Gitanjali Sakhuja, Associate General Counsel at AmeriCares, shares her dynamic journey from California to living in multiple countries to Washington, D.C., exploring a diverse legal career path. Gitanjali offers valuable perspectives on the differences between in-house counsel and traditional legal roles, focusing on the critical aspects of compliance and sustainability within a global framework.
She discusses the importance of collaboration, creativity, and lifelong learning in legal practice, and opens up about her mentoring initiatives and strategies for building strong professional networks. The conversation also touches on balancing a fulfilling career with personal passions—highlighted by Gitanjali’s love for Bollywood dancing and exercise—and her dedication to aligning her work objectives with helping others achieve their goals, all while maintaining compliance with legal standards.
HIGHLIGHTS:
00:28 Introduction and Background
03:23 Path to Legal Career and Advocacy
05:41 Understanding Compliance and Sustainability
14:01 Leadership and Career Development
25:17 Working as In-House Counsel
33:20 Bollywood Dancing and Work-Life Balance
37:54 Building Team Culture and Connection
43:06 Diversity in Compliance and Closing Thoughts
BIOGRAPHY:
Gitanjali Sakhuja is an accomplished in-house legal counsel and certified Ethics & Compliance leader with a global perspective, known for turning complex challenges into actionable solutions. With expertise spanning governance, risk management, global compliance, and strategic legal direction, she brings a collaborative, creative approach to fostering growth and mindful leadership within international and corporate entities. Outside of work, Gitanjali is passionate about mentoring, teaching Bollywood and Bhangra dance, and supporting community initiatives.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gitanjalisakhuja/
LINKS:
Americares: https://www.americares.org/
Streetwise Partners: https://www.streetwisepartners.org
Legal Mentor Network: https://www.legalmentornetwork.org
Eyesea: https://eyesea.org
