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With over 25 years of experience across various domains, looking back, what made you initially pursue a career in law and Company Secretaryship subsequently? Could you share some advice for young students who are pursuing multiple qualifications?
My journey into law was inspired by a passion for understanding the complexities of legal systems and their pivotal role in shaping societies. Early on, I recognized the importance of a strong legal foundation in effectively navigating intricate legal and regulatory frameworks. Adding Company Secretaryship to my qualifications was a strategic decision to complement my legal acumen with a deep understanding of corporate governance and compliance. Together, these qualifications provided a holistic skill set to thrive in the corporate legal landscape with confidence.
For young students pursuing multiple qualifications, my advice is to concentrate on creating synergy between their chosen fields. Prioritizing effective time management, maintaining focus, and aligning their learning path with long-term career aspirations are essential. These efforts not only offer a competitive edge but also help cultivate versatile and comprehensive skill sets.
What was unique about the teaching pedagogy of Queen Mary University of London that piqued your interest instead of going with other universities offering similar courses?
Queen Mary University of London stood out due to its rigorous academic environment combined with the institution’s global perspective. Its focus on corporate and commercial law aligned perfectly with my career aspirations. Additionally, the access to renowned faculty and diverse peer interactions enriched my learning experience. India also follows the common law tradition, and hence learning was seamless. The curriculum encouraged critical thinking, problem-solving, and an interdisciplinary approach, all of which have been instrumental in my professional journey.
In your inspiring journey, you have worked as the Legal and Corporate Advisory head of various big companies. What, in your experience, is the future of technology in the field of contract management, compliance, and Data Protection with regards to the changes brought by the DPDP Act?
Technology is reshaping the legal landscape in diverse areas including contract management, compliance, and data protection. Tools like CLM software, compliance management platforms leveraging AI and machine learning could streamline processes, improve accuracy, and mitigate risks. The Digital Personal Data Protection Act emphasizes the need for robust data governance frameworks, and the software tools can significantly enhance capabilities in data privacy, incident response, and compliance monitoring.
Moving forward, the integration of AI, machine learning, blockchain for smart contracts, and enhanced data security protocols will redefine standards in these fields. Legal professionals must embrace these advancements to remain agile and add strategic value.
Heading a law firm specializing in corporate, commercial, securities, finance, and real estate laws and providing strategic counsel to various national and multinational corporations must be a demanding task. What are some of the strategies that you employ to achieve desirable results for your clients?
Delivering optimal results requires a blend of strategic thinking, meticulous preparation, and proactive client engagement. Key strategies include:
- Understanding the unique objectives and challenges of each client to craft relevant strategies.
- Engaging multidisciplinary teams to provide holistic advice that addresses both legal and business needs.
- Focusing on providing solutions rather than being held up at problems.
- Staying updated on legal developments and industry trends to anticipate potential challenges and opportunities.
Your expertise extends across diverse sectors, and you have headed various legal and corporate advisory teams over the years. How do you ensure a collaborative and supportive environment within your team?
Fostering a collaborative and supportive environment within a team begins with building trust and ensuring open communication. Setting a clear vision coupled with empowerment of the team plays a crucial role by encouraging team members to take ownership of their responsibilities while providing the necessary guidance and mentorship. A supportive environment thrives on mutual respect and a shared commitment to excellence, ensuring that every member contributes to the overall success.
You must have a fast-paced work schedule as the General Counsel & Company Secretary to Manipal Health Enterprises Pvt. Ltd. How do you manage a work-life balance with a demanding career?
Work-life balance in a demanding career involves setting clear boundaries and prioritizing responsibilities. Time management plays a crucial role, with specific time slots allocated for both professional and personal commitments. Delegation is equally important, as trusting the team to manage responsibilities while maintaining oversight ensures efficiency. Achieving a sustainable balance is an ongoing process that requires adaptability and a conscious effort to stay grounded.
Given your diverse experience, what advice would you give to the young law students who aspire to be successful in the field of corporate governance?
Success in corporate governance demands a combination of technical expertise, ethical integrity, and strategic thinking. My advice to young law students:
- Focus on mastering core legal and regulatory principles.
- Keep abreast of emerging trends, such as ESG and digital transformation.
- Cultivate leadership, communication, and negotiation abilities.
- Learn from experienced professionals who can guide your career trajectory.
What has been the most challenging engagement that you have come across in your career in the healthcare sector, and how did you accomplish it?
The most challenging engagement in the healthcare sector was overseeing the acquisition of Columbia Asia Hospitals, particularly during the challenging period of the COVID-19 pandemic. This required conducting thorough due diligence to identify potential risks, navigating negotiation of complex contracts, addressing regulatory compliance across jurisdictions, and ensuring a seamless post-acquisition integration. Effective collaboration with cross-functional teams was crucial to overcoming the obstacles underscoring the importance of adaptability and strategic foresight in executing high-stakes transactions.
In your entrepreneurial venture, you led a boutique law firm specializing in corporate, commercial, securities, finance, and real estate laws. What were the key experiences that made you switch to starting your own practice and then again to working with Manipal Health Enterprises Pvt. Ltd.?
Starting my own practice was driven by a desire for professional independence and the opportunity to build a client-centric firm. It allowed me to explore diverse industries, deepen my expertise, and develop strong client relationships. Transitioning to Manipal Health Enterprises was motivated by the scale and impact of the role. It presented an opportunity to work on transformative projects, such as large-scale acquisitions. This journey underscores the importance of aligning career decisions with both professional aspirations and personal values.
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