspect, such as corporate governance or any policy or even key managerial personnel, can trigger requirements in multiple entities. As the number of entities and jurisdictions involved rises, so does the risk of non-compliance. I got hands-on experience in project financing for Alstom, Amplus and EverEnviro entities. I remember some very challenging but interesting days from the complex phase of the Amplus acquisition by Petronas, where I lead the Amplus in-house team which handled the complex phases of the acquisition transaction (with adequate support from the external counsels), for the Indian leg of the said transaction.
Alstom provided me a platform where I handled some very high-stake transactions such as the transfer of entire transport business by way of slump sale within Alstom entities; It involved extensive due diligence of the existing records, reviewing and drafting the share purchase agreement, the Business Transfer Agreements, letters to the Customers informing them about this transaction, Assignment and Assumption Agreement etc.
There have been some instances where law firms/external support supporting us with transactions cited a case law to prove a point and incidentally, those specific cases turned out to be not only steered from the conception and handled by me (including briefing to the senior counsel etc.) but also managed to get favourable orders therein. The reactions that I received from the law firms once I told them about it, was priceless and its something I feel very proud of.
You’ve navigated complex transactions and legal landscapes in industries ranging from aviation to waste management. What unique challenges and rewards do you find in working across such varied sectors, and how do you adapt your legal expertise to each industry’s nuances?
That’s right! I have worked across different sectors and therefore I think am rightly placed to humbly disagree with a common notion specific to the legal field that one must focus on specialising in one dedicated sphere. My experience tells me that working with different sectors and organisations helps bring in ductility in the approach to handle different set of tasks. I find myself in a better position to handle a diverse range of legal issues and adapt quickly to the unique demands of each sector, multi-task, and work collaboratively with cross-functional teams.
GMR, Alstom and Noida International Airport helped me gain an insight into the challenges and nuances of working on government contracts and public procurement. Dealing with government contracts is very different from how one negotiates a private contract. Considering the limited room for negotiations in case of the former, the focus is mainly on how to internally mitigate the risk to the maximum extent possible. That’s a very interesting area which provided me with hands-on experience on risk management as an important tool for lawyers and managing complex projects, providing practical advice, and collaborating with clients. Accenture and Amplus (Petronas Group), on the other hand, provided me a platform where I could build a strong business acumen which is very critical for in-house resources in order to enable them to play a strategic role in the business decision-making process.
As it is with changes happening almost on a daily basis such as advent of AI, change in the tax framework, introduction or restructuring of several legislations have let legal teams under intensifying pressure to meet new demands and match the pace of business change. Hence, agility and wider exposure has become critical tools for the general counsels and their teams to better support the broadening spectrum of risk, compliance, governance, operations and regulatory issues, as well as the need to support the business in the execution of its strategy. If you ask me, the future belongs to the generalists with the role of specialists becoming very limited as compared to the present time.
In your role at Noida International Airport, you’re contributing to the development of a greenfield airport. Can you share some insights into the legal intricacies and challenges involved in such large-scale infrastructure projects, and how you ensure compliance while fostering growth?
With any large-scale infrastructure projects or to be specific a Public-Private-Partnership (PPP), one of the biggest challenges is having no scope of negotiations when almost all PPP concessions usually have a term of about thirty (30) years. Running a project of that scale for such a long period on the same terms and conditions is not pragmatic and a major reason for the imbalance that such projects face from time to time. I am not suggesting for a platform to re-negotiate however, public sectors must provide some comfort to the private parties to accommodate events such as prices going up and imports becoming difficult due to for eg. say this Ukrain war. Although there are a lot of changes that are happening where the public sector is becoming sensitive about the day-to-day challenges private sectors have to face while executing the PPP projects, I feel we still have some miles to cover before the former becomes comfortable with the idea that it is okay for the private sector to make some profits. This fundamental understanding will go a long way to regain and/or strengthen investors’ confidence in the PPP projects.
Specifically in the case of Greenfield projects, there are some construction related risks such as physical unexpected events that may occur during construction, which can lead to cost and time overruns. Although concessionaires try to hedge these risks by taking security packages from their contractors and sub-concessionaires, the problem with this approach is the timing. For instance, in most cases, one becomes aware of a technical issue only when the impact of the issue may have consumed a good portion of the security package.
The best way to tackle such risks in Greenfield projects is to focus more on immediate security than freezing those for future. Some of the effective measures to manage this risk are to have wide supervision capability of the works during construction and to have termination clauses negotiated in a way that will not put the project at risk in case of construction delay or technical challenge, and that will give enough room for investors to cure before it is too late (e.g. incrementing resources to the works, penalizing the EPC contractor for any delay, even within the longstop date).
One more risk which is personally very close to my interest is “points of friction” when it comes to risk allocation. As everyone is aware that at the heart of every PPP transaction is the allocation of risks between the public and private partners. Hence, the risks should be fairly and justly distributed between the partners. A lot of background work is already undergoing at the Government’s level to fill in these gaps.
You’ve amassed a wealth of experience over 15 years in the legal field. What motivated you to pursue a Master’s in Business Law at this stage of your career, and how has it enriched your professional perspective?
It was the course structure and content which caught my attention. All the legal themes forming part of this course are more than relevant to my day-to-day scope of activities such as Contracts, IPR, Investment and Environmental Law, Taxation and Banking. I was longing to learn better and came across this course at the right time. It definitely equips those who sign up for it better, with deeper insight into legal issues that may impact / affect their daily work.
You’ve been involved in significant corporate restructuring, including the strategic sale of Amplus to Petronas. What key legal considerations come into play during such transactions, and how do you ensure a smooth legal transition for all parties involved?
I believe a good hold on the regulatory framework surrounding such transactions is a must. For example: it needs to be ascertained if the deal is possible under the Competition law, FEMA (in case foreign elements are involved), SEBI (primarily for listed companies involved) etc., as a first step. Regulatory framework and all permissions required therein are extremely significant and can make or break a deal since the cost of some regulatory approvals may drastically affect the commercial viability of such transactions. Moreover, overlooking a necessary approval could render the resulting deal void or voidable, nullifying the efforts of the parties.
Thorough diligence is equally important where depending on what it reveals, the buyer can negotiate on reduction of the price or constrain the target to provide more robust warranties etc. in order for the deal to continue.
Compliance is another very critical area. The licensing requirements, approval status etc. play a key role in deciding the fate of the deal and definitely the pricing. Nature of the ongoing or potential litigations, terms and conditions of the lending contracts etc. are another area of importance which covers the lawyer’s scope in such transactions.
Open communication channels amongst all parties involved, including employees, customers, suppliers, and investors; assertiveness when it comes to seeking critical information and asking tough questions; solution-oriented approach to resolve deadlocks and uncomfortable situations; and meticulous integration planning which is the backbone of a successful acclimatisation are some of the key traits to ensure a seamless transition in case of any corporate restructuring.
Your career has shifted from being focused on personal milestones to leaving a lasting legacy. Could you elaborate on this change in perspective and share your thoughts on the impact a professional can have beyond projects and numbers?
Well, I think “legacy” is a big word when it comes to my career trajectory. I am far away from that but yes, I do aspire to and take each steps towards achieving a reputation where people remember me as a lawyer of an “indomitable character and integrity” and not just for working on a few good projects and saving an X amount of money for a company. Further, I focus on simplifying the complex. Being an in house I mostly deal with non-legal stakeholders on a daily basis who neither know nor are interested in knowing the legalese. Translating the complexities of law in simple and practical language for them requires tutoring myself as a student on a daily basis when it comes to articulating my thought process. As a result, I get approached with a conviction that things will get addressed.
A legal professional, at least during the initial stages of his/her career, shall focus more on intellectual growth (as the requirement to be educated on current developments that affect the law is a must) and clarity of mind (as it gets trained due to constant thinking of how to apply a law to an apt situation) more than designations and monetary compensation. This profession is one of the few noble ones which helps one develop an overall personality and at the same time provides an opportunity to shape up the society as well. One should leverage that to the fullest extent possible. That will help them leave a lasting legacy.
Beyond your professional accomplishments, what are your personal interests or hobbies that bring balance to your life outside of the legal realm? How do you unwind from the demands of a challenging and dynamic legal career?
By focusing on the objective. The work has to be done and no matter how much the pressure is, if one solely focuses on how to get it implemented, it becomes easier to deal with it and avoid the politics around it.
Also, in order to avoid the negative effects of chronic stress and burnout, I disconnect myself from work and take some time off to replenish and return to the pre-stress level of functioning. This recovery process requires “switching off” from work by having periods of time when I neither engage in work-related activities, nor think about work.
Work-life balance is very important for me, and it would not have been possible without my extremely supporting family. They have been with me through thick and thin and an integral part of my journey!! Hence, I try to do whatever I can to squeeze out as much time for them as possible, such as I try to finish a lot of work on my commute so that I can save a few hours there and be at home in time to spend some quality time with them. Additionally, I take a few days off every 4 to 5 months to spend some time exclusively with family.
It would not be fair if I don’t give due credit to some of my very supportive colleagues. Good colleagues and a supportive team are an asset. They will take care of you when you are down or not on the best days at work. So such support functions are a direct blessing from God !! Take my word on it!! 😊
My leisure time gets consumed in reading books, watching a good movie / documentary and my perpetual stressbuster is discussing politics. I really enjoy having a good conversation around how the geo-political landscape is turning out to be.
I ensure that I take one hour at least everyday when I only introspect, listen to music and read an article/book.
As someone who has worked internationally and dealt with compliance on a global scale, how do you stay updated on the ever-evolving legal landscape, and what advice do you have for legal professionals aiming for a global perspective in their careers?
To be updated about the latest legal developments and on a real time basis is not just a choice; it’s a necessity. I try to stay informed with the timely updates with help of professional networks, relevant law firm practice group newsletters/updates that I have signed up for (i.e. the firms regularly provide guidance on legislative and regulatory changes), and by following relevant industry experts, law firms, and other thought leaders on LinkedIn who focuses on regulatory updates and compliance matters. Invest in your knowledge by participating in seminars, conferences, or web-based training sessions that offer guidance on the implementation of new regulations. Alternatively, review professional summaries to ensure you understand key aspects like involved parties, prerequisites, due dates, and penalties. Knowledge is the cornerstone of compliance.
For those who are aiming high, I would like to make one thing very clear that there are no clear rules of how to operate in the legal industry. On the other hand, unwritten rules are plenty in number! In order to achieve a global reach it is very important to have a global mindset to start with. By global mindset I don’t mean being able to do things but more about the ability to understand the complexities and nuances of global legal frameworks and environment, for eg., to follow, extract and adapt the best practices from other geographies, to be able to understand and tab on the trade-offs between local requirements and global standardisation.
Can you take us through the decision that inspired you to pursue Law, and were there specific experiences during your college years that solidified your choice? Additionally, could you share some insights into the challenges and learning experiences you faced after graduating and entering the professional world?
I come from a family of lawyers. My maternal grandfather transitioned from being an advocate to an actor, my maternal aunt served as a district judge, and my mother currently practices as an advocate at the Madras High Court. Witnessing their successful professional journeys inspired me to proactively pursue a career in law.
Upon entering college, my conviction deepened as I realized that a legal career is not merely a job but a contribution to every aspect of the economy and decision-making on a broader scale. After graduation, the corporate world presented a significantly broader spectrum of challenges compared to my college education. The requirements were practical, and the expected results were focused on solutions. The corporate arena demands legal professionals to be integral to the success story, acting as the missing piece of the puzzle and more of an enabler than merely identifying legal gaps.
As a newcomer to the corporate world, I found myself needing to unlearn certain aspects of my college education to become a business enabler. This involves a shift from a focus on theoretical legal concepts to practical application, spanning areas such as contracts, negotiations, and risk mitigations.
Your journey in the legal field has been diverse, from handling technology law to medical devices and compliance. Can you share a pivotal moment or case that significantly shaped your career and approach to legal challenges?
Initially, my entry into this different vertical wasn’t a meticulously planned approach; rather, it stemmed from the pressing need to proactively comprehend numerous unknowns. The turning point occurred when the legacy company where I served as an in-house counsel decided to venture into the medical device division. In a global competition, the company achieved a significant milestone, further propelling its growth.
As we endeavoured to commercialize the medical devices, I found myself navigating through various legal and regulatory compliances, encountering escalating complexities ranging from licences to white labelling and obtaining necessary approvals from regulatory bodies. This pivotal experience crystallized the realization that commitment and resilience are pivotal exponential factors in shaping a successful legal career.
Given your expertise in Data Privacy Laws, could you share some insights into the evolving landscape of data protection and the challenges tech companies face in ensuring compliance, especially in a rapidly changing digital environment?
As the economy and services extend beyond borders, the same is true for the transcending nature of personal data. While data privacy laws within specific territories may appear intact, the implementation of jurisdictional laws and allied regulations poses a considerable challenge for mid-size companies. These organizations are required to allocate significant capital expenditure and manage increased operational costs while ensuring the seamless flow of cash within the company.
Regardless of size, companies engaged in handling data find themselves compelled to establish dedicated personnel or teams to meet the ever-growing demands of compliance. The imperative is to devise and operate within a common framework that aligns with data privacy laws, turning compliance into a strategic undertaking that necessitates synergies across various aspects of the business.
Your role often involves interpreting and providing guidance on various regulations. How do you stay updated on the ever-changing regulatory landscape, and what advice would you give to legal professionals aiming to navigate such complexities?
As a practice, I consistently recommend engaging in brainstorming sessions and actively seeking to comprehend legal and regulatory developments beyond the confines of my expertise. This approach serves as a valuable complement to mental modelling, allowing me to view problems or obstacles from a contrarian perspective. While staying updated on a need-to-know basis is an inherent aspect of a legal professional’s career, attempting to understand issues outside our comfort zone brings a renewed energy.
Breaking down complex problems into simpler steps and approaching them with a pragmatic mindset becomes a more achievable task when one actively explores challenges beyond their immediate area of expertise. This proactive stance not only fosters a deeper understanding of the legal landscape but also enhances problem-solving capabilities within a broader and more dynamic context.
Having worked as a Company Secretary, you’ve been deeply involved in complex acquisitions and cross-border entity structuring. Could you share an experience where your legal acumen played a crucial role in the success of such transactions?
I hold a special appreciation for a particular transaction where my role proved pivotal in the successful spin-off of two USA incorporated entities (Single Member LLC – S Sub-chapter Corporation). The key to this achievement lay in the careful drafting of an agreement, ensuring that the transfer of ownership of the subsidiary company was structured as a tax-free transfer.
This endeavour demanded more than just legal acumen; it required perseverance and the cultivation of a strong rapport, given the involvement of various stakeholders. The compounding effect of collaborative thought processes among stakeholders ultimately yielded a viable solution for the transaction. This experience highlighted the significance of effective communication, relationship-building, and strategic thinking in the legal profession, showcasing the broader skill set required beyond legal expertise alone.
In your role at WebEngage, how do you foster a legal and compliance culture within the organization, ensuring that teams across different functions understand and adhere to the legal framework?
Compared to my experiences with other companies, the legal and compliance culture at WebEngage is distinctive due to the global nature of its services, which span across various verticals. To navigate this diverse landscape, the Legal team at WebEngage adopts a two-pronged approach: process and provisioning.
Provisioning is viewed as an action taken with consensus on urgency and importance, serving as the foundation and building blocks for the overarching framework. It is a dynamic process that evolves with time and experience. Lessons learned, feedback, results, and glitches from provisioning activities become key factors shaping the continuous evolution of the Process, which is the legal and compliance framework underpinning all models and mechanisms.
Crucially, the Process is not bound by time and is designed to be ever evolving. The team at WebEngage acknowledges the importance of embracing change and learning from experiences. An innovative aspect of their approach is the implementation of Janusian thinking—a form of brainstorming that explores the anti-thesis from different perspectives, both within and across borders. This unique strategy aims to make the risk management process adaptable, breaking away from the notion that “one size fits all” and ensuring a nuanced, context-sensitive approach to legal and compliance matters.
Being a Certified Corporate Social Responsibility Professional, could you share your perspective on the role of legal professionals in driving corporate social responsibility initiatives, especially in the tech sector?
Regardless of the profession, my firm belief is that companies have a responsibility to contribute back to society which is complementing and supplementing various aspects of companies within our economy. As a legal professional, the awareness of societal concerns becomes an integral part of my thought process, influencing every action and reaction. Encouraging Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives from companies is something I highly endorse to.
The rationale behind this endorsement is that, next to governments, companies wield a substantial driving force in society. They possess the capacity for collective efforts and planned execution, operating with transparent processes when engaging in CSR initiatives. Notably, the technology sector in India, employing millions of individuals, stands out as a major player in this regard. The sector’s vast reach and influence make it a potent force for implementing CSR initiatives on a larger scale, contributing to the betterment of society as a whole.
Beyond your professional achievements, what are some personal interests or hobbies that you find yourself drawn to outside the legal realm? How do these activities contribute to your overall well-being and mindset?
As a personal interest, I have authored a book “JIVA SHAVA SHIVA” which has nothing to do with legal but exploring more into the unknown realm and self-enquiry in a spiritual sense. Apart from that I have trained in a few Martial Arts like WING CHUN, SILAMBAM, MUAY CHAIYYA, an ancient form of MUAY BORAN. I have synthesized this Martial Arts understanding into a new strategy called NITAU.
For college students aspiring to achieve professional success in the legal field, what advice would you give regarding the type of education, internships, or specific experiences that can contribute to their growth and set them on a path to excel in the legal profession?
My advice to freshers is to not specialize at the beginning of their careers. The idea is to cultivate a well-rounded foundation that allows for flexibility and adaptability in various legal contexts. Emphasizing the cultivation of a personalized approach to problem-solving suggests that there’s no one-size-fits-all solution in the legal field. This approach encourages individuals to develop their unique methods of addressing challenges, fostering creativity and adaptability.
Acknowledging that unique experiences and skills acquired throughout one’s career will shape the trajectory. The idea is that each experience contributes to the development of an individual’s expertise and guides them toward a suitable career path. Stressing the importance of approaching work with full commitment underscores the idea that success in the legal profession requires more than just technical proficiency.
Legal professionals are encouraged to act as enablers and solution providers, actively contributing to the success and positive outcomes of their clients or organizations. The holistic approach advocated combines legal expertise with the ability to facilitate and offer solutions. Legal professionals are seen not only as interpreters of the law but as integral contributors to the success story, acting as enablers in various aspects of decision-making. In summary, my advice is to promote a dynamic and adaptable mindset, encouraging legal professionals to embrace a variety of experiences, continually refine their skills, and approach their work with dedication and a solutions-oriented mindset. This holistic approach is essential for success and impact in the ever-evolving legal landscape.
You’ve also obtained certifications and completed higher education in fields such as Company Secretaryship, PGDMM, and PGDIB. In your experience, how have these additional qualifications enhanced your skill set and contributed to your professional growth? And, more broadly, what advice would you offer to students considering complementary certifications or higher education to broaden their career opportunities in the legal field?
Gaining knowledge is one aspect, but the real value lies in understanding how and where to apply it. My experience with additional qualifications enhanced my ability to comprehend the business language while representing the company underscores the practical importance of such efforts.
These qualifications may or may not always directly help, but the process of skill upgrading is not just about anticipation; it’s about broadening the circle of competency. This, in turn, transforms a legal professional from being merely an advisor to a multifaceted individual—acting as a strategist, enabler, and administrator.
My advice on pursuing complementary certifications should be with a realistic view on implementation and application that shall stand valuable. It aligns with the idea that skills should not be acquired in isolation but with a clear understanding of their practical utility in specific scenarios, ultimately making the legal professional more versatile and effective in their role.
