4 September2022Editor NoteChief Legal Officers & their Transitioning Roles in Contemporary Business Landscape The legal system forms the backbone of a modern civilized society. But a layman's perspective of the legal world is restricted within the profession's dramatic depiction in cinema which is reductive and far removed from the reality. Contrary to what movies would like us to believe, a legal professional does not actually argue in a raised pitch while periodically mouth `I object'. Beyond the stereotypical notion of lawyers embroiled in litigation in court rooms, the legal profession has evolved rapidly, the next major stop for legal professionals in the corporate world. With the Indian economy moving in full swing, this growth has brought along an increased emphasis on policy reforms to strengthen the local business and foreign direct investment (FDI) landscape. Although necessary these periodically evolving policies and rules are complex to understand and implement, especially for the business industry. Nobody can really predict when or how business regulations might change and this puts organizations in a tough spot. In such a scenario, it is the Chief Legal Officers who come to an organization's rescue. Part of the c-suite, CLOs are adept at helping businesses navigate through periodic regulatory changes. A CLO bridges the gap between the law of the land and the business; and oversees everyday legal advisory at the company. Acting as the legal compass of an organization, they look after all non-litigious actions such as rendering legal assistance in the areas of documentation, legal structuring, compliance and regulatory issues & policies. With time the role of a CLO has evolved drastically. They no longer play support functions but areembroiled in critical decision-making for business growth and strategy. The role has risen in importance dramatically. However, the challenge of gender disparity remains the same even in the role of the CLO. The need of the hour are structures that support and mentor women leaders to take over decision making roles in the legal fields. We also require role models who can inspire women to aim for the stars. Not only do they act as aspirational figures but also provide a blue print for young professionals in terms of learning and up-skilling. The current edition of Women Entrepreneur magazine shines the spotlight on some of the most prolific women performing the role of Chief Legal Officers. We hope their success stories inspire you to aim for the stars as well. Do let us know your thoughts.Rachita SharmaManaging Editor
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