Symbiosis International University boasts a rich tapestry of alumni women leaders who have made indelible marks across various industries. Among these distinguished individuals is Suneera Madhok, a dynamic force in the legal domain. As an alumna of Symbiosis International University, Suneera has carved a unique path, specializing in corporate and media laws, intellectual property rights, and technology law.

Suneera's foray into entrepreneurship with Nomos Associates and the journey in the 13 years since, stands as a testament to her resilience and leadership. Through her endeavours, she has not only contributed to the legal landscape but has also inspired a new generation of women leaders, demonstrating the multifaceted impact of Symbiosis alumni on diverse professional arenas.

In an in-depth conversation with Women Entrepreneur Magazine, Suneera shares with us her professional milestones, success mantra and much more. Let’s hear it from her.

What pivotal moments influenced your journey in the legal industry and what inspired your entry into the field of law?

My journey in the legal industry deviated from conventional paths, driven more by personal growth than strict professional ambitions. Pursuing law wasn't an inherent goal for me and I have explored diverse internships, also delving into business and creative realms. Nomos Associates, my venture, wasn't a preconceived plan either. A major law firm breakup led to my involvement, initially guided by promises that later proved unreliable. Left alone, I faced a choice which was to return to my previous role or embrace Nomos as a personal challenge. Opting for the latter, I committed myself to learning, improving my legal skillsets, acquiring numerous academic qualifications, challenging my legal acumen, and evolving my understanding of the meaning of success.

Introduce us to Nomos Associates and its core objectives and areas of specialization?

Nomos Associates was established in early 2011 and recognizing the struggles of artists and entrepreneurs in accessing affordable legal services, many of whom were friends or acquaintances, my journey with Nomos began by bridging this gap, focusing initially on startups and artists who, like me, were navigating the challenging early stages of their careers with limited resources.

Over the years, our client base has flourished, and I’m happy to say many of my first clients are still clients all these years later and have grown into industry stalwarts in their respective fields, including some of the largest Indian and global technology and digital marketing and advertising companies and accomplished artists. We started with a grassroots approach, and gradually delved further into IP, technology fields, corporate transactions, and in recent years mediation and negotiating dispute resolutions.

Embarking on the journey with Nomos at the age of 24 really brought home the pervasive challenges faced by young, female legal professionals. Battling societal expectations and biases, my early years were marked by instances where perceptions surrounding age and gender often attempted to overshadow competence during key transactions. 

Simultaneously with growing my practice, I immersed myself in continuous education, obtaining postgraduate qualifications and sought insights from industry peers and successful entrepreneurs to understand the practical side and application of legal and business perspectives. Collaborating with seasoned legal professionals such as Adv. Jamshed Mistry amongst others proved instrumental in gaining guidance and building confidence. Beyond traditional legal roles, my involvement in related and unrelated projects and associations with business networks added different dimensions to my expertise and experience.

Reflecting on your professional journey, could you share a significant milestone and elaborate on the success mantra that has contributed to your success?

A pivotal moment that shaped my approach to legal language was assisting a senior advocate in drafting a legislation for a state government in 2009 soon after I graduated from law school. Thinking about the usage of every word, each comma, and how the law would play out, was an experience so unique, it was certainly a crucial occurrence shaping my application. Another early milestone was advising the sellers in the acquisition of Taproot India in 2012, a monumental achievement that instilled self-belief despite my youth and limited experience. Being involved with the India-Canada Audio-Visual Co-production Treaty, and earning the Raisina fellowship were other memorable events.

My work mantra revolves around instilling self-belief, and carving my individual definition of success without comparison. It's about focusing on my unique journey rather than the external noise, shaping a path that aligns with my personal growth and goals.

What is your perspective on the current representation of women in leadership roles within the legal industry, and how can we encourage more women to establish enduring careers in law?

Despite my own supportive circumstances, I acknowledge the struggle many women face juggling career aspirations and familial commitments. 

To truly empower women in the legal industry, organizations must implement supportive policies, including on-site childcare facilities and flexible hours without attached biases. Encouraging enduring careers for women in law involves not just providing options on paper but fostering an inclusive culture that genuinely supports work-life balance and values professional growth irrespective of gender or family roles.

A business leader you admire: Indra Nooyi, renowned for her unwavering work ethic, visionary leadership, glass-ceiling-breaking achievements, commitment to excellence, and innovative strategic thinking.

Advice for aspiring women entrepreneurs and business leaders: Believe in yourself, overcome imposter syndrome, recognize your worth, assert your presence, and, upon reaching the table, lean in, fostering a journey of personal growth, continuous evolution, and a self-defined pursuit of success.  

Suneera Madhok, Founding Partner, Nomos Associates

Suneera is a legal luminary with a robust educational background, including a BA. LLB. from Symbiosis International University, Pune, and specialized diplomas from NALSAR, Hyderabad, and the NUJS, Kolkata as well as a Master in Business Laws from NLSIU, Bengaluru. Her extensive professional journey encompasses experience with prominent legal chambers and prestigious law firms, such as AZB & Partners Mumbai and J Sagar Associates Mumbai. She serves as a mediator, mentor, and Co-founder of the policy think tank 'Bharat Bhagya Vidhata,' reflecting her enduring influence on the legal landscape.