The Most Influential Leaders in Legal Services to Watch in 2025

TM June I 2025 Patrícia Medeiros Arias General Counsel Grupo Petrópolis www.ciolook.com

Editor's Note Visionaries Leading the Legal Evolution I n a world increasingly shaped by rapid regulatory changes, digital transformation, and evolving client expectations, the legal industry stands at a pivotal crossroads. At the heart of this evolution are the bold, resilient, and visionary leaders redefining the boundaries of what legal services can achieve. It is with great pride that CIOLook present The Most Influential Leaders in Legal Services to Watch in 2025, a special edition dedicated to those who are not just navigating this transformation but actively leading it. and delivering client-centric solutions while upholding the highest standards of the profession. Their stories are more than professional milestones—they are a testament to how purpose-driven leadership can create real impact in society, shape public policy, and redefine client advocacy in meaningful ways. As you explore these pages, may you be inspired by their journeys and motivated to rethink what leadership in legal services means in today’s world. The future of law is being written by these visionaries—and it’s a future marked by courage, clarity, and change. This edition highlights individuals whose legal acumen is matched only by their integrity, innovation, and leadership. From trailblazing law firm partners and in-house counsels to legal tech pioneers and thought leaders, each profile reflects a commitment to excellence and a passion for justice. These leaders are embracing technology, championing inclusivity, Happy Reading! Prince Bolton

08 C O V E R S T O R Y S T N E T A R T I C L E S N From Counsel to Catalyst What Makes a Legal Advisor Influen?al in Today's Market? 16 O From Foundation to Fruition Why is a Digital Learning Strategy Important? 20 C

TM Pooja M Bansal Editor-in-Chief CONTENT FOLLOW US ON Deputy Editor Anish Miller www.facebook.com/ciolook www.twi?er.com/ciolook Managing Editor Prince Bolton WE ARE ALSO AVAILABLE ON DESIGN Visualizer Dave Bates Art & Design Director Davis Mar?n Associate Designer Jameson Carl CONTACT US ON Featured Person Company Name Brief Email info@ciolook.com For Subscrip?on www.ciolook.com SALES Senior legal professional with expertise in corporate law, contract management, and dispute resolution. Adept at navigating complex legal frameworks. Ahmed Zaki Senior Vice President - Legal Affairs Al Hamra alhamra.ae Senior Sales Manager Wilson T., Hunter D. Customer Success Manager Collins J. Copyright © 2025 CIOLOOK, All rights reserved. The content and images used in this magazine should not be reproduced or transmi?ed in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior permission from CIOLOOK. Reprint rights remain solely with CIOLOOK. Sales Execu?vesTim, Smith Partner with extensive experience in Middle East legal markets, specializing in corporate law, mergers, acquisitions, and regulatory compliance. Jad Chouman Partner, Head of Middle East HKA hka.com TECHNICAL Technical Head Peter Hayden Technical Consultant Victor Collins Legal expert specializing in international law, corporate governance, and risk management. Known for strategic legal advice and effective litigation support. Zain Iraq iq.zain.com Murad fares Lawyer SME-SMO Research Analyst Eric Smith SEO Execu?veAlen Spencer Experienced legal professional with expertise in corporate law, compliance, and regulatory matters. Skilled in contract negotiation and dispute resolution. Patrícia Medeiros Arias General Counsel Grupo Petrópolis grupopetropolis.com sales@ciolook.com June, 2025 Experienced company secretary with strong knowledge in corporate governance, compliance, and regulatory affairs. Skilled in stakeholder communication and legal documentation. Vijay Kumar Ojha Group Company Secretary Sharaf Group, Dubai sharafgroup.com

Patrícia Medeiros Arias General Counsel Grupo Petrópolis

I and empathetic leadership. Patrícia Medeiros Arias, General Counsel (Legal Manager) of Grupo Petrópolis, embodies this transformation. Her journey into the legal field is anchored in a profound desire to help others—a compass that has consistently guided her approach to law and leadership. Early Vision: A Calling to Help Others n the rapidly evolving landscape of corporate law, the role of General Counsel is no longer limited to legal advice. It demands strategic insight, business acumen, From an early age, Patrícia knew her professional path would be centered on helping people. This intrinsic motivation eventually found its fullest expression in law. When she decided to pursue a legal career, there was no doubt in her mind. Law, for her, was not just a career but a calling—a disciplined and impactful way to serve society. This foundational belief has shaped her leadership approach. Whether resolving disputes or creating preventive strategies, her focus remains constant: helping people. Her team is consistently driven by the same principle—to find legal solutions that not only meet company goals but serve the human element behind every issue. This alignment between personal conviction and professional execution is the hallmark of her leadership style. From her formative years, Patrícia envisioned a profession grounded in service. This natural inclination steered her toward law, a discipline that not only aligned with her personal mission but also offered a structured path to impact lives meaningfully. As she matured in the legal world, her leadership philosophy took root in this core value of service, evolving into a model that emphasizes proactive problem- solving, strategic alignment, and people-first principles. Strategic Clarity in High-Stakes Scenarios In this deep dive, we explore the perspectives and practices that have defined Patrícia’s leadership at Grupo Petrópolis. Through her voice, we gain insight into the mindset of a General Counsel who sees law as a conduit for transformation—not just in contracts and compliance, but in culture, innovation, and ethical progress. As General Counsel, Patrícia plays a vital role beyond legal advisement. Her strategic guidance in complex and high- stakes environments stems from a clear vision and a thorough understanding of risk. She emphasizes scenario mapping and categorization of risks as critical steps to empower her legal team. This methodical preparation instills confidence and direction across all levels. But technical expertise is not enough. Patrícia believes that every lawyer must possess a strong understanding of the business itself. Legal strategy is most effective when it is integrated with organizational objectives. Her team is encouraged to move beyond traditional legal roles to become active contributors to business strategy, aligning legal foresight with commercial vision. For me, law has always been more than a profession—it’s a way to serve people with purpose. Compliance as a Catalyst for Innovation In an era where innovation and compliance often seem at odds, Patrícia offers a refreshing perspective. She views compliance not as a constraint, but as an enabler of sustainable innovation. According to her, compliance sets the guardrails that make bold ideas viable and safe. Her leadership fosters this philosophy by encouraging team contributions, welcoming cross-functional feedback, and promoting benchmarking. By integrating compliance into the innovation process from the beginning, she ensures legal integrity while empowering teams to think creatively. For Patrícia, compliance and innovation are partners in progress, not adversaries.

Fostering a Culture Anchored in Values Legal Communication: Simplicity with Substance At Grupo Petrópolis, Patrícia has been instrumental in cultivating a legal department culture that mirrors both corporate and personal values. Simplicity, Commitment, Integrity, Respect, and Relationship are more than buzzwords; they are daily practices. One of the most consistent challenges in legal work is communication—translating complex concepts into clear, accessible language. Patrícia prioritizes clarity and inclusivity in all legal communications, ensuring that stakeholders, regardless of their background, fully understand the message. She believes that team synergy and proactivity are essential to effective legal work. The Legal Team under her guidance, operates not as an isolated unit but as a strategic partner to all business areas. This integration ensures that legal input enhances corporate strategy while reflecting the company's cultural DNA. She actively trains her team to avoid excessive legal jargon, recognizing that simplicity in language fosters trust and collaboration. Whether speaking with internal departments or external stakeholders, she ensures that legal insights are presented in a way that supports sound decision-making. Leadership in Crisis: Lessons from the Pandemic The COVID-19 pandemic was a defining moment for many leaders, and Patrícia was no exception. Leading her team through uncertainty, she turned to open communication and positive reinforcement. Her messages—"we will adapt," "we are in this together," and "everything will be fine"—helped maintain morale and cohesion. She also saw the pandemic as an opportunity. Through resilience and digital adaptation, her team not only weathered the crisis but also contributed to shaping favorable legal precedents. This experience reinforced her belief in turning adversity into advancement. Championing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) are integral to Patrícia’s leadership approach. She acknowledges that DEI issues often land on the desks of legal professionals, requiring both sensitivity and strategic handling. Over the years, addressing DEI has become not just a professional responsibility but a source of personal growth. I believe compliance doesn’t limit innovation—it enables it. Her experience shows that legal departments are increasingly pivotal in helping organizations navigate DEI challenges. Mentorship and Continued Growth Even experienced leaders need guidance. Patrícia draws strength from a Legal Committee composed of independent counselors and external experts, as well as from her direct reporting line to the CFO of the corporate group. This access to diverse perspectives supports her ongoing professional development.

risks, including privacy breaches and algorithmic bias. Her approach emphasizes the importance of legal governance and compliance in deploying these technologies responsibly. In the ESG space, Patrícia notes that the role of General Counsel has expanded significantly. Especially within governance, legal professionals are uniquely positioned to contribute structure, accountability, and regulatory alignment to ESG initiatives. I lead with values because culture is the foundation of everything we build. A Legacy of Integrity and Collaboration When asked how she hopes to be remembered, Patrícia is humble yet clear: as someone accessible, open to dialogue, and committed to collaboration. She hopes her resilience and problem-solving capabilities will serve as a model for others. Her leadership legacy, she believes, will be defined not only by her decisions but by the way she made people feel valued and heard. For her, leadership is not about command but about connection—a belief that continues to guide her journey every day. She believes in lifelong learning and continuous improvement. Engaging with mentors and peers, participating in legal forums, and staying attuned to global trends ensures that her leadership remains relevant and forward-thinking. A Leadership Blueprint for Legal Excellence Through her tenure at Grupo Petrópolis, Patrícia has demonstrated how legal leadership can transcend traditional boundaries. Her approach blends legal rigor with human empathy, strategic foresight with collaborative spirit. In doing so, she exemplifies what it means to lead with purpose in today’s complex and demanding legal landscape. Future-Ready Leadership: Embracing AI and ESG Looking ahead, Patrícia sees the legal profession evolving alongside emerging technologies and frameworks like AI, ESG, and digital ethics. She recognizes the dual responsibility: to leverage these tools for efficiency while ensuring they are governed by ethical standards. Her insights provide not just a window into effective legal leadership, but a broader blueprint for leading with conviction, clarity, and compassion. AI, in her view, can enhance decision-making, data analysis, and productivity. But it also introduces new

From Counsel to Catalyst What Makes a Legal Advisor Influential in Today's Market? I n the rapidly shifting terrain of global business and law, the role of a legal advisor has transcended its traditional confines. Once seen primarily as a gatekeeper of rules and compliance, today’s influential legal advisor is a multifaceted strategist, communicator, and innovator. They are not just interpreters of the law, but active participants in shaping the direction of their organizations. In this article, we delve into the core attributes that define a truly influential legal advisor in today’s competitive and dynamic marketplace. 1. Strategic Thinking Beyond Legal Boundaries A powerful legal advisor in today’s market is not limited to offering legal opinions; they are integral to business strategy. They understand that the law is not an isolated element but interwoven with every business decision—be it expansion, mergers, contracts, or technology integration. By aligning legal advice with organizational goals, they provide risk- aware but opportunity-driven counsel that aids decision- making. In-house legal advisors, particularly, are now seen as business partners. They sit alongside executives, contributing to boardroom decisions that shape the future of the company. This strategic engagement enhances their influence, making them indispensable assets in navigating market complexities. 2. Mastery of Emerging Legal Landscapes The world is evolving at breakneck speed—think data privacy, AI regulation, climate change policies, and ESG mandates. An influential legal advisor stays ahead by mastering these emerging areas. Their ability to interpret complex, evolving regulations and apply them practically is crucial. For instance, with regulations like the GDPR or the Digital Services Act, advisors who can translate legislative language into actionable business strategies are in high demand. Their foresight helps companies stay compliant and avoid 16 17 www.ciolook.com | June 2025 | www.ciolook.com | June 2025 |

reputational or financial damage, cementing their credibility and impact. ethical standards, ensure compliance, and guide decisions that reflect corporate responsibility. 3. Communication that Builds Trust In an era of heightened public scrutiny and activism, an advisor who champions ethical business practices becomes a voice of reason and responsibility—earning respect both inside and outside the organization. Communication is a fundamental pillar of influence. A competent legal advisor must explain intricate legal frameworks in language that business leaders, clients, and even employees can understand. Whether it’s a shareholder meeting or a crisis management scenario, their ability to simplify the complex and provide clear direction builds trust. 7. A Global and Inclusive Perspective The modern legal advisor operates in a globalized economy. This requires cultural intelligence and a strong grasp of international law and cross-border regulations. Advisors who can manage multinational compliance requirements and adapt to different legal systems bring added value to global corporations. Moreover, empathy plays a significant role here. Influential advisors listen before they speak. They understand the concerns and perspectives of stakeholders, ensuring their advice is not just legally sound but also emotionally intelligent. Additionally, inclusion and diversity are rising priorities in the legal field. Influential legal advisors advocate for equitable practices in their firms and across industries, further enhancing their relevance and reach. 4. A Technological Edge Technology is no longer optional in the legal world—it’s transformative. From legal research AI tools to contract automation and blockchain-based compliance systems, today's legal advisor must be tech-savvy. They don’t need to be coders, but they must know how to leverage legal tech to optimize efficiency, accuracy, and transparency. 8. Lifelong Learning and Mentorship The most influential legal advisors are perpetual learners. They read extensively, attend industry conferences, engage with legal think tanks, and are often part of bar associations or regulatory committees. Their hunger for knowledge keeps them sharp and forward-looking. For example, using AI-driven tools, a legal advisor can reduce the time spent on due diligence or identify risk patterns across multiple contracts. Advisors who adopt technology not only enhance their productivity but also showcase forward- thinking leadership—key to being influential. Many also mentor young professionals, sharing their wisdom and shaping the next generation of legal minds. This willingness to give back not only enhances their legacy but also broadens their sphere of influence. 5. Crisis Management Expertise Conclusion: Influence Rooted in Relevance and Responsibility Whether it’s a data breach, a product liability issue, or a reputational scandal, crises often put legal advisors at center stage. In these moments, an influential legal advisor remains calm under pressure and takes charge of navigating the legal, ethical, and operational challenges that follow. In summary, the role of a legal advisor in today’s market is both expansive and impactful. Influence is no longer defined by seniority or title alone but by relevance, responsiveness, and responsibility. The legal advisor of today is a dynamic blend of strategist, technologist, communicator, and ethicist—adding value far beyond traditional legal counsel. They coordinate with PR, HR, and leadership teams to ensure swift, lawful, and ethical responses. Their influence is most visible during such high-stakes situations, where the right legal steps can save a company from long-term damage. As organizations seek stability in uncertainty, the demand for such well-rounded legal advisors will only grow. Their ability to shape policy, guide ethics, and drive strategic decisions makes them true pillars of influence in the modern corporate world. 6. Ethics and Integrity at the Core Legal advisors are the moral compass of their organizations. Their influence doesn’t just stem from knowledge, but from unwavering integrity. Stakeholders rely on them to uphold 18 www.ciolook.com | June 2025 |

From Founda?on to Frui?on Why is a Digital Learning Strategy Important? A bound to locations and schedules, are being replaced by increasingly dynamic, diverse, and adaptive experiences. This is not just about incorporating technology into learning spaces—it requires a conscious, carefully designed digital learning strategy that synchronizes with organizational objectives as much as learner requirements. An electronic learning strategy is a road map for using technology to improve learning program effectiveness, reach, and impact. It's more than choosing tools or platforms; it's establishing how electronic solutions are being used for curriculum design, instructional delivery, and student engagement. s the digital revolution transforms all aspects of society, learning and training are also being radically altered. Conventional learning patterns, initially This article lays emphasis on the inherent benefits of the digital learning strategy and the transformative outcomes it enables. Increasing Learning Accessibility and Flexibility In a technology-facilitated world, a digital-based learning strategy covers more people with education and training. Internet-based environments in educational institutions or business settings provide students with the option to access content at their own pace and time. Conventional classroom learning is frequently handicapped by logistic issues that constrain access, but technology-based learning tools eliminate such constraints, enabling participation regardless of geographical or socio-economic location. The disabled or non-traditional schedule students are highly favored by the one-on-one access web sites can provide. Additionally, the ability of online learning to be flexible accommodates independent learning, crucial in fostering lifelong learning behaviors. Learners and working professionals are able to decide when and how they want to work through course material, not only enhancing retention 20 21 www.ciolook.com | June 2025 | www.ciolook.com | June 2025 |

but also resulting in ownership of their learning process. It accommodates a more learner-centric model, one that provides learning around personal needs and objectives rather than restricting it to one-size-fits-all. capturing, analyzing, and acting on the data. Through analysis of learner behavior patterns, teachers and administrators are able to spot areas of strength as well as areas of improvement, and hence make better-informed decisions. Fostering Engagement and Personalization This data-centric strategy facilitates continuous innovation and improvement in the creation and delivery of the curriculum. It also supports accountability and openness since stakeholders are able to track real-time performance metrics. When used within a comprehensive strategic framework, analytics not only support personal success but also facilitate institutional growth and development. This loop ensures that the digital learning strategy is under continuous movement and keeping pace with changing educational objectives. Effective digital learning employs technology to build dynamic, engaged learning environments. Through the use of multimedia resources, gamified materials, and adaptive learning software, digital learning can sustain learner interest and motivation over other approaches. Active involvement is at the center of knowledge development and memory, and digital platforms provide the promise of turning passive learning into an active, immersive experience. Conclusion Personalization is a second major benefit of learning online. Sophisticated learning management systems can leverage the analytics power to tailor content based on the learner's interests and pace. The tailored approach guarantees that learners are provided with the appropriate amount of challenge and support, maximizing the effectiveness of their learning. An online solution that harnesses these technologies can improve results significantly by adapting to individual learning styles and requirements. The value of an e-learning strategy cannot be too highly praised within the modern context of education and training. It increases accessibility, stimulates participation, provides consistency, and aligns learning with wider objectives while driving innovation and evidence-based decision-making. Through the investment and construction of digital strategies, organizations are enabled not only to respond to the short- term needs of learners but also to map out a safe, inclusive, and forward-looking future for learning. Facilitating Scalability and Efficiency One of the most important advantages of a digital learning strategy is scalability. Organizations and institutions can deliver content to thousands of users at the same time without sacrificing quality. This is especially useful for multinational companies and virtual universities that must reach out to a dispersed and diverse group of people. Digital channels allow for consistent messaging and training so everyone is hearing the same thing no matter where they are located. Efficiency is also enhanced through automation and streamlined administrative procedures. Procedures like automated assessment, course enrollment, and monitoring decrease the administrative workload on teachers and enable them to concentrate on instructional quality. Due to this, institutions can better re-deploy resources and enhance overall productivity. An open digital strategy enables to graph these efficiencies and link them to current systems with minimal disruption. Building Data-Driven Decision Making Virtual learning environments create vast amounts of data that can be leveraged to enhance learning results as well as business operations. An effective strategy has mechanisms for 22 www.ciolook.com | June 2025 |

The Most Influential Leaders in Legal Services to Watch in 2025

The Most Influential Leaders in Legal Services to Watch in 2025

Presentation Transcript

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