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The Dynamic
CLO's Shaping the Future of
The Digital Horizon Expanding Legal Influence in a Technology-Driven World
the
Legal
Industry in 2025
Driving Long-Term Success Aligning Legal Strategy with Business Vision Chief Compliance Officer & Head of Business Legal, Shriram Life Insurance
Bireswar
Chatterjee Ensuring Legal Integrity in
Every Business Decision
The future belongs to leaders who invest in people with the same urgency they invest in tools.
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CREDITS MANAGING EDITOR
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Abhishek Roy Rohit Sutar
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Editor's Perspective
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uardianship and growth are two forces that rarely align with ease, yet the modern legal leader carries both responsibilities with precision. Protecting the enterprise from legal pitfalls while clearing the path for innovation has become an essential art. No longer confined to the role of a gatekeeper, the legal function now serves as a catalyst for resilience and transformation, ensuring that opportunity and security advance together. This edition of the magazine, The Dynamic CLOs Shaping the Future of
Honoring the Guardians of Growth the Legal Industry in 2025, places a spotlight on the individuals who redefine what legal leadership means today. Within these pages, readers will discover how strategy, compliance, and foresight converge to shape the decisions that will define businesses for years to come. Our motive is clear. This issue is not only about recognizing the evolving role of legal leaders but also about offering insights that inspire both reflection and action. By sharing perspectives, case studies, and emerging practices, we aim to create a dialogue that enriches the legal profession while strengthening its influence on business and society. Looking ahead, the role of the legal leader will expand even further, shaped by technology, shifting regulations, and global challenges. The future belongs to those who can balance wisdom with innovation, clarity with creativity, and tradition with transformation. It is this blend of qualities that will continue to elevate the profession and ensure its enduring impact. BM
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Abhishek Roy - Managing Editor
Table Of
CON TE NTS Cov Sto
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Bireswar
Chatterjee Sowing Roots for a Greener Tomorrow
Profiles 18 26 36
Kanchinadham Parvatheesam Pioneering Excellence in Corporate Governance and Compliance
Shruti Jain
Shaping the Legal Landscape of Global Energy and Power
Sunil Lotke
Championing Corporate Governance and Compliance for the Future of Financial Services
Arties 22 30
Driving Long-Term Success Aligning Legal Strategy with Business Vision
The Digital Horizon
Expanding Legal Influence in a Technology-Driven World
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Cover Sto ry
Bireswar
Chatterjee Ensuring Legal Integrity in Every Business Decision
I believe in building systems that survive people, and teams that think beyond their silos. Legal strategy must scale with the business.
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Bireswar Chatterjee
Chief Compliance Officer & Head of Business Legal, Shriram Life Insurance
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The Dynamic CLOs Shaping the Future of the Legal Industry in 2025
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very great idea must pass one critical test before it ever reaches the market: does it play by the rules? Whether it's a new product, a marketing campaign, or a distribution model, organizations cannot afford to treat compliance as an afterthought. It's the quiet force that decides whether innovation thrives or stumbles. True progress happens when creativity walks hand in hand with legality, when ambition is guided, not hindered, by thoughtful governance. Compliance is not the brake. It is the steering wheel. This is where Bireswar Chatterjee makes a lasting impression. As a legal and compliance leader at Shriram Life Insurance, he has reimagined the role of governance as a strategic partner to innovation. His foresight and discipline have embedded compliance deep within the organization's DNA Accelerating Innovation the Right Way At Shriram Life Insurance, Bireswar has redefined the traditional role of legal and compliance teams. Instead of operating in isolation, he has implemented a model that positions these functions as strategic enablers within the organization. By integrating legal insight from the earliest stages of planning, every product, partnership, campaign, or channel innovation is vetted for compliance at inception. Bireswar's approach ensures that governance protocols and regulatory frameworks are seamlessly embedded into the fabric of business operations. This integration has not only accelerated regulatory approvals but also created a foundation for
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sustainable growth and institutional trust. Staying Ahead of the Regulatory Curve Regulatory preparedness is a hallmark of Bireswar's leadership. He established the Regulatory Intelligence Cell at Shriram Life to monitor developments from IRDAI, PFRDA, RBI, and other key regulatory authorities. This team continuously evaluates circulars, exposure drafts, and consultation papers, both domestic and global, to stay aligned with emerging compliance trends. Insights from this unit are translated into internal simulations and planning strategies that help the company stay ahead of the curve. Bireswar's foresight has empowered Shriram Life to respond proactively, avoiding lastminute adjustments and fostering a strong, consistent rapport with regulators. Navigating Rural India with Sensitivity and Structure Bireswar has played a pivotal role in designing a compliance framework that caters to the unique demands of rural markets. Recognizing the infrastructural and cultural complexities of these areas, he introduced protocols that are locally adapted yet fully compliant. These include disclosures in local languages, simplified documentation for KYC, and mandatory agent training on ethics and transparency. Rural audit teams and grievance redressal mechanisms have also been institutionalized to protect customer interests. One of his key initiatives involved collaborating
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with the Telangana state government to strengthen the State Insurance Committee, thereby amplifying awareness and outreach across underserved communities. Orchestrating Timely and Transparent Submissions In his role at Shriram Life, Bireswar has overseen the submission of regulatory returns and managed interactions with various regulatory bodies. His approach to ensuring accuracy, transparency, and timeliness is rooted in strong systems and structured governance. He implemented a Compliance Calendar alongside a centralized Regulatory Filing Management System, which tracks more than 150 periodic and ad hoc submissions. To uphold the highest standards, a maker-checker-approver model was introduced, creating layers of scrutiny before any filing. Transparent audit trails further reinforce accountability. For regulator queries, Bireswar established a Response Coordination Cell that gathers inputs across departments. This ensures responses are comprehensive, backed by data, and aligned with the company's policies. These practices have helped Shriram Life maintain a spotless compliance record and cultivate strong regulatory relationships. Driving Accountability Across the Organization Bireswar believes that a robust compliance culture must be intentional and consistently reinforced. At Shriram Life, he launched a Compliance Culture Program that promotes ethical behavior as a shared responsibility across the organization. This initiative includes department-wise compliance champions who serve as local advocates, gamified training modules that make learning engaging, and quarterly ethics audits to assess adherence. Leadership plays a key role in reinforcing the message, and compliance KPIs are embedded into performance appraisals to drive accountability. Additionally, a monthly digest titled "Compliance Insight" simplifies regulatory updates and
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translates rules into practical scenarios. Under Bireswar's guidance, compliance has evolved from a backend function to a core organizational value. Innovation Anchored in Legal Assurance As Shriram Life accelerates its digital transformation with tools like ShriMithra and ShriA, Bireswar has ensured that legal and compliance safeguards are built into every stage of
In insurance, trust is everything. Our policies must reflect integrity not just in words, but in how they're explained, delivered, and honored.
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innovation. He developed a comprehensive Tech Compliance Framework that evaluates each initiative against regulatory, data privacy, and cyber risk criteria. Legal review begins at the blueprint phase and continues through development and deployment. In these digital tools, particular attention has been given to areas such as customer disclosures, consent mechanisms, and vendor contract protections. Bireswar's team also conducts legal stress testing and breach scenario simulations before any full-scale rollout. This meticulous approach allows Shriram Life to innovate boldly while maintaining the trust and confidence of its stakeholders. Rewriting the Rules of Data Engagement At Shriram Life, Bireswar positioned data governance not as a back-end compliance task but as a strategic differentiator. He led a comprehensive transformation of the company's data architecture to align with the Digital Personal Data Protection Act (DPDPA). This included adopting a consent-first model, enforcing purposespecific data usage, establishing stringent access protocols, and embedding breach response readiness across teams. Crucially, customercentricity remained a guiding principle. Bireswar ensured intuitive processes for data access and correction, reinforcing transparency and trust. This thoughtful blend of security and simplicity has not only strengthened regulatory alignment but also driven increased digital adoption and enhanced the organization's risk posture.
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Redefining Compliance Through Foresight Bireswar envisions the Chief Compliance Officer as a multidimensional leader, one who combines regulatory expertise with strategic influence. At Shriram Life, he has redefined the compliance function as a catalyst for innovation and longterm resilience. From digital distribution models to micro-insurance and ESG considerations, compliance now operates as a hub for regulatory foresight and risk anticipation. Under Bireswar's leadership, regulatory thinking is embedded in the early stages of product design, supported by analytics to flag potential gaps before they arise. His vision aligns with IRDAI's emphasis on the evolving stature of the CCO as a Key Managerial Personnel, with expectations of sectoral expertise, continuity, and ethical stewardship. Legal as an Enabler To Bireswar, legal agility means empowering innovation while maintaining regulatory and contractual integrity. At Shriram Life, he architected a modular legal framework that includes standardized templates, regulatory vetting sheets, and tailored risk matrices across departments. A pivotal moment came with the launch of a centralized contract management tool, an initiative he conceptualized and implemented for the first time in the company's legal division. This platform has revolutionized contract lifecycle management, offering realtime visibility, version control, and faster turnaround times. Beyond tools, Bireswar has instilled a culture where
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The regulatory landscape may shift, but if your principles are right and your systems are strong, your organization remains steady.
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measures have significantly improved customer confidence and strengthened the company's social responsibility mandate. Blueprints of Leadership
the legal team serves as a strategic partner, not a roadblock. By offering legally sound yet business-savvy guidance, his leadership has helped Shriram Life bring innovative insurance products to market swiftly and securely.
Bireswar's evolution from Head of Legal to his dual role as Chief Compliance Officer and Head of Business Legal has been guided by three principles: empowerment, adaptability, and stewardship. He believes in building systems that outlast individuals, mentoring teams to think strategically and act autonomously. His leadership emphasizes cross-functional literacy, spanning finance, technology, and operations, so that legal and compliance guidance is always aligned with business realities. This holistic, systems-driven approach has allowed him to scale his responsibilities while staying closely connected to the organization's strategic vision.
Embedding Integrity into Every Policy
Forging Compliance Leaders for the Modern Era
For Bireswar, trust is the true currency of insurance. As a leader overseeing both legal and compliance functions, he has prioritized fairness, transparency, and accountability—especially for underserved and vulnerable populations. Under his direction, Shriram Life has simplified policy documentation, standardized claims turnaround protocols, and introduced claim advocacy support in remote regions. Compliance teams now proactively audit agent behavior, resolve grievances early, and ensure disclosures are clear and honest. These
Bireswar encourages aspiring legal and compliance professionals to go beyond just mastering the law. He advises them to understand business models, customer psychology, digital technologies, and ethics. In his view, the most effective legal minds are those who become solution providers, who integrate legal knowledge with commercial value. His message is clear: remain curious, stay grounded in integrity, and aim to be indispensable by bridging legal frameworks with business outcomes. Credibility, he emphasizes, is built not just on knowledge but on character. BM
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Every great innovation needs a guardian who understands both the law and the vision
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Kanchinadham Pvathees Chief Legal Officer | Tata Steel
Pioneering Excellence in Corporate Governance and Compliance
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n the world of corporate governance and compliance, few leaders have demonstrated the breadth and depth of expertise that Kanchinadham Parvatheesam brings to the table. With a career spanning nearly 25 years, he has established himself as a stalwart in the fields of governance, risk management, ethics, and stakeholder relations. His exceptional academic foundation as a Management Graduate, Lawyer, and Corporate Secretary, combined with his hands-on experience with iconic companies, has enabled him to shape and strengthen corporate governance frameworks across industries. A Journey Rooted in Governance and Legal Expertise Kanchinadham's professional journey began in the late 1990s, with his early roles as Executive Legal and Secretarial at Mphasis and Senior Executive Legal at Wipro Technologies. These positions provided him with foundational exposure to corporate law, compliance, and the intricacies of regulatory adherence within India's rapidly
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evolving corporate landscape. His deep understanding of corporate structures and legal frameworks enabled him to navigate complex governance challenges with precision and integrity. Over the years, Kanchinadham honed his expertise at Infosys, where he served in several pivotal roles, including Company Secretary and Compliance Officer, and later as Chief Risk Officer and Company Secretary. During this tenure, he managed risk assessment processes, ensured regulatory compliance, and played a key role in aligning corporate strategies with best-in-class governance practices. These experiences cemented his reputation as a dependable and insightful leader capable of managing multifaceted responsibilities across legal, compliance, and governance domains. Transforming Corporate Governance at Tata Steel Currently serving as the Company Secretary and Chief Legal Officer at Tata Steel, Kanchinadham has been entrusted with leading compliance,
corporate governance, and legal affairs for one of the world's top steel producers. Tata Steel, with a global presence across five continents and a consolidated turnover of US $19.7 billion in the financial year ending March 31, 2020, has relied on Kanchinadham's expertise to maintain its leadership in corporate governance standards. In his role, he ensures that the organization operates within regulatory frameworks while adhering to the highest ethical standards. His responsibilities span managing compliance protocols, overseeing legal matters, and guiding Tata Steel's corporate governance policies in alignment with global best practices. Through his strategic insights, he has contributed to Tata Steel's consistent ranking among the top steel companies in the DJSI Corporate Sustainability Assessment since 2016, highlighting the company's commitment to sustainable and ethical operations.
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Global Exposure and Regulatory Acumen Kanchinadham's exposure is not limited to Indian regulations. As a former Compliance Officer of a US Securities and Exchange Commission Registrant, he gained significant experience with US Securities Laws, corporate governance rules, and SEC procedures. This international perspective allows him to navigate cross-border governance challenges with confidence, ensuring that Tata Steel's global operations meet the highest standards of compliance and transparency. His contributions extend beyond corporate roles. Kanchinadham has been an active member of various regulatory, industry, and professional committees that shape corporate
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governance principles in India. Notably, he served on the committee that framed guidelines on Investor Relations for Central Public Sector Enterprises, demonstrating his ability to influence policy and foster transparency in corporate reporting. Building Governance with Precision and Integrity Known for his meticulous attention to detail, Kanchinadham combines a strategic mindset with operational rigor. He approaches governance not just as a set of obligations but as a strategic enabler for long-term corporate success. His leadership style emphasizes clarity, consistency, and accountability, ensuring that Tata Steel's operations reflect both ethical principles and operational excellence.
I take pride in nurturing teams that are not only competent but also principled. Developing future leaders is as important as achieving organizational goals.
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The Dynamic CLO's Shaping the Future of the Legal Industry in 2025
Kanchinadham's philosophy revolves around proactive risk management, structured disclosure, and robust stakeholder communication. He believes that effective governance is the cornerstone of sustainable business growth and that the credibility of an organization is built on trust, transparency, and ethical practices. Under his guidance, Tata Steel has achieved numerous accolades, including recognition for sustainability, ethical practices, and excellence in financial reporting. Championing Risk Management and Ethical Leadership Throughout his career, Kanchinadham has emphasized the importance of ethics and risk management as integral components of corporate governance. He has successfully led initiatives to identify, assess, and mitigate risks while fostering a culture of ethical decision-making across organizations. His approach ensures that Tata Steel and its subsidiaries not only comply with statutory requirements but also embed values-driven decision-making into everyday business operations. He has consistently demonstrated the ability to manage complex governance frameworks, balancing regulatory compliance with strategic business imperatives. His efforts in driving integrated governance practices have enhanced stakeholder confidence, strengthened investor relations, and reinforced Tata Steel's reputation as a company committed to excellence. A Legacy of Leadership and Mentorship Kanchinadham is widely respected not only for his professional achievements but also for his mentorship and leadership qualities. He has nurtured
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teams across legal, compliance, and governance functions, instilling in them the importance of ethics, diligence, and strategic thinking. His guidance has helped develop future leaders capable of navigating the increasingly complex corporate environment with confidence and competence. His ability to foster collaboration across departments and geographies has been pivotal in creating cohesive governance structures. By building a culture that values transparency and accountability, he ensures that governance practices are not only compliant but also sustainable and forward-looking. Recognitions and Contributions to Corporate Excellence Kanchinadham's contributions have been instrumental in Tata Steel receiving several prestigious recognitions, including the World Economic Forum's Global Lighthouse recognition for its Kalinganagar Plant, the Prime Minister's Trophy for the best performing integrated steel plant, and awards for excellence in financial reporting from the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India. His work has reinforced Tata Steel's position as a global leader committed to sustainable business practices and ethical corporate governance.
Vision for the Future of Corporate Governance Looking ahead, Kanchinadham envisions a corporate world where governance, compliance, and ethics are seamlessly integrated into business strategy. He advocates for continuous learning, adoption of global best practices, and the use of technology to enhance transparency and efficiency. His vision underscores the importance of forward-thinking governance that adapts to evolving business challenges while upholding the highest ethical standards. Kanchinadham Parvatheesam's career is a testament to the power of expertise, integrity, and leadership in shaping corporate excellence. Through his unwavering commitment to governance, compliance, and stakeholder engagement, he has left an indelible mark on the organizations he has served and continues to influence the broader corporate landscape in India. As Tata Steel continues to grow and innovate globally, Kanchinadham's leadership ensures that the organization remains a benchmark for ethical governance, strategic foresight, and operational excellence. BM
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His active participation in regulatory and industry committees further highlights his dedication to shaping the governance landscape in India. By contributing to policy frameworks and best practice guidelines, Kanchinadham ensures that his expertise benefits not only his organization but the broader corporate community.
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Driving Long-Term Success
Aligning
Legal Strategy with
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Vision
n today's fast-changing marketplace, organizations face growing complexities in governance, compliance, and risk management. Legal functions are no longer confined to managing contracts or resolving disputes. They are expected to play a proactive role in shaping business growth. By aligning legal strategy with the overall business vision, organizations can strengthen resilience, minimize risks, and capture opportunities for long-term success. Legal as a Strategic Partner in Business Growth Traditionally, legal departments were seen as advisory units that responded to challenges when needed. However, forward-thinking organizations recognize that the legal function can be a powerful driver of value creation. When legal strategies are designed to support business objectives, they help companies enter new markets, structure innovative partnerships, and build trust with stakeholders. A business that envisions international expansion, for example, needs legal foresight on cross-border compliance, intellectual property protections, and regulatory frameworks. By embedding legal expertise into the planning process, leaders can prevent costly mistakes and accelerate execution. In this sense, legal strategy becomes a guiding partner rather than a final checkpoint. Risk Management Aligned with Vision Every business vision comes with a unique set of risks. These may include financial risks, reputational concerns, or regulatory uncertainties. Aligning legal strategy with business vision ensures that risk management is not just about avoiding pitfalls but also about enabling safe growth. For instance, a company entering the renewable energy sector faces regulatory changes and environmental standards. A legal strategy that anticipates evolving policies while supporting innovation helps the company position itself as a trusted leader. Rather than restricting progress, the legal framework acts as a stabilizing foundation on which bold moves can be made with confidence.
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Embedding Compliance into Culture Compliance is often viewed as a box ticking exercise, but in reality it is a reflection of a company's values. When legal strategy aligns with business vision, compliance is no longer an obligation but a culture that reinforces trust. Employees, investors, and customers are reassured when they see that the company respects ethical standards and regulatory requirements. For long term success, compliance must be embedded across all levels of the organization. This requires ongoing training, clear policies, and leadership that communicates the importance of integrity. By integrating compliance into the organizational culture, businesses protect their reputation and secure sustainable growth. Innovation and Legal Foresight Business visions often emphasize innovation, whether in technology, services, or customer experiences. Yet innovation without legal foresight can lead to risks around intellectual property, data privacy, or liability. Aligning legal strategy with the innovation agenda ensures that creativity is supported by a strong protective framework. Consider a company investing in artificial intelligence. Legal input on data usage, transparency, and ethical implications allows innovation to flourish responsibly. Legal teams that anticipate future regulatory trends can help organizations position themselves as leaders who innovate with accountability, not just speed. Building Stakeholder Confidence Investors, partners, and customers increasingly expect organizations to demonstrate strong governance and accountability. A clear alignment between legal strategy and business vision signals that the company takes long term sustainability seriously. This
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alignment reduces uncertainties and reassures stakeholders that risks are well managed. For instance, investors may hesitate to back a company with unclear legal frameworks around intellectual property or compliance. Conversely, when a company's legal strategy is transparent and aligned with its goals, stakeholders are more confident in its ability to deliver consistent returns. Legal clarity builds credibility, and credibility strengthens stakeholder relationships. Agility in a Changing Environment One of the defining features of successful organizations is agility. In dynamic markets, adaptability is a crucial differentiator. Legal strategies aligned with business vision provide a framework that is flexible enough to evolve with changing conditions. When geopolitical shifts, technological disruptions, or new regulations emerge, businesses with aligned legal strategies can pivot faster. Instead of reacting to crises, they adapt smoothly because their legal teams are already integrated into strategic planning. This preparedness creates resilience and gives the organization a competitive edge. Collaboration Between Leaders and Legal Teams Aligning legal strategy with business vision requires collaboration. Leaders and legal teams must work hand in hand, sharing insights and anticipating future scenarios. The legal function should not operate in isolation but rather as an integral part of the decision-making process.
This collaboration creates a shared responsibility for long-term success. A Future Focused Approach The ultimate goal of aligning legal strategy with business vision is to create sustainable value. It allows companies to grow with integrity, innovate responsibly, and manage risks effectively. As markets evolve, this alignment ensures that organizations are not only legally compliant but also strategically positioned for enduring success. In the future, the role of legal teams will continue to expand as organizations face new challenges in digital transformation, global trade, and environmental responsibility. Companies that align their legal strategy with their vision will not only navigate these challenges but also thrive by turning them into opportunities. Conclusion Aligning legal strategy with business vision is no longer optional. It is a cornerstone of long-term success. Legal teams that move beyond traditional advisory roles and integrate themselves into the heart of strategic planning empower businesses to grow with resilience and confidence. When legal foresight and business ambition move together, organizations are better equipped to deliver sustainable success for all stakeholders. BM
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Open communication allows legal experts to understand the company's ambitions and design frameworks that support them. In turn, business leaders gain clarity on potential risks and opportunities from a legal standpoint.
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Shruti
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hruti Jain is a distinguished leader in the fields of legal affairs and corporate governance, with more than twentyfour years of experience and twelve years as Global Head of Legal and Company Secretary. Renowned for her ability to merge strategic foresight with legal expertise, Shruti has become a trusted advisor to boards, executive teams, and investors. Her career reflects a unique blend of governance, compliance, and business partnership, positioning her as a powerful voice in shaping organizations in complex, high-stakes industries. Mastering the Art of Governance and Growth Shruti's professional expertise spans a wide spectrum of complex corporate and financial transactions, including mergers and acquisitions, joint ventures, debt and equity financing, carve-outs, and cross-border deals. With a rare ability to balance strategic foresight and meticulous attention to detail, she navigates intricate legal and business landscapes with precision. Her approach goes beyond simply ensuring compliance; she leverages governance as a powerful enabler of credibility, resilience, and
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Shaping the Legal Landscape of Global Energy and Power
organizational growth. By aligning legal frameworks with overarching business strategies, Shruti ensures that every transaction not only safeguards profitability but also strengthens the foundation for sustainable long-term value creation. Pioneering Roles Across Leading Organizations Shruti's professional journey reflects a rare blend of legal acumen, business vision, and transformative leadership. She has been associated with some of the most respected global enterprises, where her contributions have not only protected corporate interests but also enabled organizations to achieve ambitious growth milestones. At Aegis Limited, the one billion dollar services arm of the Essar Group, Shruti played a pivotal role during a critical phase of international expansion. She steered complex international contracts and regulatory frameworks, ensuring compliance while enabling the company to seamlessly enter new markets and scale operations. Her ability to anticipate challenges and address them with precision allowed Aegis to strengthen its global footprint with confidence.
Her career then advanced to CRISIL Limited, a subsidiary of S&P Global and one of India's most respected analytical companies, where she assumed the role of Global Legal Head. In this position, she not only managed mergers and acquisitions, litigation, and compliance, but also embedded a culture of governance and ethics across the organization. She transformed the legal function into a trusted partner of business leaders, demonstrating that legal expertise is not limited to risk management but is integral to creating a culture of accountability, transparency, and trust. Today, Shruti leads legal affairs at Sterlite Power as the Global Chief Legal Officer for Renewable Energy and Power Transmission, while simultaneously serving as the Global Chief Legal and Compliance Officer at Serentica Renewables. This dual responsibility underscores her extraordinary capacity to balance highimpact roles with equal dedication and success. At two of the world's most dynamic energy companies, she provides strategic guidance on some of the most complex legal and compliance matters, reinforcing her reputation as a global leader in the legal and governance space.
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Shruti Jain Chief Legal and Compliance Officer Sterlite Electric Ltd
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Championing Renewable Energy and Sustainability At Sterlite Power, Shruti oversees global legal affairs across power transmission and renewable energy projects spanning more than seventy countries. Her work encompasses a wide range of responsibilities, from arbitration and rights of way issues to Supreme Court litigation, financing transactions, and large-scale mergers
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and acquisitions. In addition to her legal expertise, she also advises boards and promoters on critical strategic issues, ensuring that business decisions are both profitable and sustainable in the long term. At Serentica Renewables, her contributions go beyond conventional compliance. She has been instrumental in strengthening governance structures and aligning them with sustainable
business models. By weaving environmental and social considerations into corporate governance frameworks, she has established herself as an expert in renewable energy regulation and green compliance. Her vision ensures that sustainability is not just a responsibility but also a core driver of innovation and long-term growth.
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Leadership Beyond Law Shruti's philosophy of leadership is deeply rooted in trust, transparency, and ethical decision-making. She views governance not as a regulatory obligation but as a driver of long-term corporate success. Through proactive risk management, open disclosures, and strong stakeholder engagement, she has consistently positioned organizations to thrive in an
increasingly complex global business environment. Her international experience is vast and multifaceted. She brings expertise in United States SEC regulations, arbitration in diverse jurisdictions, and global financial transactions. This combination of skills equips her with the ability to navigate multifaceted legal landscapes and provide counsel that balances compliance with strategic business objectives. Her leadership approach has repeatedly demonstrated that strong governance and ethical practices directly enhance profitability and corporate reputation. Inspiring Teams and Building Futures Shruti is not only a leader but also a mentor who has invested heavily in nurturing talent across geographies. She has built strong, ethical, and
Every challenge carries within it an opportunity. My role has always been to anticipate risks, address them proactively, and help the business move forward with confidence.
future-ready legal and compliance teams that are equipped to support businesses in an ever-changing environment. By fostering resilience, integrity, and strategic thinking among her colleagues, she ensures that her influence extends beyond her immediate role and into the future of the organizations she serves. Her collaborative and empowering leadership style allows her teams to approach challenges with confidence, think beyond routine compliance, and contribute meaningfully to business strategy. She inspires professionals to align personal growth with organizational goals, creating a culture where individuals feel valued, motivated, and equipped to drive innovation. A Legacy of Impact Shruti's career is defined by the lasting impact she has made at every organization she has been part of. At Aegis, she was instrumental in driving global expansion through legal precision and strategic foresight. At CRISIL, she reinforced governance frameworks and embedded ethics into the DNA of the organization. At Sterlite Power and Serentica Renewables, she is now leading the legal and compliance agenda for some of the most transformative renewable energy and power transmission initiatives of our time. Her work has gone far beyond strengthening corporate governance. She has been a champion of sustainability, an advocate of ethical practices, and a catalyst for innovation. Shruti's legacy is not limited to the organizations she has served, but extends to the many professionals she has mentored and inspired, leaving an indelible mark on the global legal and business community. BM
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The Digital Horizon
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Expanding Legal Influence
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he rapid evolution of technology has transformed nearly every aspect of how businesses operate, and the legal function has not been left behind. Once seen primarily as a guardian of compliance and risk management, the legal profession is now stepping into a more dynamic role that extends far beyond contracts and regulations. As organizations embrace digital transformation, the legal function must expand its influence to guide strategy, manage risks in emerging technologies, and ensure that innovation is built on a foundation of trust and accountability. The Shifting Landscape of Legal Influence Technology is no longer a support tool. It is at the heart of business operations, shaping products, services, and customer experiences. In this context, legal professionals are required to understand not only the law but also the technologies that power modern enterprises. Artificial intelligence, blockchain, cloud computing, and data analytics are no longer niche areas. They have become mainstream components of global business, and each carries its own legal and ethical considerations.
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The legal function now plays an essential role in bridging the gap between innovation and regulation. It must ensure that businesses can move forward at the speed of technology while maintaining compliance with ever-changing laws across multiple jurisdictions. This expanded role positions legal teams not only as advisors but also as strategic enablers of growth. Navigating the Complexities of Data and Privacy Data has become one of the most valuable assets of the digital age. Organizations collect, process, and analyze vast amounts of information to gain insights, improve customer experiences, and create new revenue streams. However, with this reliance on data comes heightened responsibility. Privacy regulations such as the General Data Protection Regulation in Europe and the California Consumer Privacy Act in the United States have raised the stakes for businesses worldwide. Legal professionals must ensure that organizations not only comply with these regulations but also embed privacy into their corporate culture. This requires close collaboration with
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technology teams to implement responsible data governance practices. In addition, as artificial intelligence and machine learning models increasingly rely on large data sets, legal experts must also address questions of bias, fairness, and accountability to maintain public trust. Cybersecurity and the Expanding Role of Legal Oversight Alongside data, cybersecurity has become one of the most critical concerns for modern organizations. With cyberattacks growing in both scale and sophistication, companies face risks that can lead to reputational damage, financial loss, and regulatory penalties. The legal function has a pivotal role in shaping cybersecurity strategies. This includes drafting incident response plans, ensuring compliance with disclosure obligations, and working with technology teams to prepare for potential breaches. Beyond compliance, legal leaders are also expected to anticipate emerging threats and advise on proactive measures. For example, the growing use of internet-connected devices in industries such as healthcare and finance raises complex legal questions about liability, consumer protection, and national security. By providing foresight on these issues, legal professionals help organizations safeguard not just their systems but also their long-term credibility. Intellectual Property in the Era of Innovation As businesses invest heavily in innovation, intellectual property becomes a cornerstone of competitive advantage. In a digital-first economy, where ideas can be shared or replicated quickly, protecting intellectual property has never been more vital. Legal professionals are at the forefront of ensuring that patents, copyrights, and
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trademarks are properly managed and defended. Moreover, the rise of technologies like generative artificial intelligence raises fresh challenges. Questions such as who owns the output of an AI system or how creative works can be protected in an automated environment require new frameworks and interpretations. Legal teams are called upon to shape these evolving standards, influencing not only individual businesses but also the broader innovation ecosystem. Building Ethical and Sustainable Digital Practices Technology may provide solutions, but it also brings ethical dilemmas. Issues of surveillance, facial recognition, and algorithmic bias are no longer confined to academic discussions. They are real concerns with societal implications. Legal professionals play a vital role in guiding organizations toward ethical choices that go beyond compliance and reflect a commitment to fairness, transparency, and sustainability. For instance, environmental, social, and governance priorities are increasingly tied to digital operations. From sustainable data centers to ethical sourcing of technology components, legal teams are instrumental in ensuring that organizations meet both regulatory expectations and stakeholder demands. This alignment of technology with ethical and sustainable practices further expands the influence of the legal function in shaping business strategy.
ability to interpret and apply the law in new and uncertain contexts will define the success of the legal profession in the years ahead. Continuous learning, adaptability, and strategic thinking are becoming core competencies. Legal teams that embrace technology, such as using AIdriven tools for contract management or blockchain for secure recordkeeping, are already setting new benchmarks for efficiency and effectiveness. By combining legal knowledge with digital insight, these professionals are positioning themselves as indispensable partners in the journey toward innovation. Conclusion The rise of technology has opened an entirely new chapter for the legal profession. From data privacy and cybersecurity to intellectual property and ethical governance, the scope of legal influence has expanded far beyond its traditional boundaries. In a world where technology drives both opportunities and risks, legal professionals must embrace their role as strategic leaders who guide organizations through complexity with foresight and integrity. BM
INDIA
The digital horizon offers immense potential, but realizing it requires trust, responsibility, and adaptability. By expanding their influence and aligning with the needs of a technology-driven world, legal professionals are not only safeguarding organizations but also shaping the future of business itself. BM
INDIA
Preparing for the Future The digital horizon is vast and rapidly changing, demanding that legal professionals continuously expand their skill sets. No longer can they rely solely on traditional legal expertise. They must also develop fluency in technology, risk management, and cross-functional collaboration. The
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Growth ourishes where legal guidance transforms from restriction into direction.
Sunil
Lotke
Championing Corporate Governance and Compliance for the Future of Financial Services
T
he world of finance operates on trust, structure, and compliance. Behind the rapid growth of financial institutions are leaders who ensure that every legal, regulatory, and governance standard is met without compromise. Among these leaders is Sunil Lotke, a seasoned professional with nearly two decades of experience in corporate compliance, legal affairs, and secretarial responsibilities. His career is marked by an unwavering commitment to integrity, operational excellence, and strategic legal guidance. Today, as the Chief Legal and Compliance Officer at UGRO Capital, he continues to shape the future of the financial services sector by blending expertise with vision. A Career Built on Expertise and Dedication Sunil's professional journey reflects consistent growth across diverse organizations in the financial domain. He began his career with Capital First Limited, serving as Senior Manager,
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where he developed his foundation in corporate legal functions and compliance management. His role required him to engage with regulatory frameworks, contract negotiations, and governance structures, preparing him for the larger responsibilities that would follow. After this, he joined IIFL, also known as India Infoline Group, as Vice President of Compliance, Legal and Secretarial. In this role, he spent over five years managing complex legal and regulatory matters for one of India's most prominent financial services groups. His expertise extended across wealth management, securities laws, private equity, and corporate restructuring, giving him an expansive understanding of how legal compliance integrates with business growth. The next chapter of his career unfolded at StarAgri Finance, where he took on the role of Head of Legal, Compliance and Secretarial. Over a period of three years, he was instrumental in building robust compliance systems and
aligning governance frameworks with the organization's goals. This role tested his ability to lead crossfunctional teams while ensuring strict adherence to regulatory norms in a sector that required both agility and precision. In 2018, Sunil transitioned to InCred Finance as Director of Legal and Compliance. His tenure here was marked by innovation in compliance systems, proactive risk management, and seamless integration of legal functions into the company's rapidly expanding operations. Managing compliance for a dynamic institution like InCred required foresight and adaptability, qualities that Sunil has consistently demonstrated throughout his career. In August 2019, he joined UGRO Capital as Chief Legal and Compliance Officer. Over the years, he has grown into a central figure within the company, ensuring that every aspect of compliance and legal governance supports its larger mission of
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Sunil Lotke Chief Legal & Compliance Officer U Gro Capital
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transforming small business lending in India. His leadership has been critical to building trust with regulators, partners, and stakeholders. Areas of Expertise and Professional Strengths Sunil Lotke's career spans nearly twenty years, during which he has built deep expertise in multiple areas that form the backbone of financial governance. His knowledge covers NBFC and HFC regulatory frameworks, wealth management, securities laws, private equity structures, corporate restructuring, fundraising, contract management, and corporate governance. Each of these areas requires a high degree of precision, foresight, and an ability to align legal and compliance frameworks with business ambitions.
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One of Sunil's defining strengths is his ability to view compliance not as a limitation but as an enabler of business growth. His approach is proactive, focusing on risk prevention and operational clarity rather than reactive problem-solving. This perspective has allowed the institutions he has worked with to grow while maintaining a reputation for transparency and trustworthiness. Leadership at UGRO Capital UGRO Capital Limited has positioned itself as a DataTech Lending platform committed to addressing the credit gap in India's MSME sector. The company is listed on NSE and BSE and is widely recognized for its mission of solving the unsolved by providing financial solutions to micro, small, and medium enterprises. With its strong data-driven
approach and sector-focused strategy, UGRO Capital has emerged as a key player in empowering small businesses across the country. Sunil's role at UGRO Capital is integral to this mission. As Chief Legal and Compliance Officer, he ensures that the organization's ambitious goals are grounded in strong compliance structures and transparent governance. Under his guidance, UGRO Capital has been able to pursue innovative lending solutions while adhering to regulatory standards set forth by financial authorities. The company has carefully chosen eight key sectors to serve in the MSME space after conducting extensive research in collaboration with market experts. These sectors include healthcare, education, chemicals, food
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processing and FMCG, hospitality, electrical equipment and components, auto components, and light engineering. In addition, UGRO extends its services to microenterprises that collectively form a significant part of India's economy. Sunil's oversight ensures that the company's lending practices across these diverse sectors remain fully compliant, ethical, and sustainable. Balancing Governance with Growth One of the most challenging aspects of Sunil's role is maintaining a delicate balance between compliance and business expansion. The financial services sector is heavily regulated, and institutions must continuously adapt to evolving policies and guidelines. For UGRO Capital, which aspires to become India's largest small business financing institution, this balance is even more critical. Sunil's
I have always believed that innovation and compliance must go hand in hand for any financial services company to truly succeed.
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ability to align legal frameworks with business strategies allows the company to expand without compromising on compliance. His experience in corporate restructuring and fundraising plays a crucial role in supporting UGRO Capital's ambitious plans. Whether it involves managing contracts, advising on new financial instruments, or ensuring seamless regulatory approvals, Sunil provides the legal clarity needed for confident decisionmaking. A Legacy of Integrity and Trust Across every role he has held, Sunil Lotke has left behind a legacy of trust and discipline. Colleagues and peers often describe him as a leader who combines technical knowledge with ethical clarity. His approach to leadership is participatory, encouraging teams to see compliance as an essential aspect of business success rather than a burdensome obligation. His career also highlights his adaptability. From managing the legal frameworks of wealth management to overseeing compliance in NBFC and HFC sectors, he has consistently demonstrated the ability to pivot and excel in diverse financial environments. This adaptability has been vital in his journey at UGRO Capital, where innovation and compliance must work hand in hand. Looking Ahead
ensuring that as the company scales, its foundations of trust, governance, and compliance remain unshakable. As he looks to the future, Sunil sees compliance as a transformative force that can strengthen institutions, safeguard stakeholders, and contribute to the overall health of the financial ecosystem. His journey reflects not only personal growth but also a broader commitment to building a financial sector that is transparent, ethical, and sustainable. Conclusion Sunil Lotke's professional story is one of resilience, expertise, and integrity. With nearly twenty years of experience, he has become a trusted leader in legal and compliance affairs within India's financial services sector. At UGRO Capital, he has found a platform that aligns with his belief in using governance as a tool for growth and impact. His work ensures that the company remains true to its mission of solving the unsolved while becoming a model of responsible and innovative lending. In many ways, Sunil represents the unsung pillars of financial institutions, the professionals who work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure that ambition is matched with accountability. His legacy will not only be defined by the positions he has held but also by the values of integrity and governance that he has upheld throughout his career. BM
INDIA
The future of financial services in India will be shaped by data-driven decisionmaking, rapid digitization, and evolving regulatory landscapes. For UGRO Capital, the mission of empowering MSMEs remains central to its growth strategy. Sunil Lotke will continue to play a pivotal role in
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