Unstoppable Women Leaders to Watch

VOL-11 | ISSUE-08 | 2023 Know Your Leader Comprehending the Leadership Perspectives in Digitally Advanced Industry Admirable Aspects Understanding the Traits that Signify Impeccable Leadership Approaches Seema Dr Fostering Avirat Projects Solu?ons as A Beacon of Diversity and Inclusion for Women Entrepreneurship ngh www.ciolookindia.com

WOMEN LEADERS REDEFINING THE FUTURE A remarkable evolution is underway in today's dynamic professional landscape. Hailing from diverse backgrounds, women are rising to leadership positions, shattering glass ceilings, and crafting profound waves of change across various industries. 'Unstoppable Women Leaders to Watch' commemorates their determination and commitment to the causes they champion. They stand as trailblazers in their respective domains, redefining the landscape for women in influential positions. Their stories not only inspire but also call upon the world to acknowledge and nurture the incredible potential of women leaders. Unstoppable women leaders embark on an enthralling journey through the lives, narratives, and achievements of these exceptional women who have not only shattered stereotypes but have also emerged as formidable leaders, commanding respect and influence on a global scale. Within this compilation, delve into the challenges these women have surmounted, the milestones they have reached, and the profound impact they continue to create in their industries, communities, and the wider world. From advocating gender equality and female empowerment to fostering innovation and driving business success, these unstoppable leaders are pioneers shaping our collective future. This collection explores the core of resilience, determination, and unrelenting ambition that characterizes these women leaders. Their aspirations surpass merely challenging the existing norms; they are rewriting the narrative. Each woman featured in this collection has left an indelible mark in her own distinct way, inspiring and empowering others on their journey. CIOLook India's exclusive edition transcends being just a compilation of success stories; it stands as a tribute to the escalating influence of women in leadership and a testament to the boundless capabilities of female leaders worldwide. As we embark on this captivating expedition, readers will encounter a rich tapestry of backgrounds, careers, and experiences. These women leaders emerge from diverse paths, ranging from CEOs and entrepreneurs to scientists, artists, humanitarians, and more. What unites them is an unyielding spirit that stands strong in the face of adversity. Join us on this inspiring journey and explore the narratives of those who have defied odds, dismantled barriers, and emerged as leaders who are truly unstoppable. Enjoy the voyage! Editor's Note Gaurav PR Wankhade Managing Editor

Cover Story CONTENTS Seema Dr Fostering Avirat Projects Solu?ons as A Beacon of Diversity and Inclusion for Women Entrepreneurship ngh 08 20 24 28 36 The Professionally Empowering Corporate Legal Partner Articles Stuti Stuti Dhyani 16 32 An Ardent Legal Advisor Offering the Most Optimal Solutions Know Your Leader Comprehending the Leadership Perspectives in Digitally Advanced Industry Admirable Aspects Understanding the Traits that Signify Impeccable Leadership Approaches

VOL-11 | ISSUE-08 | 2023 I N D I A Know Your Leader Comprehending the Leadership Perspectives in Digitally Advanced Industry Admirable Aspects Understanding the Traits that Signify Impeccable Leadership Approaches Pooja M. Bansal Editor-in-Chief Seema Dr Fostering Avirat Projects Solu?ons as A Beacon of Diversity and Inclusion for Women Entrepreneurship ngh www.ciolookindia.com to Watch CONTENT FOLLOW US ON www.twitter.com/ciolookindia www.facebook.com/ciolookindia/ Managing Editor: Gaurav PR Wankhade Assisting Editor : Prajakta Zurale Featuring Company Brief WE ARE ALSO AVAILABLE ON Dr Seema Singh, the Founder and Director of Avirat Project Solutions, is really bringing future transformation in the educational sector by her innovative ideas, meticulous attention to detail, and a redefined approach to education and administration. Dr Seema Singh, Founder and Director DESIGN Avirat Projects Solutions Visualizer: Sandeep Tikode Art & Design Director: Rashmi Singh Associate Designer : Sameen Arif CONTACT US ON Nidhi’s general corporate practice includes advising corporate houses on day-to-day matters. She has also been involved in various corporate transactions in the fields of power, turnkey projects, and logistics. Argus Partners (Solicitors & Advocates) Nidhi Arya, Partner Email sales@ciolookindia.com For Subscription www.ciolookindia.com Richa Dhall's The DM Company is a full-service digital marketing consultancy with a bouquet of services to offer to Startups, Small and Medium Businesses. SALES Richa Dhall, Founder The DM Company Sr. Vice President : Swapnali Vasaikar Sr. Sales Manager : Tejaswini Whaval Team Leader : Suraj Gadekar BDE : Reetika Sharma Copyright © 2023 CIOLOOK India, All rights reserved. The content and images used in this magazine should not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior permission from CIOLOOK India. Reprint rights remain solely with CIOLOOK India. MSG Global, where Shefali is a HR Director, is a consulting, implementation, and managed services provider that helps companies improve their operational efficiency and decision- making capabilities utilizing SAP technology. MSG Global Solutions India Pvt Ltd Shefali Dash, Human Resource Director Stuti Dhyani is an experienced Patent Attorney with a demonstrated history of working in the IPR services industry. Skilled in Patent Litigation, Prosecution, Legal Research and Patent Contentious proceedings. Stuti Dhyani, Partner TECHNICAL Saikrishna & Associates Technical Head : Prachi Mokashi Technical Specialist: Rajeshwari Avhad Technical Consultant : Tanaji Fartade sales@ciolookindia.com SME-SMO NOVEMBER, 2023 Research Analyst : Renuka Kulkarni SEO Lead : Nikita Khadalkar Cover Price: Rs.350/-

Dr Fostering Avirat Projects Solu?ons as A Beacon of Diversity and Inclusion for Women Entrepreneurship Seema ngh Mo?vated by a vision to bridge technological gaps and create sustainable solu?ons, Dr Seema Singh founded Avirat Projects Solu?ons. Dr Seema Singh, Founder and Director Cover Story

A A individuals. Even if the traditional outlook may be uninformed or misinformed of the ever-changing realities, gender inequality could not, cannot, and will not be able to stop the constantly progressing march of the unstoppable women leaders into every sphere of human activities. Unstoppable Women Leaders to Watch By assembling a team of dedicated professionals and promoting a collaborative environment, they ensure that every project exceeds expectations. Dr Seema ensures that her team believes in adaptability, staying ahead of industry trends, and maintaining the highest ethical standards. “This relentless pursuit of excellence, coupled with a focus on client needs, has propelled us to be recognized as a world- class enterprise, a testament to our unwavering commitment to success,” says Dr Seema. lthough we look at everything through a three- dimensional prism, reality is multidimensional. These multiple dimensions come from the multiple perspectives developed by the brains and minds of distinct Prepared to Adapt When Dr Seema Singh established her dream enterprise, Avirat Projects Solutions, fighting against all odds, she always knew that her fight wasn’t over yet. Or it had just begun. Nonetheless, unforeseen obstacles, challenges, and hurdles won’t be able to stop or discourage her. The entrepreneurial landscape is continually evolving. Thus, according to her, remaining at the forefront of innovation in the ever-evolving entrepreneurial landscape is central to their approach at Avirat Projects Solutions. As a Director, Dr Seema fosters a culture of adaptability and foresight within the organization. “We invest in continuous learning and development, ensuring our team is equipped with the latest skills and knowledge. Regular industry trend analysis and strategic collaborations keep us ahead of the curve,” she informs. Because, the inception of her journey with Avirat Projects Solutions was fueled by a fervent passion for innovation and a desire to contribute meaningfully to the entrepreneurial landscape. Dr Seema says, “Motivated by a vision to bridge technological gaps and create sustainable solutions, I embarked on this venture.” Determined to Shine Being a female director in a dynamic industry, she faced challenges that only fueled her determination to excel. Dr Seema’s journey is a testament to resilience, strategic vision, and unwavering dedication. “I believe in fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment, empowering my team to surpass industry standards.” Overcoming obstacles, she has cultivated Avirat Projects Solutions into a beacon of success. “I am committed to inspiring others, particularly women, to pursue their aspirations in the entrepreneurial realm.” I believe in leading by example, ins?lling a sense of purpose that resonates throughout the organiza?on. Dr Seema’s story underscores the transformative power of leadership, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Hats off to her! Avirat Projects Solutions has emerged as one of the best enterprises. Sharing the guiding philosophy that has propelled their unstoppable success, Dr Seema says that at Avirat Projects Solutions, their success is rooted in a commitment to innovation, integrity, and client-centric solutions. “Our guiding philosophy centres on embracing change, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, and prioritizing client satisfaction.”

Embracing emerging technologies and encouraging a dynamic mindset allows them to provide their clients with innovative solutions. Their commitment to staying adaptable, coupled with a proactive approach to change, enables them not only to meet but exceed their clients' expectations in this rapidly changing business environment. The collective success stories underscore their dedication to pushing boundaries, embracing innovation, and consistently achieving remarkable milestones. These endeavours showcase their capability to adapt to dynamic landscapes and highlight team Avirat’s unwavering commitment to setting new benchmarks in the industry. We priori?ze ac?ve engagement with our clients, staying a?uned to their evolving needs. Leading by Example In the realm of entrepreneurship, technology plays a pivotal role in enhancing efficiency. Similarly, at Avirat Projects Solutions, technology is the cornerstone of their approach to entrepreneurship. As a director, Dr Seema spearheads a tech-forward strategy that optimizes their services and ensures relevance in the digital age. “We harness cutting-edge technologies, from AI and machine learning to data analytics, streamlining our operations and enhancing efficiency.” Dr Seema’s leadership style is often recognized as an inspirational force behind Avirat Projects Solutions' tremendous achievements. Shedding the light on the same, she says that as a director, her leadership ethos revolves around empowerment, collaboration, and fostering a shared vision. “I believe in leading by example, instilling a sense of purpose that resonates throughout the organization.” Constant Pursuit of Perfection Open communication channels are vital; Dr Seema encourages diverse perspectives, ensuring every team member feels valued. Team building is more than just a concept; it's a continuous process of recognizing and nurturing individual strengths. Continuous investment in research and development keeps them at the forefront of emerging tech trends, allowing the Avirat team to anticipate market needs. “This commitment to technological innovation not only optimizes our services but also positions Avirat Projects Solutions as a leader, providing our clients with forward-thinking solutions in an ever-evolving digital landscape,” says Dr Seema, who ardently believes that the workforce is the cornerstone of any successful organization. ensuring Avirat Projects Solutions remains a trailblazer in delivering impactful and user-centric solutions. Sustainability and environmental responsibility are crucial aspects of modern entrepreneurship. Dr Seema, too, ardently believes in them. She states, “At Avirat Projects Solutions, sustainability is integral to our corporate DNA.” As a director, she champions eco-conscious practices by implementing energy-efficient technologies, reducing their carbon footprint, and promoting waste reduction initiatives. They prioritize suppliers with ethical and sustainable practices, ensuring their ecosystem aligns with environmental responsibility. Dr Seema adds, “Our commitment extends to developing innovative solutions that help clients meet their sustainability goals.” She emphasizes a supportive environment where innovation flourishes and every team member is motivated to contribute their best. “Our collective success stems from a united commitment to excellence and a culture that not only adapts to change but thrives on it, ensuring Avirat Projects Solutions remains a dynamic and accomplished entity in the business landscape,” she states. She adds, “Our success is rooted in a vibrant company culture that prioritizes the growth, skill development, and empowerment of our workforce.” As a director, she champions an environment where continuous learning is celebrated. “We invest in comprehensive training programs, mentorship initiatives, and opportunities for professional development.” The Transformative Power The essence of women's business leadership lies in bringing innovation and advancements by disrupting norms. In the realm of business leadership, Dr Seema embraces the transformative power of disruption and innovation at Avirat Projects Solutions. As a female director, she advocates for diversity, recognizing that unique perspectives drive creativity and progress. Striking a balance between advancing trends and meeting user demands involves a keen understanding of market dynamics. By intertwining these principles into its operations, Avirat Projects Solutions fulfils its social responsibility and actively contributes to a greener, more sustainable future for our community and the planet. Further, by encouraging open communication, they value diverse perspectives, fostering a collaborative atmosphere. “Employee empowerment is central to our ethos; we entrust our team with responsibilities, recognizing and celebrating their contributions.” A Spectrum of Transcendence Moreover, Dr Seema shares that at Avirat Projects Solutions, their commitment to excellence and innovation is exemplified across a spectrum of transformative projects. “From pioneering technological advancements to implementing strategic initiatives that redefine industry standards, our focus remains on delivering exceptional value to our clients.” She says, “We prioritize active engagement with our clients, staying attuned to their evolving needs. Simultaneously, we foster a forward-thinking culture within our team, encouraging them to explore new ideas and technologies.” This culture not only propels individual growth but also ensures a collective synergy that drives the success of Avirat Projects Solutions. Dr Seema states, “Our commitment to the well-being and advancement of our employees is a testament to our enduring success in the dynamic business landscape.” By combining a commitment to industry trends with a deep understanding of user requirements, Dr Seema guarantees that they position themselves at the forefront of innovation,

“Our strategies prioritize constant consumer engagement through personalized experiences, leveraging data-driven insights. Virtual user experience is a key focus, ensuring seamless interactions in the digital realm,” says Dr Seema, who, being the director, champions a forward-thinking approach that positions their services at the intersection of innovation and user- centric design. By embracing these critical factors, Avirat Projects Solutions not only meets but exceeds the expectations of its clients in an era where the virtual and physical realms converge. paradigm shift in women's entrepreneurial leadership. She aspires to propel the company to new heights of technological advancement, contributing groundbreaking solutions to global challenges. As a female director, her commitment extends beyond organizational success to inspiring and empowering women in leadership roles worldwide. Shesays, “I envision Avirat Projects Solutions as a beacon of diversity and inclusion, setting precedents for women in entrepreneurship,” and concludes, “By cultivating a culture of excellence and mentorship, I aim to make a lasting impact on the global landscape, encouraging more women to break barriers and shape the future of entrepreneurial leadership.” Future with an Unlimited Possibilities Looking to the future, Dr Seema’s vision for Avirat Projects Solutions revolves around sustained innovation, global relevance, and fostering a Outsmarting Obstacles I envision Avirat Projects Solu?ons as a beacon of diversity and inclusion, se?ng precedents for women in entrepreneurship. Avirat Projects Solutions has encountered challenges in navigating the dynamic corporate sector that tested Dr Seema and her team’s resilience and ingenuity. “While I won't pinpoint a specific instance, our team's collective ability to triumph over adversity is ingrained in our culture. Faced with obstacles, we embrace a solution-oriented mindset, fostering innovation and adaptability. The strength lies in overcoming singular challenges and our continuous commitment to evolving strategies and pushing boundaries.” Dr Seema adds that this unwavering spirit, embedded in the ethos of her team, reflects their capacity to transform setbacks into opportunities, ensuring Avirat Projects Solutions remains a pioneering force in the corporate landscape. operational efficiency. The crisis catalyzed innovation, leading to the development of new solutions to address emerging challenges. By fostering resilience and agility, Avirat Projects Solutions not only weathered the storm but emerged stronger, demonstrating an unstoppable leader and her loyally committed followers’ adaptability in the face of unprecedented global upheaval. The COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped industries globally. Navigating its challenges, Dr Seema guided her team to swiftly adapt strategies to ensure business continuity. As a director, she prioritized the well-being of her team, implementing remote work protocols and fostering a supportive virtual culture. She recalls, “We embraced digital collaboration tools, ensuring seamless communication.” Leveraging the Phygital Convergence Today, every business goes beyond the physical realm, touching on digital transformation, constant consumer engagement, and virtual user experience. Accepting this fact, Dr Seema says that by confronting these critical factors in their service offerings, they are at the forefront of addressing the modern business landscape's digital demands. They recognise the significance of digital transformation and integrate cutting-edge technologies into their service offerings. Strategic pivots were made to align services with clients' evolving needs during the pandemic. Flexibility became paramount, and they leveraged technology to maintain

Comprehending the Leadership Perspectives in Digitally Advanced Industry Know Your Leader I the key leadership perspectives that are essential for success in the digitally advanced industry: n the modern digitally advanced industry, leadership perspectives have undergone a significant shift. With the rapid pace of technological change, leaders need to be more adaptable, innovative, and forward-thinking than ever before. Here are some of Visionary Leadership: In the digitally advanced industry, leaders need to have a clear vision of where their organization is headed. This requires a deep understanding of emerging technologies, market trends, and customer needs. Visionary leaders are able to identify new opportunities and create a roadmap for success. They can give their organization a competitive advantage. By providing a clear direction and inspiring innovation, they can help the organization stay ahead of the curve and differentiate itself from competitors. Visionary leadership is a style of leadership that involves setting a clear vision for an organization and inspiring others to work towards that vision. Visionary leaders can give their organization a competitive advantage. By providing a clear direction and inspiring innovation, they can help the organization stay ahead of the curve and differentiate itself from competitors. Visionary leadership offers many benefits to organizations. By providing a clear vision, inspiring and motivating employees, encouraging innovation, improving decision- making, fostering adaptability, building a strong culture, and creating a competitive advantage, visionary leaders can help organizations achieve success in today's dynamic and competitive business environment. 16 www.ciolookindia.com 17 www.ciolookindia.com

Collaborative Leadership: Collaboration is essential in the digitally advanced industry. With so many stakeholders involved in the development and implementation of new technologies, leaders need to be skilled at building strong relationships and working effectively with others. Collaborative leaders are able to build high-performing teams and create a positive work culture. Inclusive Leadership: Inclusion is becoming increasingly important in the digitally advanced industry. Leaders need to be able to create a diverse and inclusive workplace that fosters innovation and creativity. Inclusive leaders are able to attract and retain top talent from a wide range of backgrounds and perspectives. Ethical leadership can help to build stronger relationships with stakeholders. By prioritizing the needs of others and demonstrating a commitment to ethical principles, leaders can establish trust and build strong relationships with employees, customers, investors, and other stakeholders. Agile Leadership: The digitally advanced industry is characterized by rapid change and uncertainty. Leaders need to be agile and adaptable, able to pivot quickly in response to new information or market conditions. Agile leaders are able to make quick decisions, take calculated risks, and learn from failure. Customer-Centric Leadership: In the digitally advanced industry, customer needs are constantly changing. Leaders need to be able to anticipate these changes and adapt their strategies accordingly. Customer-centric leaders are able to create products and services that meet the evolving needs of their customers, building loyalty and driving growth. Data-Driven Leadership: In the digitally advanced industry, data is king. Leaders need to be able to analyze and interpret large amounts of data in order to make informed decisions. Data-driven leaders are able to identify trends, track performance, and make data-backed decisions that drive growth. In conclusion, the digitally advanced industry requires a new kind of leadership. Leaders need to be visionary, collaborative, agile, data-driven, ethical, inclusive, and customer-centric. By embracing these leadership perspectives, organizations can stay ahead of the curve, drive innovation, and succeed in the rapidly evolving digital landscape. Ethical Leadership: As technology continues to transform the industry, leaders need to be aware of the ethical implications of their decisions. Ethical leaders are able to balance the needs of their organization with the needs of their customers, employees, and society as a whole. Ethical leadership is a style of leadership that emphasizes moral values and principles. It involves making decisions and taking actions that are based on ethical principles, and that prioritize the well-being of others. Increased Trust: Ethical leaders are more likely to be trusted by their employees, customers, and stakeholders. By demonstrating a commitment to ethical principles, leaders can build trust and establish strong relationships with those around them. Improved Reputation: Ethical leadership can enhance an organization's reputation. When leaders prioritize ethical behavior, they are more likely to be seen as trustworthy, credible, and reliable. This can help to attract customers and investors and can also help to retain employees. 18 www.ciolookindia.com

Unstoppable Women Leaders to Watch established in 1997. The merged firm was renamed ‘Udwadia Udeshi & Argus Partners’. In 2015 along with the change in the name of the firm to ‘Argus Partners’, the partners adopted the firm’s immutable core values of integrity, quality, and respect, which stand as the cornerstone of the firm in all its dealings. The firm has built a formidable reputation for its consistent high performance. The firm, the Partners and the associates have rich domestic and international experience, and have been recognized and awarded by several publications. Presence across India gives the firm a distinct advantage in serving its clientele which includes industry and business leaders in all segments of the market. The Professionally Empowering Corporate Legal Partner P your chosen path of career. Possessing these qualities in abundance, Nidhi Arya, a Partner at Argus Partners, has recently been recognized as a “Recommended Lawyer” for Banking & Finance by the Legal500 Asia-Pacific Rankings 2022. rofessional success is a culmination of following your interests with inquisitiveness, fascination, passion, and the constant pursuit of excellence in careers towards fighting for our independence. She adds, “These personalities stoked my inquisitiveness about the legal profession.” Nidhi graduated from Symbiosis Law School, Pune in the year 2008, and then went on to complete her L.L.M. (Master of Law) in International Finance Law from King’s College, London. “In law school, I realized that I had a passion for the profession. Though initially, I wanted to be a litigator, I later found that I had a knack for corporate law, which I practice till date due to the constant learning opportunities across a wide breadth of industries that I engage in.” When probed about challenges she faced while entering the legal profession viz-a- viz present challenges, Nidhi says as she self-reflects to the time when she had entered the legal space, there were… Further, her practice, i.e. Banking & Finance at Argus Partners, has won several awards and recognitions, including: Ÿ IFLR1000 2022, 2021 and 2020. Ÿ Top 50 Law Firms in India by Forbes India in its Legal Powerlist 2021, 2020. Ÿ Chambers & Partners Asia-Pacific 2021 & 2020. Ÿ Chambers & Partners Global Guide 2020. Ÿ Asia Law Profiles 2021, 2020 and 2018. Two Key Challenges that she faced as a budding lawyer: Nidhi started her legal career with Gagrats, Mumbai. Thereafter, she was a part of the international capital markets team at Rajani Associates, Mumbai, before joining Argus Partners in the year 2013. “I also believe that the legal profession is one of the few noble professions in India that demand a higher standard of conduct and integrity, which instils a sense of pride in me,” she says. Firstly, it was challenging for her to find her fit in this industry. The sheer number of practice areas and law firms in the corporate legal space can be daunting for a fresher. This is where internships play a vital role where freshers can immerse themselves across practice areas until they find their calling. “It is heartening to see that, today, internship programs are more advanced and regimented than they were when I was in law school.” The legal profession along with being a noble one is the most arduous area to function in. Yet, in the past decade that Nidhi has been with Argus Partners, she has been an integral part of the leadership and has actively participated in shaping the different policies which are currently in place at Argus Partners, including shaping the culture at the firm. She is excelling and setting benchmarks of higher accom- plishment in her practice areas of Banking and Finance, Real Estate, and General Corporate. Speaking about her law firm, Nidhi says that… Argus Partners Secondly, it took her a lot of time and effort to identify the right approach that could help her better understand the needs and pain points of her clients. This was critical to ensure that she structure solutions that meet their unique needs. She says, “As corporate lawyers, once we have a deep understanding of the business of our clients and how it's evolving, only then does it become easier to guide our clients through the traverse of law and the regulatory regime.” …is a leading Indian law firm with offices in Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, and Kolkata. Innovative thought leadership and the ability to build lasting relationships with all stakeholders are the key drivers of the firm. The professionals of the firm are business lawyers, who understand business and financial issues that help in identifying real risks and providing practical legal solutions to drive the growth of the clients’ business. An Inquisitively Inspirational Journey Nidhi Arya has been recognized as a ‘Recommended Lawyer’ for Banking & Finance by the Legal500 Asia- Pacific Rankings 2022. Sharing her inspiration behind venturing into the legal profession and mastering it with panache, Nidhi recalls that while growing up, she was always fascinated with eminent legal personalities who often appeared in the news and had a reputation for being the best in the high-profile matters of their time. Being a history buff and an avid reader in school, she was also inspired by lawyers who had dedicated their Today, as a partner in a law firm, the biggest challenge that she faces is maintaining her brand as an expert in her domain, since the market in India is now fiercely competitive. Relationships play a key role here. Personally, she has The firm is a result of the merger of two firms. In 2012 the firm Argus Partners merged with an existing Mumbai headquartered firm, Udwadia & Udeshi, which was 20 www.ciolookindia.com

had the opportunity to work in Mumbai and Kolkata, which has enabled her to build relationships in both these markets and maintain those relationships by leveraging technology to be more location-agnostic while servicing her clients. “Further, digital contracts, clickwrap agreements, e- signatures and e-filings have now become a common practice amongst corporates and businesses,” she says. An Extensively Powerful Growth Story A Brilliance of Legal Excellence Revealing specialities/factors that make her stand out as an influential personality in her field, Nidhi says that she is a first-generation lawyer with an extensive legal career of about 14 years that spans multiple practice areas. As a part of the core team, she has played an active role in the growth story of her firm for the past decade. “We started from 25 lawyers and are 200 lawyers strong today, across four cities,” she conveys. Briefing about the various specialized legal offerings, solutions, or services that she provides to her clientele, Nidhi says that within the sphere of banking and finance, she regularly advises large banks, non-banking financial companies and funds on debt transactions in both the stressed and non-stressed sectors, including corporate funding, construction finance, external commercial borrowings, issuance of non-convertible debentures and due diligence. Having worked in banking and finance, real estate and general corporate, she has managed to build her own brand. She adds, “I am now using this experience to groom the next generation of lawyers within my firm, while also creating opportunities for them.” She also has extensive experience within the real estate space, wherein she provides compliance-based advisory services to clients, especially in light of the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016 (RERA). She handles multiple transactions for townships and real estate projects, which include real estate financing, joint ventures, joint developments, leases, and RERA documentation. Nidhi offers her clients customer-centric solutions and delivers results with efficiency and speed. “This approach has allowed me to build strong relationships with some of the most prominent financial institutions within the country, while also venturing into new spaces.” She informs, “Within my general corporate practice, I have advised corporate houses on day-to-day matters, while also overlooking various corporate transactions in the fields of power, turnkey projects, and logistics.” Wisdom for the Future of Law In her advice to the aspiring legal enthusiasts who are willing to step into the legal space today, Nidhi feels that while a career in law can be demanding, the same is true for any professional services today. “My advice to aspiring lawyers would be to stay positive and focus on practice areas that they find interesting. For us lawyers, it takes time and patience to develop subject matter expertise in any practice area and this will eventually lead to building your own unique brand in the future.” Tech Legal Transformation Shedding light on the impact of technological advancements on the Law space, Nidhi says that in the pre-COVID times, much of the work within the legal industry was heavily reliant on face-to-face consultations, physical meetings, and hearings. The past two years have seen a sharp learning curve where new technologies are concerned as COVID forced courts and lawyers alike to adapt to remote ways of working. “More specifically, digital solutions such as virtual data rooms, servers and virtual meeting rooms have really changed the way that we work today.” Highlighting the current scenario of the Indian Legal Space, Nidhi shares that these are exciting times for lawyers with technology being at the centre of everything they do. What this presents are multiple pathways to learning new skill sets. “In recent times we have also seen the emergence of many new legal practice areas and specialties such as technology including fintech and digital payments, e- commerce, data privacy, cyber laws, ESG, climate action, etc. which have opened new opportunities for lawyers,” she concludes. According to her another great impact of technology on this profession is that lawyers are now no longer confined to businesses within their cities, with more work being accomplished through online meetings, virtual hearings and email interactions. Law firms are, therefore, no longer confined to geographies where they are present and have now started servicing clients in different markets. 22 www.ciolookindia.com

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Admirable Aspects S uccessful business organizations have been led by prominent influential leaders who have inspired and guided the teams towards focused working and delivering the best services. Researchers have identified the crucial change of the mindset towards broader and holistic thinking, to have accelerated the productivity of the organization powered by stoic leadership. leaders like Gautam Adani from Adani Group, Roshni Nadar of HCL Infosystems, Mukesh Ambani of Reliance Group, Falguni Nayar of Naykaa, Ratan Tata, Chairman Tata Group, Anand Mahindra MD Mahindra Group, Kiran Mazumdar Shaw of Biocon Ltd and more. It is interesting to understand the various traits of successful businesswomen that have been noticed in their unique leadership approaches. Understanding the Traits that There are several organizations that have been steered by influential leaders on the path of gradual progress, coming out to be effective, prominent, and significant in the aspects of innovation, product development, services, and client satisfaction. The list goes long with new names getting added in the business era heralded by a series of dynamic Strong Self Belief Successful leaders are practical thinkers having a strong self-belief in making things happen. Knowing the various aspects of the organization from the depth of operations, the leaders are very focused and specific about executing the plans. Track and monitor the systems to prepare the required strategies. Leaders reflect amazing confidence in their communication and behaviour. Their preparedness in every meeting and the day-to-day business functions reflects their finesse and control over the discussion. This belief portrays their ability to maneuver various challenges and succeed in the business. Approaches Presentable Professionals Business leaders are always nicely groomed and well- presented saying a lot about themselves. It shows that they have got everything in control and take pride in their appearance. Good dressing reflects their self-respect. 32 www.ciolookindia.com 33 www.ciolookindia.com

Support Others Successful leaders promptly support their team members; they encourage other people to learn and take up higher responsibilities in business and more often in helping others climb the corporate ladder. Modern leaders who have achieved success recognize and appreciate the hurdles their peers will have to overcome and guide them accordingly. Business leaders allow the employees to identify the work from a different perspective and apply creative thoughts from their active involvement in the work. Business leaders are never short of anything but pristine and stylish – in fact, everyone is likely to catch these leaders on the ‘best dressed’ celebrities of some great event. The dressing, shoes, accessories, methods of using the gadgets, posture, and movements all reflect a class of their level. The complete personality portrays an inspiring aura that motivates and impresses the people around. Business today is about a lot more than being good at the job; it’s about building a personal own brand as well as that of the organization as well. Passionate Managers Looking at the business from a commercial enterprise to a solution powerhouse, today’s business leaders have displayed amazing talent in their high degree of involvement in organizational operations. Developing a clear understanding, they identify an outcome that would offer the best possible solution to the intended purpose to the clients, and everyone involved in the chain. Openly brainstorm with the teams, and help in generating new possibilities of better and more efficient working, the leaders ensure cracking the best possible ‘improved’ solution adding substance to the working objectives. Welcome Challenges Openly Business leaders are fierce performers themselves in finishing the tasks from their ‘To-Do’ list. This quality makes them unmatched professionals who remain far ahead in their deliveries and execution. They are very adept and agile in handling several types of challenges. It so happens that as they complete one from the list, another three appear at the bottom with their own timelines. They don’t see any problem with this either, but rather enjoy re-prioritizing the task list thereby pushing themselves to see what they can achieve. Understanding that not everything on the to-do list will be accomplished but will be completed sooner is also a sign of their strength. Healthy Work-Life Balance Progressive business leaders with successful careers have a healthy work-life balance. They are not the first ones to wind off the day early and head for some enjoyment, but they are the experts in maintaining a healthy balance in their work and personal lives. Keeping both things separate and clearly defined, they lead lives with proper planning and distribution of priorities. They are also flexible in juggling between priorities when they team up for the late- night presentation of the board meeting or work hard to meet the commitments of the employees, vendors, clients, and even investors. This comes down to the fact that they prioritize what’s important and make time for a life out of work. That time out allows for perspective and gives women with high-powered, stressful careers the opportunity to unwind and refocus when necessary. VOL-11 | ISSUE-08 | 2023 Know Your Leader Comprehending the Leadership Perspectives in Digitally Advanced Industry Admirable Aspects Understanding the Traits that Signify Impeccable Leadership Approaches I N D I A Seema Dr Fostering Avirat Projects Solu?ons as A Beacon of Diversity and Inclusion for Women Entrepreneurship ngh www.ciolookindia.com 34 www.ciolookindia.com

Unstoppable Women Leaders to Watch T Stuti Dhyani Partner Saikrishna & Associates here is no one best solution that would fit all in the legal arena, only completely customer-centric optimal solutions. This is what Stuti Dhyani ardently believes in. As the Partner at Saikrishna & Associates, she has comprehensively learned this fine distinction. According to her, it is important to realize early on that the best solution for one may not be the most optimal solution for the other; hence, "We need to understand our audience before any advice. With a decade of practice, I believe one naturally learns the pulse of the authorities one is dealing with and can offer the optimal advice most suited for one's client.” I believe I have always put an amalgamation of my technical prowess, my love for words, and the ability to think beyond what exists on the table to offer the most optimal solution to the client. Stuti's legal expertise's USPs makes her stand out as an influential lawyer in the industry, and especially as a Partner; Stuti leads the ICT, Computer Science, and telecommunication vertical at the firm and looks after the end-to-end services, be it drafting, prosecution, or dispute resolution when it comes to Patent Law. Protecting Your Intellectual Genius Adding on the traits of an influential lawyer, she says that creativity is intrinsic, but with the right intention, it can also be cultivated. "I believe I have always put an amalgamation of my technical prowess, my love for words, and the ability to think beyond what exists on the table to offer the most optimal solution to the client.” forms a fine nexus with adding value to society at large, leading to fulfilling your life purpose. In the patent space, there are fine nuances between the monopoly of rights and the abuse of dominant position that one must understand. The differentiator between the two can often be conflated and blurred, and comprehending this can be very nebulous. As an ardent Indian patent professional, Stuti strives to galvanize awareness of the fine balance so that whilst the proprietor's rights are not compromised, the commoner and the society generally don't hang by a thread either. "This is both challenging and rewarding at the same time.” Another leg to this discussion is championing the cause of not just getting any claim or patent granted but getting an enforceable claim or patent granted. The arduous work of protecting your innovation doesn't end with a granted claim or patent but infact, begins only with its enforceability. "With being neck-deep into SEP litigations, we are made aware of how crucial this fact is on quite a daily basis and realize how it is the crying need of the hour," she feels. Stuti Stuti Dhyani Legally Techno Logical Journey Other than her primary role stated earlier, Stuti has copiously contributed to creating awareness of the firm's patent practice, attending various national and international conferences and seminars, and journaling important patent updates. Being deeply entrenched in the field and developing a pragmatic viewpoint in dealing with the court and patent office officers regularly has given her the vantage point to provide strategic advisories on patent law. Saikrishna & Associates is a full-service law firm specializing in Intellectual Property, Telecommunication Media and Technology, Corporate Law, and Competition in Noida, Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore in India. "Started by our Managing Partner, Mr. Sairkrishna Rajagopal, in 2001, the firm has grown by leaps and bounds across verticals and locations," informs Stuti, an IT engineer, a lawyer by education and a patent attorney/lawyer by profession. However, a Partner at Saikrishna is much more than someone who has made their mark in law and technology. Moving up in Maslow's hierarchy of needs, one is motivated by self-actualization. This self-actualization Her inclination towards IPR, particularly patents, seemed a natural step after earning her Engineering degree because An Ardent Legal Advisor Offering the Most Optimal Solutions 36 www.ciolookindia.com 37 www.ciolookindia.com

this step allowed her to combine her predilection for Technology, passion for words, and love of protecting the rights of researchers and scientists alike. computer programming and probably would never be fully satisfied being a coder. However, with the advent of AI-based applications, such as chatgpt, technological advancement has reached a new height. There are speculations that it could dilute the need for lawyers, but however good technological progress may be, it cannot replace a human mind with the creativity one desires. Stuti interned at Anand and Anand, Noida, as a part of her 5th-semester subject, and it dawned on her that she was much intrigued by the theoretical aspect of computer science and the ongoing research and innovation that is incrementing our lives. After her 8th semester, she declined her other IT offers and took up the job at Anand and Anand. She started her career at Anand and Anand Advocates, Noida, in 2011. She was intensively involved in drafting and prosecuting patent applications and contentious matters- appeals, invalidations, and litigation representing some major software and telecom giants across the globe. After that, she joined Saikrishna & Associates, Noida, in 2019 as an Associate Partner. The Law Full Wisdom Way Ahead In her advice to the budding legal professionals aspiring to step into the legal field today, Stuti thinks that young professionals need no advice; they are extremely hardworking, industrious, and diligent and are equipped with anything at their command. "But if I can offer my two cents, it is that before anyone else, stay true to yourself. I believe that is where we falter because misleading oneself can cause much-unwarranted agony. It is easy to get overwhelmed by what is prevalent, so if we can appreciate our strengths and embrace our weaknesses, we can make great strides in this industry.” During her tenure at Anand and Anand, to further augment her skills, Stuti pursued law and ultimately passed the Bar in 2017. When she entered this field in 2011, this was still an upcoming arena in law, with not many people cognizant of this. The competition was sparse, and the opportunities were still exploratory. Stuti reflects, "However, I believe for a student of science and technology, with no formal education in law at first, it can take some time to wrap their heads around the law per se and its application to technology thereof. I must admit that there has been a sea change in awareness since then, with many patent agents and engineers/scientists who already come with combined degrees before starting their careers.” At Saikrishna, Stuti has had the fortune of garnering extensive experience in involving herself at the end to end of the patent spectrum ranging from analytics, searches, drafting, standard essential patent evaluation, claim chart mapping, patent licensing, and monetization. She has also been involved in prosecution before the Patent office, in contentious matters before the erstwhile Appellate board and the current Intellectual Property Division (IPD) of the Delhi High Court (DHC), and in hard-core litigation, especially in Standard Essential Patents and FRAND before the Court of Law. Notably, she has prosecuted nearly 6000 patent applications on computer-related inventions and telecommunications with a whopping success rate. Briefing about her specialized services, Stuti says at Saikrishna they are a diversified team of engineers, lawyers, and patent agents who run into multiple technical domains and are adept at Patents and Designs filing, Prosecution, litigation, prosecution and litigation advisory, Illustration Drawings, Patent drafting, Patentability searches, Invalidity searches, Freedom to operate searches, Risk Analysis, Competitive analytics. They also routinely assist in filing and prosecuting in other countries through their foreign associates. They cater to automotive, computer science, telecommunication, electronics, chemistry-pharma, life sciences, agriculture, and material sciences, to name a few. They are deep into drafting of complex inventions on AI and ML and 5G/6G technology, Standard Essential Patent (SEP) and FRAND litigation and various Alternate Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms, such as mediation and negotiations. Focus on finding a true mentor. Having a mentor to help you wade through the waters even when you think you may know everything is a boon in today's day and age. There are many unexplored areas where one can find their niche. It is akin to developing a taste or distaste for a subject, depending on how good your teacher at school was! That being said, she adds that techno-legal professionals must never lose sight of the fact that while technology advances at a galloping speed, the law needs to keep pace with it. "The law, especially if I were to talk about the Patent law, was enacted in 1970, and the Patent Rules have been constantly revised since 2016." The law was enacted to offer protection to technology with an exclusion to a certain category of invention, keeping in mind the socio- economic structure of our country then. Following the 2005 Doha Declaration, India became a member of the TRIPS with a certain embargo on some kinds of inventions. She has also had the rare opportunity to be a resource person for Induction and Training for Judges of the High Court and District Courts in India's IPR policy at the National Judicial Academy (NJA), Bhopal. Besides this, she has also delivered lectures at various universities, start-ups, research, and financial institutions to increase protection awareness in building patent-implemented inventions. And lastly, but most importantly,s know why you are doing what you are doing. “At times, when I conduct interviews, I realize there is little to no focal point to the discussion with some professionals when they are asked to comment on the 'why' behind something,” she adds. The Dynamic Aspect Her dabbling into various arenas of patents has given Stuti the latitude to perform in almost any capacity–from being a representative at the Indian Patent Office, the Intellectual Property Division, and the High Court for clients across the world. The Smartness Quotient Regarding the current and future scenarios, Stuti believes that the Indian legal industry is a work in progress, as is any legal sector of any other country. "The Indian Jurisprudence, and I can speak for patent jurisprudence, has developed substantially in the last five years like some much-lauded decisions by the Delhi High Court on the formation of the Confidentiality Club, the Anti- Anti Suit Injunction, claim amendments and divisional applications, but we still have a long way ahead," she concludes. While sharing her opinion on tech advancement in the law field, Stuti says that technology has played a vital role in the legal industry. It has increased the efficiency of legal offices and the productivity of clerical workers. It has also improved accuracy and ensured greater transparency within and outside the firms. "The advent of technology is most welcoming when it helps the world and our legal ecosystem go green.” "We can all appreciate that the technology and the nature of inventions, both incremental and disruptive, have evolved significantly since then. The economy of India can also be re-evaluated to determine the relevance of the laws protecting our IPRs." At any rate, the need of the hour is to ensure that the law protecting these IPRs is also dynamically fine-tuned so that they don't become discrepant with the very technology they aim to protect. "While the Patent Rules' slew of amendments since 2016 till now have brought much respite in addressing procedural deficiencies, we can hope for revised legislation such that the laws don't become antiquated.” Intrinsically Cultivated Intelligence Despite having seen the legalese while growing up, it had little impact on Stuti's decision to venture into the legal space. On the contrary, she resorted to a different route and pursued engineering in Information Technology. While she was able to secure offers from various software companies in her pre-final year of engineering, she had an epiphany that she wasn't so inclined towards application-based With cloud migration, the need to maintain physical files has been eliminated. This change is not just evident in law firms but also in some courts too. It has enabled people to work remotely when needed and has far-reaching effects in ensuring job satisfaction. 38 www.ciolookindia.com 39 www.ciolookindia.com

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Unstoppable Women Leaders to Watch

Unstoppable Women Leaders to Watch

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