Leaders

Looking back on your 10-year career, what moments stand out as turning points or successes? What's your success mantra?

I don't focus on grand accolades or milestones. Instead, I cherish the daily interactions where clients and colleagues come to me for guidance, trusting my expertise and judgment. These small wins, where I can help others brainstorm or navigate challenges, are what truly matter to me.

My success mantra is simply humility. When you consider yourself an expert, it's easy to forget to listen, be open-minded, and constantly learn. So, I remind myself to stay humble, put aside ego and preconceptions, and actively ask questions. This allows me to continue growing and learning, no matter my position or experience. It might be challenging, but it's crucial for staying grounded and successful.

What are some of the biggest challenges you've encountered in working with clients?

Over a decade in this field, as both a lawyer and a leader, I've found that the biggest hurdle is perception. People often see lawyers and law firms as stiff and formal, and sometimes even scary. This can be a real barrier, preventing clients from reaching out or feeling comfortable discussing their concerns.

The key to overcoming this, I believe, is building trust. Investing time and energy in building strong relationships with my clients is crucial. They need to understand what I do, that I'm an expert, and that I have their best interests at heart. It's challenging to shift long-held perceptions, and each client comes with their preconceived notions. Building trust takes time and effort, but it's essential for forming effective working relationships.

For me, this means actively listening, showing empathy, and being readily available. By taking the time to understand their needs and concerns, I can be a trusted advisor and build strong, lasting relationships with my clients. It's not easy, but it's worth it for the impactful partnerships it creates.

How do you see women's representation in law evolving in the UAE, and how can we encourage more women to enter the field?

While I acknowledge some stereotypes and challenges, I see immense opportunities for women in UAE law. To encourage and empower more women, I believe that formal and informal mentorship is crucial. Sharing knowledge, experiences, and resources, while opening professional networks, can significantly empower and support aspiring women. At Deliveroo, we actively promote mentorship and are proud of our diverse and inclusive legal team.

What advice would you offer aspiring women leaders and entrepreneurs?

Be proactive and speak up. Don't shy away from asking questions, be curious, and actively seek guidance. It's easy to passively follow the path, but taking initiative is key. Remember, even the most successful individuals started somewhere. Stay humble and learn continuously. Always assume there's something new to learn, be open to feedback, and strive to improve. This humility will make you a better lawyer and leader in the long run.

Alaa Eltom, Legal Director, Deliveroo

Having transitioned from private practice to an in-house role, Alaa thrives in both environments, approaching challenges with agility, innovation, and courage. She prioritizes building strong relationships, fostering open communication, and understanding the needs of her clients.