www.canadianlawyermag.com 27
Passing the baton
Being a mentor and role model can be a
powerful influence on others – especially on
those with shared experiences. Not only can
they take inspiration from who that is and
what they represent, but the role model is
also a shining light as a beacon of hope.
Kikelomo Lawal, a winner in the in-house
category and the first Black general counsel
at a major financial institution in Canada
(CIBC), is that person. And she wants to use
her influence to motivate others.
"My goal is to remain true to myself and true
to my goal of paying it forward, recognizing
the opportunities I've had, the mentoring and
advice I've received, and the work and life
experiences that I hope others can learn from."
As CIBC's GC, Lawal wears many hats.
She is the global leader for the bank's legal
and government relations, as well as the
corporate secretary and ombudsman. She
also performs privacy law functions. She has
been through major litigation and significant
transactions and also released CIBC's ESG
strategy and climate transition plans.
Lawal has also served on the executive
committee of the National GC Network,
which supports Black, Indigenous, and
People of Colour legal leaders.
Asked what influence means to her, Lawal
replies, "In a professional setting, I consider
it to be knowing when and how to use any
power or sway I may have so as to achieve
good outcomes for the bank, for the teams I
lead, and for those who may look to me as an
example, adviser or mentor."
HILLCOUNSEL.COM
A reputation
built on trust.
A litigation boutique for over
30 years, the firm continues
to be sought after in the fields
of litigation, arbitration
and mediation.
