In the dynamic and ever-evolving landscape of Indian law, one name shines bright as a beacon of excellence. Vishwang Desai, the Managing Partner of Desai & Diwanji.

1. VOL 09 I ISSUE 06 I 2023
Niche-Insights
Exploring the Essential
Elements of Leadership
in the Law Sector
Tech-Drive
The Attributes of Technology
Integrated with the SOPs
of the Legal Industry
Vishwang
Desai
A Trailblazer in Indian
Corporate and Finance Law
Vishwang Desai,
Managing Partner
Desai & Diwanji
Vishwang
Desai
The
10Most
Inspiring
Leaders
In To
Watch,2023

2. QOUTE ?

4. The Stalwarts
of the
Law Sector

5. he legal landscape has never been more dynamic,
Twith new challenges and opportunities emerging at
an exceptional rate. The 10 Most Inspiring
Leaders in Law to Watch 2023 is a testament to the
adaptability and resilience that today's legal leaders must
possess. These exceptional individuals have proven
themselves not only in their legal expertise but also in their
capacity to inspire, influence and lead.
As you flip through these pages, you will encounter
remarkable lawyers who have successfully embraced digital
transformation, championed diversity and inclusion, and
advocated for ethical, sustainable legal practices. They have
harnessed technology to streamline legal processes, fostered
a culture of innovation, and made the legal profession more
accessible and transparent.
In addition, our featured leaders have demonstrated an
unwavering commitment to social justice and equality,
fighting for a more equitable and just society. Their work
extends beyond the courtroom, making a significant impact
on the communities they serve.
CIOLook showcases this edition as an acknowledgement of
their exceptional leadership, dedication and vision. They are
not only shaping the legal landscape but also inspiring the
next generation of legal professionals.
We hope that this edition serves as a source of inspiration
for all, not only those within the legal field but also anyone
seeking to lead with purpose and impact. Our featured
leaders are shining examples of what can be achieved
through innovation, determination and a commitment to
making the world a better place.
Hope you find inspiration to make a difference in your own
endeavors; have a delightful read!

6. 08
Vishwang
Desai
A Trailblazer in Indian
Corporate and Finance Law
Vishwang
Desai
COVER
STORY

7. 14
20
Niche-Insights
Exploring the Essential Elements
of Leadership in the Law Sector
Tech-Drive
The Attributes of Technology
Integrated with the SOPs of the
Legal Industry
A R T I L C E S

8. CONTENT
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Executive Editors AbhishekJoshi
Alex Spellman
DESIGN
Visualizer Dave Bates
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SALES
Senior Sales Manager Sihanee M., Rouniyar A.
Customer Success Manager Jack Ryan, Niwrutti
Sales Executives John, Rohit
TECHNICAL
Technical Head Prachi Mokashi
Technical Consultant Victor Collins
October, 2023
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9. Brief
Company Name
Gavin Raftery
Partner
Gavin has extensive experience practicing finance law in
Australia, the UK and Japan. He is listed as a leading lawyer
for Banking and Finance in Japan by Chambers, Legal500
and IFLR.
Darryl Cooke
Co-founder and
Executive
Chairman
Darryl is the Co-founder and Executive Chairman of
gunnercooke LLP, a full-service commercial and corporate law
firm.
gunnercooke
gunnercooke.com
Baker & McKenzie
bakermckenzie.com
Aliff has also been actively involved in various high stakes
direct tax litigation matters handled by the firm involving
international tax issues such as indirect transfers, transfer
pricing disputes and mutual agreement procedures.
ALMT Legal
almtlegal.com
Giovanni Mofsol
Muhammad
Owner
Giovanni has gained expertise in corporate and commercial law
covering Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and Joint Ventures
(JV), Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A), restructuring,
divestment.
Dentons HPRP
dentons.com
Lawrence Law
lawlawfirm.com
Jeralyn handles matters ranging from the simple and
straightforward to the complex, involving significant income
and assets, including representation of celebrities, professional
athletes and other high-profile individuals.
Jeralyn Lawrence
Founder
Featured Person
Aliff Fazelbhoy
Senior Partner
Suresh Divyanathan
Partner & Head,
Commercial
Arbitration Practice
Suresh is highly regarded for his expertise in international
arbitration. His cases have involved disputes on technology
transfer projects, joint ventures and distributorships in various
industries.
Rabindra
Jhunjhunwala
Partner
Rabindra specialises in domestic and cross border mergers and
acquisitions, He has advised several multinationals and Indian
companies on complex and big-ticket transactions.
Khaitan & Co
khaitanco.com
Oon & Bazul LLP
oonbazul.com
With over 20 years of experience, Nick has a strong focus on
advising South-East Asian companies regarding their UK
listings.
Pinsent Masons
pinsentmasons.com
Vishwang Desai
Managing Partner
Vishwang has played a crucial role in intricate restructurings
and buy-outs involving both public and private corporations of
significant size.
Desai & Diwanji
desaidiwanji.com
Gartner
gartner.com
Yosr has successfully led and executed multiple complex and
high-value corporate agreements, transactions, and projects,
while ensuring compliance with local and international laws
and regulations, and mitigating risks and disputes.
Yosr Hamza
Head of Legal and
Director of
Legal and Compliance
Nick Hanna
Corporate Partner

10. ver
STORY
Vishwang Desai,
Managing Partner
Desai & Diwanji

11. Vishwang
Desai
A Trailblazer in Indian
Corporate and Finance Law
Vishwang has
effectively represented
governments,
government
corporations, large
public and private
corporations, global
private equity and
hedge funds, lenders,
and multilateral
agencies in complex
transactions spanning
diverse sectors.”

12. Vishwang acknowledges that
technology has become an
indispensable part of the legal industry.
He believes that just like any other
industry, the legal industry must
embrace technology to stay
competitive.
n the dynamic and ever-evolving landscape of Indian
Ilaw, one name shines bright as a beacon of
excellence: Vishwang Desai, the Managing Partner
of Desai & Diwanji, a revered legal institution known
for its stellar reputation and unwavering commitment
to providing exceptional counsel.
His expertise lies in the field of corporate and finance
law, with a specialization in various aspects such as
mergers and acquisitions, private equity, buy-outs,
spin-offs, de-mergers, divestitures, project and
structured finance, infrastructure and energy project
development, cross-border transactions, FDI,
corporate governance, competition, and regulatory
matters. He has played a crucial role in intricate
restructurings and buy-outs involving both public and
private corporations of significant size.
Vishwang has effectively represented governments,
government corporations, large public and private
corporations, global private equity and hedge funds,
lenders, and multilateral agencies in complex
transactions spanning diverse sectors. His exceptional
legal acumen has earned him recognition as a leading
lawyer in numerous global publications, and he has
consistently received several awards, including
esteemed accolades like 'lawyer of the year' from
various organizations.
A Shift in Objectives
Vishwang comes from a lineage deeply rooted in the
legal profession. His father, grandfather, great-grand-
uncle, and even his maternal grandfather all pursued
careers as lawyers. Interestingly, despite his family
background, Vishwang initially aspired to become a
medical doctor. However, his plans took an unexpected
turn when he faced difficulty gaining admission to his
preferred medical school in Mumbai. While he had the
opportunity to enrol in other medical schools across
India, he made a deliberate decision to abandon his
pursuit of medical science and instead pursue a
bachelor’s degree in chemistry. This choice served as a
realization of his limited interest in the field of
medicine.
As he completed his undergraduate studies, Vishwang's
inclination towards studying law became increasingly
evident, leading him to embark on a legal career.
Journey of Transformation and Expansion
Vishwang regards his most significant accomplishment
as his instrumental role in transforming a family-
oriented law practice into a prominent law firm that
caters to a wide range of clients, including major
domestic corporations, multinational companies, global
funds, governments, and lenders. This achievement
represents the successful expansion and evolution of
the firm's services, enabling it to handle complex legal
matters for diverse entities on a significant scale.
Vishwang takes great pride in the growth and
development of the firm, which now stands as a
prominent player in the legal industry, serving a diverse
clientele at both national and international levels.
Passion for Legal Learning
Vishwang is an avid reader and dedicates considerable
time to staying informed about the latest legal
advancements. During weekends, he frequently visits
various global legal websites, focusing on both
technology and information platforms, to delve into
new developments in the field. He values continuous
learning and actively engages in regular meetings with
his partners and junior colleagues, where they discuss
and analyze the implications of recent legal
developments. This collaborative environment allows
them to explore how these developments can be
effectively incorporated into their own practice.
Additionally, Vishwang is part of a select group
comprising senior lawyers from different law firms.
Within this forum, they engage in insightful discussions
covering a wide range of topics, including emerging
trends and innovative developments in the legal sphere.

13. Navigating the Challenges Faced by the Legal Industry
in India
Vishwang identifies two primary challenges faced by
the legal industry in India - people and cost
management. Firstly, cost management remains a
persistent challenge for law firms, irrespective of the
economic climate. It is crucial to manage costs
effectively without compromising on the firm's
requirements or the quality of services offered.
Secondly, the quality, availability, and expectations of
lawyers present an unfavorable blend, making it
challenging to strike a balance between them. Finding
the right talent, retaining them, and meeting client
expectations while adhering to legal ethics and
standards is a complex undertaking.
The dynamic nature of the legal profession demands a
constant need for improvement and growth. Vishwang
acknowledges that these challenges require proactive
measures and a continuous effort to adapt to new
developments and remain competitive.
The Key to Setting Lawyers Apart
Vishwang holds the belief that qualities such as skill,
education, and commercial awareness, although
valuable, may not necessarily distinguish one lawyer
from their peers. He recognizes that many lawyers
within a particular peer group often possess similar
attributes and accomplishments. Instead, he
emphasizes the significance of certain fundamental
human qualities that can set a smaller group of lawyers
apart.
These qualities include a genuine commitment to client
interests, displaying respect towards clients and
colleagues, and fostering a sense of accountability.
Vishwang values these basic yet essential qualities that
can sometimes be overlooked as individuals progress in
their careers. By prioritizing these qualities, he aims to
differentiate himself within the legal profession and
create a distinct identity based on fundamental
principles that serve the best interests of clients and
contribute to a positive professional environment.
Building a Legacy
Vishwang's long-standing goals revolve around building
a top-quality law firm that garners the respect and
loyalty of its clients. He doesn't aspire to make Desai &
Diwanji the biggest or a full-service law firm, as he sees
several issues with that model without any significant
benefits. Instead, he prioritizes being highly regarded in
the firm's chosen practice areas and providing
exceptional legal services to clients.
By focusing on specific areas of practice, the firm can
maintain a high level of expertise and deliver tailored
solutions to clients' legal needs. Vishwang believes that
earning the trust and loyalty of clients is vital for
building a successful and sustainable law firm. By
sticking to these goals, he aims to create a legacy for
Desai & Diwanji and establish the firm as a respected
player in the legal industry.
The Artistic Odyssey
In a time when Indian art had few enthusiasts beyond
the wealthy princely states, Vishwang's father
embarked on a remarkable mission. Driven by an
unwavering passion for modern Indian art, he sought
out hidden gems in the art world.

14. Vishwang believes that earning the
trust and loyalty of clients is vital for
building a successful and sustainable
law firm.
Discovering artists like Souza, Tyeb, Husain, Raza,
Sabavala, Manjit, Ram Kumar, and others, his father
became an early patron, despite their struggle for
recognition. With time, these artists transformed into
luminaries, earning acclaim and coveted spots in global
and Indian auctions.
Within Vishwang's family, a treasure trove emerged—a
testament to his father's discerning eye. Their
collection showcased the brilliance of Tyeb, Souza,
Husain, Manjit Bawa, and Sabavala, solidifying their
artistic legacy.
Carrying forward his father's love for art, Vishwang has
spent 25 years nurturing and expanding their
collection.
As a guardian of artistic expression, Vishwang
cherishes every stroke and manifestation of creativity.
It is believed by some that Vishwang’s family has some
of the best works of these artists in a private collection.
His collection is not just a gathering of valuable
artworks but a testament to the enduring power of art
itself. The world eagerly anticipates the unveiling of
new masterpieces, woven by the hands of modern
Indian artists, as Vishwang's journey continues to
captivate hearts and transcend boundaries.
Embracing Technology
Vishwang acknowledges that technology has become
an indispensable part of the legal industry. He believes
that just like any other industry, the legal industry must
embrace technology to stay competitive. The legal
profession uses a variety of software similar to its
global counterparts for various purposes, such as
accounting, billing, time management, operations, client
and file management, and client tracking. Vishwang
emphasizes that his firm is continuously exploring new
technology and evaluating its potential benefits to
improve its business operations.
A Prominent Perspective on Aspiring Leaders
Vishwang advises aspiring leaders who want to enter
the legal industry to be aware of the challenges they
may face. These challenges can range from personal
attributes, such as lacking the necessary skills or
business acumen, to structural challenges, like the cost
of running a practice and the courts in which they can
practice. He suggests that individuals carefully analyze
the legal practice area that aligns with their personality
and commercial and intellectual ambitions. This will
help them in choosing the right sector of legal practice
that suits their skill set.
Vishwang believes that despite the challenges, the legal
industry presents great opportunities and can provide
immense satisfaction if one is willing to work hard and
overcome obstacles. He encourages aspiring leaders to
develop a strong work ethic and build a solid network
within the legal community. Additionally, he emphasizes
that it is essential to stay updated on legal
developments and trends to stay ahead of the curve
and remain competitive. With the right mindset and
approach, one can build a successful career and make a
meaningful impact in the legal industry.

16. Exploring the
Essential
Elements of
Leadership
in the
Law Sector
Niche-Insights
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October 3
14

17. eadership in the legal profession is a critical
Lelement in the successful functioning of law firms,
corporate legal departments, and the entire
justice system. Effective leadership not only ensures
the delivery of quality legal services but also plays a
pivotal role in upholding the principles of justice and
the rule of law. In this article, we will delve into the
essential elements of leadership in the law sector and
discuss how these components are vital in navigating
the complexities of the legal landscape.
Vision and Strategy
Vision and strategy are the foundational elements of
leadership in the law sector. A leader in this field must
have a clear vision of the firm or department's goals and
a well-defined strategy to achieve them. This vision
extends beyond financial success and should
encompass a commitment to the principles of justice,
ethical conduct, and service to clients. A leader's ability
to set a compelling vision and articulate a strategy for
realizing it motivates and inspires their team, ultimately
leading to the success of the organization.
Legal Expertise
Legal expertise is a fundamental requirement for
leadership in the law sector. Leaders must have a deep
understanding of the legal field, including its ever-
evolving regulations, precedent, and ethical standards.
This knowledge not only enables leaders to make
informed decisions but also fosters trust among team
members, clients, and other stakeholders. Legal
expertise is a key driver of effective problem-solving
and decision-making, which are critical in the legal
profession.
www.ciolook.com | October 2023 |
15

18. Communication Skills
Effective communication is paramount in the law
sector. Leaders must be able to convey complex legal
concepts in a clear and understandable manner to both
clients and team members. Furthermore, strong
communication skills enable leaders to build
relationships, negotiate effectively, and advocate for
their clients. A leader's ability to communicate well also
extends to active listening, which is crucial in
understanding the concerns and needs of clients,
colleagues, and staff.
Team Building
Building a cohesive and high-performing team is
another essential element of leadership in the law
sector. A leader should be adept at identifying and
nurturing talent, as well as creating an environment
where team members can thrive. This involves
fostering a collaborative and inclusive culture, setting
clear expectations, and providing opportunities for
professional growth. A strong team is a valuable asset,
and leaders should invest in their development to
ensure long-term success.
Ethical Integrity
Ethical integrity is the cornerstone of leadership in the
legal profession. Leaders must adhere to the highest
ethical standards to maintain the trust and confidence
of clients, colleagues, and the public. Upholding ethical
principles is not only a matter of professional
responsibility but also a fundamental aspect of the legal
system's credibility. Leaders who model ethical
behavior inspire their teams to do the same, reinforcing
the integrity of the law sector as a whole.
Adaptability
The legal landscape is dynamic, constantly evolving in
response to changes in legislation, technology, and
societal norms. Leaders in the law sector must be
adaptable and open to innovation. They need to stay
current with legal developments, embrace
technological advancements, and anticipate future
challenges. A leader's ability to adapt and lead their
organization through change is crucial to its long-term
success.
Resilience
The law sector can be demanding and stressful, often
requiring leaders to navigate difficult cases, tight
deadlines, and high-stakes situations. Resilience is a
critical attribute for leaders, as it enables them to
maintain composure, make sound decisions under
pressure, and rebound from setbacks. Resilient leaders
set a positive example for their teams and help create a
supportive and sustainable work environment.
Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
Diversity and inclusion have become increasingly
important in the legal sector. Leaders must be
committed to promoting diversity in their organizations
and ensuring that their workplaces are inclusive and
equitable. Embracing a diverse team not only fosters
creativity and innovation but also reflects the broader
society that the law serves.
Leadership in the law sector is a multifaceted endeavor
that demands a combination of skills, knowledge, and
character traits. To be effective, leaders in this field
must have a clear vision, a strategic mindset, legal
expertise, exceptional communication skills, and the
ability to build and lead high-performing teams.
Moreover, ethical integrity, adaptability, resilience, and
a commitment to diversity and inclusion are essential
components of effective leadership in the law sector. By
embracing these elements, leaders can help ensure the
continued success of their organizations and contribute
to the principles of justice and the rule of law.
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October 3
16

20. QOUTE ?

22. Tech-Drive
The Attributes
of Technology
Integrated
with the SOPs of the
Legal Industry
www.ciolook.com | 202 |
October 3
20

23. n the ever-evolving landscape of the legal industry,
Ithe integration of technology with standard
operating procedures (SOPs) has become
imperative. Technology has disrupted nearly every
sector, and the legal profession is no exception. From
enhancing efficiency to improving client experiences,
technology has reshaped the way legal professionals
operate. In this article, we will explore the attributes of
technology integrated with the SOPs of the legal
industry.
Efficiency and Time Management
One of the primary advantages of integrating
technology with SOPs in the legal sector is the
improvement in efficiency and time management. With
the help of practice management software, lawyers can
streamline their tasks, automate administrative work,
and access essential documents within seconds. This
not only reduces the risk of human error but also
enables legal professionals to allocate more time to
strategic and complex tasks. The end result is faster and
more effective legal services.
Enhanced Document Management
Legal work revolves around a multitude of documents,
from contracts to court filings. Managing these
documents efficiently is crucial. Technology solutions
such as document management systems (DMS) enable
lawyers to store, organize, and retrieve documents with
ease. The integration of DMS with SOPs ensures that
all documents are maintained in an orderly and easily
searchable manner, reducing the risk of losing critical
information.
Improved Collaboration:
Collaboration is at the core of legal practice. Attorneys,
paralegals, and support staff often need to work
together on cases. Technology tools like cloud-based
collaboration platforms and video conferencing have
made it possible to work seamlessly even if team
members are located in different geographic locations.
This promotes real-time communication, faster
decision-making, and better teamwork.
Data Security and Privacy
The legal industry deals with sensitive and confidential
information. With the integration of technology,
www.ciolook.com | October 2023 |
21

24. maintaining the security and privacy of this data
becomes a top priority. Legal tech solutions include
robust security features such as encryption, access
controls, and data backup. By aligning these security
measures with SOPs, law firms can ensure compliance
with industry regulations and safeguard their clients'
data.
Client-Centric Services
Client satisfaction is paramount in the legal profession.
Technology can enhance the client experience by
offering self-service portals for clients to access case
information, facilitating secure communication, and
providing real-time updates on case progress. By
incorporating these technologies into their SOPs, law
firms can create a client-centric approach that sets
them apart in a competitive market.
Cost Savings
Traditionally, the legal industry has been associated
with high costs. However, by integrating technology
with SOPs, law firms can reduce overhead expenses.
This includes lower costs related to document storage,
physical office space, and administrative tasks. By
automating routine processes, legal professionals can
focus on value-adding activities, ultimately providing
cost savings to both the firm and its clients.
Data Analysis and Predictive Insights
Legal tech tools often incorporate data analytics
capabilities. By analyzing historical data and trends,
lawyers can make more informed decisions and even
predict potential outcomes of cases. This data-driven
approach, when integrated into SOPs, empowers legal
professionals to be more strategic in their counsel and
representation.
Compliance and Regulatory Adherence
Regulatory compliance is a significant concern in the
legal industry. Technology can assist law firms in staying
up-to-date with changing regulations and ensuring that
their practices adhere to industry standards. SOPs that
incorporate technology solutions for compliance
monitoring and reporting can significantly reduce the
risk of regulatory violations.
Scalability and Adaptability
The legal industry is not immune to change. New laws,
regulations, and legal precedents are constantly
emerging. Technology-integrated SOPs provide the
flexibility and scalability required to adapt to these
changes efficiently. This ensures that law firms can stay
competitive and relevant in a rapidly evolving legal
landscape.
Client Retention and Growth
Ultimately, the integration of technology with SOPs
contributes to client retention and growth. Clients
appreciate the benefits of streamlined processes,
reduced costs, and better communication. As a result,
they are more likely to return for future legal needs and
refer others to the firm.
In conclusion, the legal industry has been transformed
by the integration of technology with SOPs. This
transformation has ushered in a new era of efficiency,
collaboration, and client-centered services. By
embracing technology and aligning it with standard
operating procedures, law firms can thrive in an
increasingly competitive and dynamic environment. As
the legal industry continues to evolve, the attributes of
technology will remain a critical component of success
for those who choose to adapt and embrace the
changes it brings.
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October 3
22

27. QOUTE ?

28. www.ciolook.com