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Tyrilly Csillag: A Transformative Leader in the Legal Field
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Legal Trailblazers: Women Making Waves in the Legal Field, 2024 FORTUNES TIME November 2024 PAGE NO. 18 Champion of Justice in Matrimonial and Family Law Tyrilly A Transformative Leader in the Legal Field Csillag Director Legal Transformation www.fortunestime.com
EDITOR’S NOTE Morality, legal expertise, enthusiasm, and a drive to deliver the finest legal services are just a few of the attributes that make an attorney successful and well-respected. Financial success is a possible aspect of a successful legal career, but prioritizing your clients' well-being, reputation, and professional growth is more important. Taking Legal Profession to New Heights Aspiring attorneys frequently aim to become well-known attorneys, but success of this caliber requires more than just tenacity and diligence. To become a well-known and respected lawyer, one needs a strong reputation, a strong network, and constant learning and development. A good corporate attorney has to have a wide variety of knowledge, connections, skills, and experience. The fact that the law of the lid is naturally adaptable is reassuring. To believe that your current position as a leader is the best use of your abilities would be foolish. Leaders can always do better, but it will need constant dedication and a strong work ethic. Fortunes Time's latest edition “Legal Trailblazers: Women Making Waves in the Legal Field, 2024” highlighted women lawyers who are addressing and fostering a more welcoming and encouraging atmosphere for leadership and business in legal sector. The cover has Tyrilly Csillag who stands out for her dedication to innovation and excellence, establishing herself as a pivotal force in the future of legal practice and business integration. With more than a decade of experience working with multinational corporations, national enterprises, and government entities, Tyrilly has developed a deep expertise in navigating complex legal and business challenges. Her career trajectory, from early legal practice to a key role in legal innovation, highlights her exceptional adaptability and proficiency across a wide range of legal environments. Embarking on a double degree in Business and Law straight out of high school in Sydney, Australia, Tyrilly's passion for internet and law—an emerging field at the time—guided her initial career choices. Her early roles as a paralegal and in litigation provided a solid foundation, leading her to a significant in-house position at Foxtel. Here, she quickly realized the importance of aligning legal advice with business needs and stakeholder communication. Also, while you flip through the pages, don't forget to read the articles created by our in-house editorial staff and industry experts. Have a Lovely Read!
FORTUNES T IME CREDIT PAGE Elizabeth Graves Editor-in-Chief Vijay Khulpe Managing Editor Dafny Meyer Tony Anderson Executive Editor Assistant Editor Art & Design Director Head of Design Department Charles Lee Sanket Zirpe Associate Designer Sarah Jones Business Development Manager Business Development Executive Ellen Louise Robert Taylor Digital Marketing Manager Laura Wright Albert Hill Sales Manager Marketing Manager Stacey Flores Jennifer Thomas Carol Green Technical Specialist Circulation Manager November 2024 For More Details : Email: info@fortunestime.com Address. 8 The Green Suite R, Dover, DE 19901, USA Copyright 2024 Fortunes Time, 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 Fortunes Time Reprint rights remain solely with Fortunes Time.
Cover Story 08 Tyrilly Csillag A Transforma?ve Leader in the Legal Field
CONTENTS 22 18 Sari Friedman Edyta Kniżewska 32 28 Earlean Laster Rochelle Friedman Walk 44 38 Angelika Hellweger Cindy Watson
TYRILLY CSILLAG A Transformative Leader in the Legal Field 08 | November 2024
COVER STORY Fortunestime.com | 09
In the world of corporate law, Tyrilly Csillag stands out for her dedication to innovation and excellence, establishing herself as a pivotal force in the future of legal practice and business integration. With more than a decade of experience working with multinational corporations, national enterprises, and government entities, Tyrilly has developed a deep expertise in navigating complex legal and business challenges. Her career trajectory, from early legal practice to a key role in legal innovation, highlights her exceptional adaptability and proficiency across a wide range of legal environments. Embarking on a double degree in Business and Law straight out of high school in Sydney, Australia, Tyrilly's passion for internet and law—an emerging field at the time—guided her initial career choices. Her early roles as a paralegal and in litigation provided a solid foundation, leading her to a significant in-house position at Foxtel. Here, she quickly realized the importance of aligning legal advice with business needs and stakeholder communication. Harnessing Language for Change and Impact Tyrilly's journey is marked by a deep respect for the power of the written word. This reverence is not merely an abstract appreciation but a lived experience shaped by a lifelong passion for reading and a profound interest in history. For Tyrilly, language is not just a tool but a bridge to understanding and shaping the world. The pursuit of a law degree further crystallized this fascination. Law, steeped in centuries of historical evolution, provides a framework of rules and principles that govern society. It is a field where language and history converge, revealing the intricate ways in which legal systems reflect and influence human behavior and societal norms. In studying law, Tyrilly honed critical thinking skills and learned to wield language with precision and power. This academic journey wasn't just about mastering legal doctrines but about developing the ability to craft arguments, interpret texts, and influence outcomes—skills that extend far beyond the courtroom. Tyrilly's law degree has become a testament to how the written word can be harnessed to drive change, articulate complex ideas, and leave a lasting impact. A brief return to private practice allowed Tyrilly to further sharpen her legal skills before moving into a comprehensive in- house role at IBM, where she engaged with virtually every aspect of the business. Since joining Thomson Reuters in 2017, her role evolved from senior lawyer writer in Practical Law Australia to Director of Legal Transformation. In this capacity, she has leveraged her extensive legal and business experience to enhance the firm's legal resources and drive significant transformation across Thomson Reuters. Through this lens, Tyrilly views the written word as a potent vehicle for both recording history and shaping the future. The insights gained from this dual perspective—rooted in historical understanding and legal acumen—continue to fuel a commitment to using language as a means of connection, influence, and transformation. Fortunestime.com | 11
A Cornerstone for Legal Precision and Confidence Tyrilly states that Thomson Reuters is a cornerstone for legal professionals seeking to navigate the complexities of their field with precision and confidence. “Our customers trust Thomson Reuters to provide accurate, reliable, and secure solutions,” Tyrilly asserts. “We bring decades of technological and subject-matter expertise to the table, ensuring that our clients can access the most advanced tools and insights available.” CoCounsel, Legal Tracker, HighQ, Practical Law, and Westlaw. Tyrilly's day-to-day responsibilities reflect her commitment to advancing legal transformation. She engages with the broader legal community through thought leadership, presenting at high-profile industry events and maintaining accessibility to key decision- makers. Her role involves not only advocating for the adoption of innovative legal technologies but also providing strategic support to law firms and legal teams as they navigate their transformation journeys. Through her expertise and proactive engagement, Tyrilly ensures that legal professionals are equipped with the latest solutions to enhance efficiency, drive innovation, and stay ahead in a rapidly evolving field. Thomson Reuters excels in delivering not just technology, but a comprehensive suite of solutions tailored to meet the diverse needs of the legal industry. From cutting-edge legal research tools to robust productivity solutions, matter management software, and legal spend management systems, the company equips legal professionals with the resources they need to excel. The focus is on reducing inefficiencies and adding substantial value to stakeholders by anticipating future challenges and adapting swiftly. The Value of Diverse Experiences in Modern Legal Careers Traditionally, a legal career followed a well-trodden path: beginning as a paralegal or graduate, progressing to Associate, advancing to Senior Associate, and ultimately aiming for partnership within a law firm. This linear trajectory was once seen as the pinnacle of professional achievement for many lawyers. However, Tyrilly's career has taken a distinctive turn from this conventional route. Instead of following the traditional path to partnership, she opted to explore the role of in-house counsel early in her career. “Our mission is to empower legal professionals and their teams to harness the full potential of our technology and content solutions,” Tyrilly explains. “By providing trusted answers faster, we help our clients make high- stakes decisions with greater confidence and drive productivity.” Through its commitment to innovation and reliability, Thomson Reuters stands as a pivotal ally for those navigating the evolving landscape of law, ensuring that they are not only equipped to address current demands but also prepared to meet future challenges head-on. In today's legal landscape, the value of diverse experiences across various workplaces, industries, and roles is increasingly recognized by employers. The key challenge now lies in identifying roles that align with one's personal values and purpose and effectively demonstrating how one's skillset can drive success in these positions. Tyrilly's career trajectory exemplifies how embracing alternative paths and leveraging a broad range of experiences can lead to significant professional opportunities and impact, underscoring the evolving nature of career development in the legal field. Equipping Legal Professionals for Success In her role as Director of Legal Transformation at Thomson Reuters, Tyrilly is a pivotal figure in the legal technology landscape, shaping the future of the industry with her forward-thinking approach. She serves as a conduit between the legal community and cutting-edge technological solutions, offering invaluable insights into industry trends and connecting legal professionals with Thomson Reuters' suite of advanced tools, including 12 | November 2024
Streamlining Legal Practice Through Innovative Solutions Tyrilly's role is pivotal in this transformation, ensuring that legal professionals are equipped with the tools and insights needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving legal landscape. Legal transformation represents a crucial journey for all legal teams, focused on enhancing effectiveness with a forward-looking perspective. For Tyrilly, this journey unfolds in three interconnected dimensions: the individuals who make up the team, the technology that empowers these individuals, and the organization that benefits from their collective efforts. This framework is applicable to both private practice and in-house legal environments. Bridging the Gap Between Tradition and Innovation One of the most formidable challenges in Tyrilly's role is navigating the resistance from lawyers entrenched in a corporate culture that resists evolving practices. This challenge is particularly pronounced with the rise of generative AI, which has sparked a divide between those adopting new methodologies and those maintaining a cautious 'wait and see' approach. The rapid advancement of generative AI technology in the legal sector means that those hesitant to embrace these changes risk being outpaced by their more progressive counterparts. At Thomson Reuters, the mission is to demystify complexity and provide solutions that streamline legal practice, making it more efficient, enjoyable, and strategically aligned. By focusing on these core areas, Thomson Reuters helps lawyers maximize their effectiveness and better support their organizations in navigating the future. 14 | November 2024
At Thomson Reuters, Tyrilly leverages the extensive research and market insights provided by the Thomson Reuters Institute to address these challenges. Her role involves educating the legal industry about emerging trends and reassuring professionals that Thomson Reuters offers the expertise and tools necessary to navigate this transformative period. By partnering with legal teams at various stages of their transformation journey, Tyrilly helps bridge the gap between existing practices and future-ready solutions, ensuring that firms can confidently move forward in an increasingly dynamic legal landscape. technological transition from early computers to the internet. In comparison, the pace at which genAI is reshaping legal practice is unprecedented. GenAI is revolutionizing every facet of the legal profession—from the training and development of junior lawyers to shifting client expectations and redefining the value of legal services. According to Thomson Reuters, the near future will see all lawyers working with a genAI legal assistant, highlighting the critical shift in the role of legal technology. What was once considered an auxiliary tool is now essential for delivering effective legal services. This rapid technological advancement underscores the necessity for legal professionals to adapt quickly and leverage genAI to stay competitive and meet evolving demands. The Power of Gratitude in Leadership Tyrilly's personal leadership philosophy is rooted in the principle of 'an attitude of gratitude.' Having had the privilege of working with exceptional leaders throughout her career, Tyrilly has come to deeply appreciate the importance of making team members feel valued, acknowledged, and confident. This philosophy underscores her approach to leadership, emphasizing that every event hosted, presentation delivered, and legal solution implemented is the result of the collective effort of numerous talented individuals. Igniting Innovation Tyrilly takes immense pride and finds great fulfillment in initiating conversations with lawyers, knowing that from that moment, their perspectives on legal practice are about to expand. Witnessing the excitement as lawyers explore new ways of working and envision the future of their practice is a gratifying experience. Another rewarding aspect of her role is seeing a lawyer implement a legal solution that resolves a significant pain point, accompanied by genuine gratitude for the team's support. For Tyrilly, fostering a culture of kindness and respect is fundamental. She believes that regardless of one's role, it is crucial to recognize and appreciate the contributions of others. This inclusive and appreciative mindset not only enhances team morale but also drives collective success, ensuring that every individual's efforts are acknowledged and celebrated. At Thomson Reuters, building strong partnerships with clients is a core value. Tyrilly and her team are dedicated to fostering a community that shares their passion for empowering lawyers and enhancing the value they provide to their clients. This collaborative approach not only addresses immediate challenges but also contributes to the broader goal of advancing the legal profession and improving client outcomes. How Generative AI Is Shaping the Future of Law The most profound technological influence on legal services today is the rapid evolution of generative AI (genAI) and its swift integration into the legal industry. Tyrilly observes a unique phenomenon in the field: for the first time in history, there are five generations of lawyers practicing simultaneously, each witnessing the 16 | November 2024
Call for Legal Professionals to Master Generative AI Tyrilly advocates for lawyers of all experience levels and across various industries to cultivate their curiosity about how legal technology can revolutionize their work and enhance client service. Reflecting on the past emphasis on digital literacy, she underscores that in 2024 and beyond, a robust understanding of generative AI (genAI) is essential. As the legal landscape evolves, mastering genAI tools will become a fundamental skill crucial to future success. Tyrilly emphasizes that developing a deep proficiency with these technologies will be integral to thriving in the legal profession, making it vital for lawyers to embrace and explore the transformative potential of genAI in their practices. Guidance on Pursuing Passion in Law Tyrilly asserts the importance for aspiring legal professionals to pursue careers that align with their passions, values, and interests. For those interested in roles similar to hers in the legal industry, she advises that loving what you do, where you work, and with whom you work is crucial for long-term career satisfaction and success. She encourages individuals to follow their passion and actively seek opportunities to expand and build their skill set. By doing so, they can pursue roles that not only energize them but also create meaningful impact and align with their broader purpose. This approach ensures that their career is both fulfilling and impactful, driving personal and professional growth in the legal field. Fortunestime.com | 17
Sari M. Friedman Champion of Justice in Matrimonial and Family Law Fortunestime.com | 19
Friedman, joined as a partner, managing the Westchester office. Their practice continues to specialize in matrimonial and family law, addressing issues such as divorce, custody, and property distribution. Sari chose this field because it deals directly with real-life problems and is inherently people-oriented. Throughout her career, Sari has been a staunch advocate for clients seeking equal rights in custody and parenting time. Early in her practice, she represented numerous fathers in a system that was predominantly biased towards mothers, advocating for more equitable arrangements. Thanks to her efforts, there is now broader recognition of joint legal custody and more balanced sharing of parenting time, including mid-week overnights and, in many cases, primary custody for fathers when circumstances warrant. In legal sector, a one-size-fits-all approach rarely works. "What people need most is an attorney who will fight hard for them," says Sari M. Friedman, the founder of Friedman & Friedman PLLC, Attorneys at Law. With over 35 years of experience in matrimonial and family law, Sari understands the intricacies and emotional complexities involved in these cases. As a mother of two, she deeply values the significance of family and is dedicated to protecting the rights of both children and parents. However, Sari's expertise and reputation extend far beyond representing only fathers. Over the years, she has also become a zealous and highly skilled advocate for many women. Her dedication to justice and fairness in family law has led numerous women to seek her representation. Sari's practice is inclusive and committed to serving both men and women with the same level of fervor and proficiency, ensuring that all her clients receive the best possible advocacy and support in their legal matters. Admitted to the New York State Bar in February 1981, Sari holds a BA from Hofstra University, earned in 1977, and a law degree from Hofstra University School of Law, where she graduated with honors and was a member of the Law Review. Her early career included clerking for the Appellate Division Second Department from 1980 to 1984, where she honed her skills in appellate litigation. In 1984, she transitioned to private practice, focusing on matrimonial and family law. Meeting Families' Unique Needs Sari's dedication to her clients and her relentless pursuit of justice makes her a formidable presence in the field of family law, ensuring that each family's unique needs are met with compassion and expertise. Sari and her dedicated team serve the Long Island community, assisting families with a range of family law matters, including divorce, child custody, child support, alimony, and fathers' rights. She recognizes that each case is unique, providing personalized Before founding Friedman & Friedman PLLC, Sari operated as Sari M. Friedman P.C. The firm became Friedman & Friedman PLLC when her daughter, Andrea 20 | November 2024
attention and crafting customized legal strategies to meet the specific needs of her clients. Fighting Hard and Caring Personally About Outcomes Sari highlights what distinguishes Friedman & Friedman PLLC: professionalism, a commitment to quality work, and rigorous oversight of the actions of lawyers and employees. "We fight hard for our clients, care personally about the outcomes, and are always dedicated to delivering the best work possible," Sari asserts. As the managing partner for the Long Island office, she ensures everything operates smoothly and efficiently. At Friedman & Friedman PLLC, cases are handled through a collaborative team approach. Each case is assigned to both Sari and one of her partners, ensuring clients have consistent points of contact and access to their legal team. This method allows for meticulous management of the caseload, ensuring that all tasks and court appearances are handled promptly and effectively. know I am outspoken in court on their behalf, ensuring their positions are clearly communicated and defended. They never feel that we have failed to advocate for them," Sari emphasizes. This commitment to client advocacy and case management underscores the firm's reputation for excellence in family law. Guiding Clients Through Complex Issues Friedman & Friedman PLLC has handled several notable cases that underscore its expertise and impact in family law. Sari Friedman shares examples such as Justino v. Justino, where the firm successfully argued that a parent should receive a dollar- for-dollar credit toward room and board against child support payments. In court, Sari and her team are known for their aggressive advocacy, a trait highly valued and appreciated by their clients. This robust representation is a key reason the firm enjoys a high referral rate from current and former clients. "Clients Fortunestime.com | 21
Edyta Knizewska Offering Expert Derivatives Consultancy for Seamless Trading Relationships I believe that life starts at the edge of your comfort zone. Conquering my self-limiting beliefs and fears is a continuous learning process for me.” 22 | November 2024
IT Legal was founded by Edyta Kniżewska, a derivatives lawyer with extensive experience in the buy- side, sell-side, and private practice. After A Boutique Legal Consultancy Balancing Roles Inside and Outside the Workplace FIT Legal, founded by Edyta and her business partner Neal Lodhia, is a boutique legal consultancy providing customized derivatives documentation and business consulting solutions globally. Edyta's extensive experience in strategic launches, regulatory projects, and business transformations prepared her for this entrepreneurial venture. FIT Legal's success prompted the launch of "Derivatives Lab" (DLAB), a pioneering online educational platform offering valuable knowledge about the legal aspects of the banking and finance industry. DLAB provides real-world strategies and insights to excel in the derivatives sector and the ISDA Lab course was successfully launched in October 2023, focusing on ISDA Master Agreement negotiations. Edyta acknowledges the multiple roles she plays daily, both in her professional and personal life. She upholds the same values and principles in all areas. Caring and empathetic, she strives for progress rather than perfection. Treating others as she would like to be treated is an essential aspect of her character. She balances pragmatism and business acumen with passion and creativity. Constantly seeking personal development, Edyta is a professional member of Mindvalley and enrolled in a Negotiation Mastery course at Harvard Business School Online, aiming to enhance her negotiation skills for the benefit of her clients. Both FIT Legal and Derivatives Lab serve as platforms for her growth as a leader and legal counsel. establishing her career in commercial litigation, Edyta discovered a specialized niche in trading agreements and derivative negotiations. She became a legal counsel and negotiator for Credit Suisse in the field of derivatives before moving to Man Group plc. Edyta's expertise in banking and finance further advanced her career in the derivatives market. With the aim of positively disrupting the collaboration between sell-side and buy-side participants, FIT Legal assists market players in navigating the complexities of trading relationships and derivatives documentation. They achieve this by providing structured and tailored solutions to negotiations, resulting in quicker time-to-market for their clients. Continuous Growth as a Legal Consultant Role as the Founder Edyta's journey of growth began during her childhood in Poland when she witnessed the fall of communism, inspiring her to see the world as full of possibilities and potential. As a legal consultant, she continues to challenge herself and her team to stay at the top of their game in the derivatives market, especially in their niche of trading agreements. They actively track regulatory and legal developments in the asset management sector and collaborate with industry experts to deepen their knowledge and expertise. Embracing new technologies like machine learning and AI helps FIT Legal deliver efficient and cost- effective solutions to their clients. Additionally, Edyta values the growth opportunity that comes from sharing knowledge through Derivatives Lab. As the founder of FIT Legal, Edyta's vision was born from her extensive experience in the legal, banking, and finance industry, coupled with her passion for providing tailored derivatives documentation and business consulting solutions globally. Being the founder comes with a great sense of responsibility, and Edyta takes pride in the consultancy's growth into a globally recognized firm. Breaking Barriers and Pursuing International Career Edyta Kniżewska's early life in Poland was shaped by hardworking and inspiring women in her family. Unwilling to conform to societal gender norms, she aimed for independence and a successful international career. After winning an international scholarship, she studied law in the UK and gained experience in Commercial Litigation. However, it was her discovery of a niche in trading agreements and derivatives that inspired her to focus on banking and finance, leading to a significant career growth. FIT Legal's culture and values are deeply rooted in the people-oriented approach. The company, being family- run, prioritizes clients' best interests and focuses on building long-lasting relationships. “We have created a collaborative and innovative environment at FIT Legal, 24 | November 2024
one that encourages autonomy and independence among our team of experienced consultants. This culture is central to our commitment to delivering high-quality, cutting-edge business and legal advice in a cost-efficient and remote-friendly manner,” says Edyta. Addressing Gender Imbalance and Bias Overcoming Self-Limitations Edyta highlights that while women lawyers constitute approximately 51% of the profession, they hold less than 32% of senior roles, indicating a gender imbalance in the legal sector. However, she sees this as an exciting time for women, especially in the asset management niche, where gender diversity is increasingly recognized as vital for success. Despite progress, the lack of women in top legal positions, particularly in corporate, banking, and finance sectors, remains a concern. Social bias, both conscious and unconscious, plays a significant role in hindering women's advancement. Myths and stereotypes persist, affecting women's opportunities and aspirations. Edyta acknowledges that biases cannot be entirely eradicated but emphasizes the importance of collective efforts to counteract them and promote equality. While facing various challenges in her career, Edyta identifies her own limitations and discomforts as the most significant barrier to overcome. Edyta says: “I believe that life starts at the edge of your comfort zone. Conquering my self-limiting beliefs and fears is a continuous learning process for me.” Edyta seeks growth through the guidance of an exceptional business coach and strives to improve her mindset daily. By doing so, she ensures that she can provide her clients, students, business partners, and family with the best advice and approach. The Joy of Being an Entrepreneur As an entrepreneur, Edyta enjoys the freedom of structuring her daily routine. She emphasizes discipline, self-awareness, and multitasking skills but acknowledges the occasional distractions. To maintain a varied and challenging day, she includes diverse tasks for different clients and projects. Reflecting on the happiest part of her daily routine, Edyta said: “It has to be spending time with my son in the morning when we share joyful moments making pancakes, laughing, and playing together. This is such a precious time, and it allows me to start the day with a positive mind set, setting the tone for the rest of the day. I prioritizes physical well-being by going to the gym and taking morning walks for mental clarity.” Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is made easier because FIT Legal is a family-run business. Edyta works closely with her husband, sharing well-defined roles and responsibilities. They collaborate on projects, driving the company's strategy together. This dynamic allows them to smoothly transition from business to personal life each day, fostering trust, respect, and care among their team and clients. Fortunestime.com | 25
and acquisitions has made her a well-known figure in the industry. She has represented some of the biggest aggregators since their founding and is frequently considered as the go-to lawyer for Amazon FBA sellers in e- commerce transactions. As an impartial mediator or arbiter, she has assisted company owners and partners in resolving conflicts and disagreements pertaining to buy- sell agreements, partner or member buyouts, and new partner or member admissions for LLCs, partnerships, and corporations. Her peers have also designated her as a Super Lawyer. Rochelle is a committed volunteer in her free time, and the Tampa JCCs and Federation have recognized her efforts by giving her the Tikun Olam, Leo Levinson, and Women of Distinction Awards for Leadership and Service. She also serves on the boards of numerous non-profit community organizations in the Tampa Bay region, including a community foundation, and has previously provided assistance to SCORE as a volunteer presenter on different business themes. Rochelle is a proficient lawyer and mediator who has also been designated by the court as a receiver and mediator. She is a Florida Supreme Court Certified Circuit Civil and Appellate Mediator and has been a member of the FINRA arbitration and mediation panels since 2010. She has assisted innumerable clients in resolving conflicts outside of the courts and is knowledgeable in mediation, arbitration, and other alternative dispute resolution procedures. Experienced lawyer, business leader, and impartial mediator Rochelle Friedman Walk is known for her ability to think strategically and act with tact. Rochelle is well- known for her adept negotiation techniques and capacity to unite parties in innovative, win-win solutions. Her approach to practicing law is realistic and business-oriented, with an emphasis on assisting her clients in reaching their objectives as quickly and effectively as feasible. In Cleveland, Ohio, Rochelle graduated with honors from Case Western Reserve University Law School. In addition to her A.B. cum laude from Colgate University in Hamilton, New York, she also has credentials from Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management and the University of Virginia's Darden School of Business Administration. In addition to the U.S. District Courts for the Middle District of Florida and the Northern District of Ohio, Rochelle is admitted to practice law in both Florida and Ohio. For more than two decades, Rochelle has maintained an AV (AV) rating with Martindale- Hubbell, an honor bestowed upon only the most exceptional legal practitioners. Since relocating to Florida in 2007, she has been regularly recognized as one of Tampa Bay's Top Lawyers, and from 2011 to the present, she has been included in Martindale- Hubbell's Bar Register of Preeminent Women Lawyers, both the first and all subsequent editions. Rochelle has worked for several national and international commercial organizations as the chief restructuring officer, chief administrative officer, chief legal officer, and business unit manager. She has over 35 years of expertise in both business and law. She has represented clients in a variety of legal transactions during her career as an attorney, including intricate business, e-commerce, technology, real estate, financial restructuring, and employment disputes. Her expertise in e-commerce mergers 34 | November 2024
Cindy Cindy Watson Exemplifying Exceptional Representation, Exclusively in Union-Side Labour and Employment Law across Canada 38 | November 2024
Cindy Watson Founder & Managing Partner Watson Labour Law Fortunestime.com | 39
Cindy Watson, the founder and managing partner of Watson Labour Law and a graduate of the renowned Osgoode Hall, is an experienced and recognized a?orney who has specialized in social jus?ce for the past 30 years. Cindy is a sought-a?er corporate trainer and speaker who works to bridge the gap between men and women in order to improve produc?vity, communica?on, and gender prejudice. Cindy is commi?ed to breaking down barriers, achieving wage fairness, and pu?ng an end to discrimina?on. She has a demonstrated track record of empowering, figh?ng for, and pushing individuals to be the greatest versions of themselves. She is a well-known interna?onal speaker, author, and consultant who is recognized for her enthusiasm, devo?on, and ability to inspire. B elow are highlights of the interview conducted between Fortunes Time and Cindy Watson: full-time hours waitressing throughout the school year for my high school, university, and law school experiences to earn the money to fund my education. In the summers, I sought out relevant work experience, doing an internship in the Students Training in Industrial Relations program, working at employment agencies (both private and public), and working with a trade union. no assurance of clients, no business plan, or any of the typical minimum requirements for a business start-up, but my unshakable confidence in the power of my mission allowed me to forge a path to kickstart my own boutique labor law firm, which quickly grew (both in size and reputation). We became known for our passionate advocacy on behalf of our clients, and I'm proud to say that reputation continues. Describe who you are as a person, inside and outside of the workplace. I've always been passionate and driven about issues I care about. Growing up in a blue-collar family (in a low-rent apartment complex with a father who worked shift work in a paper mill factory), I felt called to protect the rights of workers. It was always instilled in me from a young age that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect in the workplace and beyond. That is a life-long philosophy I have embraced and brought to my law practice, zealously representing trade unions and the rights of their members. Tell us about the inception of the company. How did it all start? I went to law school knowing I wanted to practice trade union labor law. I articled at the Labour Relations Board, and after my call to the bar, I took a position at a boutique labour law firm. I was offered a partnership after only 3 years, but while I loved the practice, I knew I didn't want to do it there. Everyone thought I was having an early midlife crisis when I turned it down and opted to put out my own shingle. I wanted a firm that was mission-driven and ideologically committed to protecting and enhancing rights for workers and unions. What has made you successful? What do you value? I've always prided myself and our firm on our core values of integrity, passion, drive, commitment, and excellence. That winning combination delivers consistent, superior results. We believe in what we do and the important value it brings, not only to our clients but the broader community as we advocate for enhanced rights for workers on a global level. Because we are mission-driven, we aren't motivated by the money. We pride ourselves on our ability to effect superior settlements, knowing when and how to avoid litigation to secure creative best outcomes and when to litigate. Describe your background and what did you do before you started/joined the company? Coming from a blue-collar background, my parents didn't have the resources to afford a post-secondary education for me. So, I worked almost With the naiveté that comes from youth, I had no doubt that it would succeed. In hindsight, I had no equity, 40 | November 2024
Which are the major services of the company and how do they the company to get ahead in the competition? What value-added services does the company provide? We offer the full range of services to our trade union clients, including (but not limited to): Representation before all labour tribunals and at all levels of court Ÿ Grievance & arbitration advocacy Ÿ Labour Board advocacy Ÿ Workers compensation matters Ÿ Disability benefits Ÿ Equity work Ÿ Human Rights advocacy Ÿ Legislative and political lobbying Ÿ Training & Education programming We stand out from the competition given our passionate commitment to the cause which is reflected in our advocacy and in our ability to secure better outcomes without litigation where appropriate. We tirelessly seek the best possible results for our clients. We do so utilizing what we call the Art of Feminine Negotiation, where we bring rapport-building, empathy, flexibility, intuition and trust-building to the table so our clients get more creative outcomes with better relationships, greater buy-in and longer-lasting agreements. Give us your opinion on; do organizations rely heavily on individual heroics or team processes? Team is key in life generally, in business organizations, and particularly for trade unions and service providers for unions. Unions are based on a philosophy of solidarity—stronger together. Individual heroics do not serve the greater good. Building an engaged, dedicated, passionate team is key to success. Studies show that diversity in thinking allows for more creative outcomes and better results (not to mention improved productivity and efficiency). Teamwork and the brainstorming it affords will increase the output of any organization (both in terms of quantitative productivity, but perhaps more importantly, in terms of more refined, creative, distinctive, move-the- dial end results). This holds true generally, and we see it as particularly important for our law firm. Unions secure their strength in numbers. Unions that rely on individual heroics don't survive. The law firms that serve trade unions need to similarly embrace and foster team environments to deliver the best possible service, advice, and results. We think outside the box, looking for unexamined options for enhanced solutions. This cooperative versus competitive approach consistently yields better experiences and outcomes for our clients. Having said that, where necessary we are known for our exceptional advocacy, where we leave no stone unturned. offer. Engaging directly with members, stewards and front-line union reps feeds me – the energy flows both ways as we inspire each other in carrying forward the important work that needs to be done. What are your responsibilities as the Founder/CEO of the company? What is the happiest part of your daily routine? I'm proud to have built our thriving practice over the last 30 years. We've built a reputation for our passion, integrity, and results. I'm still integrally involved in the building of our team and ensuring that our culture continues to reflect our core values. Hiring our best team is a key part of that process, as is fostering relationships with our long-time clients and building on client development for the future. What advice would you give someone going into a leadership position for the first time? Listen. Really listen. Bring empathy to the table, truly seeking to understand and meet the needs of others (both within and outside your organization). The benefits of this approach cannot be overstated. Never seek to exert power over others, but rather, always strive to achieve power with those you engage with. We care about our clients and their issues. We don't treat them like numbers. Unlike most law firms, we also think proactively, seeking to anticipate issues and redressing them before they become conflicts or problems. Our proactive (vs reactive) approach is unique in the practice of law and saves our clients much time, money, angst and relationships. I'm lucky to still be passionate about representing trade unions. I love the advocacy, and I particularly love the exceptional training and education we Fortunestime.com | 41
Angelika Hellweger Leading Expertise in International Economic Crime and Disputes With unique background, combined with dedication to excellence, Angelika Hellweger is serving as a leading figure in the field of white- collar crime and commercial disputes. Legal Director at Rahman Ravelli, Angelika is a dual- qualified Austrian counsel and English solicitor, bringing unparalleled expertise in international, high-level economic crime investigations and large-scale commercial disputes. With a specialization in criminal law honed during her university studies, Angelika's passion for white-collar crime and complex disputes was ignited from the very start of her legal career. Her journey began as an associate at Austria's largest law firm, where she was immediately entrusted with significantresponsibilities—assisting in drafting a freezing order for the London High Court and working on one of Austria's most prominent white-collar crime cases at the time. This early exposure to high-stakes, cross-border cases shaped her understanding of the legal landscape and inspired her to pursue dual qualifications, mastering both civil and common law systems to deliver the best possible outcomes for her clients. Fortunestime.com | 45
What initially attracted you to the field of law? I was drawn to the possibility that a legal education can open up a number of different career pathways on which you can embark—pathways that are not typical “lawyer jobs, like solicitor or judge.” It might sound naive, but the pursuit of justice was also one of my key motivations to study law. I wanted to protect those who might not be able to protect themselves from injustice. Legal considerations are part of every business decision, and the law plays a key role in so many aspects of life—this makes it particularly exciting. Tell us about Rahman Ravelli Solicitors. What are its offerings? Rahman Ravelli is a firm with experience and acknowledged expertise in serious and corporate fraud, white-collar crime, bribery and corruption, sanctions, regulatory matters, complex crime, market abuse, asset recovery, and commercial litigation; particularly civil fraud. It has gained the highest legal guide rankings, a string of awards and legal successes, and a reputation second to none. Angelika's career is defined by her deep understanding of the nuances and advantages of both legal systems. This insight drove her to qualify as a solicitor in England and Wales, eventually leading her to London, where she now practices as a Legal Director at Rahman Ravelli. Her global experience, including time spent in the Middle East, has enriched her cultural understanding and enhanced her capabilities as a lawyer, allowing her to navigate the complexities of international law with skill and precision. It is among the UK's most prominent legal firms for managing all aspects of criminal and regulatory defense and dealing with UK and worldwide agencies. It receives instructions on the largest and most notable and complex Below are highlights of the interview conducted between Fortunes Time and Angelika Hellweger: 46 | November 2024
multinational and multi-agency white-collar crime investigations. about being “bossy” when a woman is being assertive in their professional life. I think it's good advice not to carry the weight of other people's opinions on your shoulders. Rather, try and surround yourself with people who bring out the best in you and who support you in both your professional and private endeavors. It is in increasing demand to help corporations and senior executives investigate and self-report wrongdoing to achieve a civil, rather than a criminal, solution to an issue. What advice would you offer to aspiring legal professionals who are interested in pursuing a career in the legal field? As a legal leader, what has been the most significant barrier in your career? Although the situation is gradually changing, the area of white-collar crime is still a very male-dominated one, both from a law firm partner perspective and from a client perspective; where the “white-male-pale- stale description” is still prevalent. This makes building a network challenging. But the answer to that is not that women should only network between themselves. Women are less often invited to speak on panels at legal conferences, are less often invited when it comes to building professional relationships with important clients or other law firms, and are often tasked with typical “housework” duties within a law firm. Always stay curious and pursue your own interests and passions besides the law, as those other interests will make you a better lawyer in the long run. Try to get insights into as many fields of law as possible, either in university or through some work experience. before you decide in which areas you want to specialize. Everyone has their own way and speed when it comes to building his or her career. Walk your own path. Don't be intimidated by those who seem to be the “overachievers” and find out what works best for you—a career in law is a marathon, not a sprint. And learn to rest well as you are progressing. So, it's an ongoing challenge to find ways to properly network. This means a lot of self-generated initiative is required when identifying proper speaking opportunities. And this also means asking those males for support who are willing and able to introduce you into circles that might otherwise be very difficult to access. If your career in law progresses differently than those of your peers because, for example, you move for some time abroad or because you dedicate your time to your private life, see it as a unique mark that sets you apart from others. Embrace change: if you find out that another field of law suits you better than the one chosen before, don't be afraid of switching to the other field, regardless of which stage of your career you are at. Challenges make you stronger: What is your take on this? Tell us about the challenge of being a women leader. As a woman, you will be judged by others all the time, irrespective of what you do. And this obviously continues when you are a woman in a leadership position. This goes from personal statements like “Look what she's wearing today” and “Don't you think her dress is too long or too short?” through to statements concerning personal life (Is she married or divorced, and why or why not?). Does she have children and why or why not?) and on to statements Fortunestime.com | 47
