I am pleased to share my professional biography, highlighting my experience in intellectual property, corporate governance, and compliance. With a passion for helping businesses protect their assets and navigate legal complexities, I have worked across multiple industries to provide strategic legal guidance.

Douglas D. Smith, Esq., is a highly respected attorney and franchise law expert with over 45 years of experience helping businesses navigate the complexities of franchising. As the founder of FranchiseSmith, he has guided clients ranging from startups to multinational corporations through the intricacies of franchise agreements, regulatory compliance, and strategic growth. Known for his pragmatic, cost-effective approach and personable demeanor, Mr. Smith is also a prolific author and speaker, contributing to the field through publications and presentations with the International Franchise Association and American Bar Association. Fluent in Romanian and French, his global perspective and deep expertise make him a trusted advisor and leader in the franchise industry.

Elena Jacque is an accomplished corporate attorney with deep expertise in mergers and acquisitions, capital markets, and corporate governance. As Counsel in the Technology Companies Group at Goodwin Procter LLP, she advises high-growth companies, private equity sponsors, and boards on complex transactions, including venture financing, public and private M&A, and de-SPAC deals. With a career spanning top law firms and an investment banking legal secondee role at Goldman Sachs, she brings a strategic and global perspective to corporate law. Fluent in multiple languages and recognized in *Best Lawyers in America©* for her excellence in corporate law and M&A, Elena is a trusted advisor known for her precision, integrity, and ability to navigate sophisticated legal and financial landscapes.

I’m excited to share my executive biography, which highlights my journey as an attorney, author, and negotiation expert specializing in procurement, supply chain, and complex contract negotiations. With over 30 years of experience, I have dedicated my career to helping organizations optimize contracts, mitigate risks, and build strategic partnerships. If you're looking for expert insights on contract negotiation or board leadership, let’s connect.

Rosanna Lipscomb is a distinguished leader in global regulatory affairs and antitrust strategy, serving as Director of Regulatory Affairs at Google. With over a decade of experience, she leads a team of legal experts engaging with antitrust regulators worldwide and advises Alphabet’s business and product teams on achieving innovative objectives within complex and evolving legal frameworks. Known for her strategic vision and deep expertise, she oversees mergers, acquisitions, investments, and foreign direct investments, playing a pivotal role in Google's global operations. A Life Member of the Council on Foreign Relations and a recognized thought leader in her field, Rosanna’s accolades include being named to Global Competition Review’s “40 Under 40” and the 2016 Women Leaders in Tech by *The Recorder*. Her academic credentials—spanning law, international policy, and science—along with her early career experiences, including Peace Corps service, highlight her dedication to ethical leadership, global impact, and fostering collaboration across industries.

Joseph H. Jolissaint is a distinguished Senior Litigation Attorney and founder of a highly regarded legal practice in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. With over 15 years of experience, he has built a reputation for expertly navigating complex legal challenges and securing favorable outcomes for clients in workers’ compensation, personal injury, and employment law. Recognized for his integrity, strategic acumen, and mastery of legal frameworks, Mr. Jolissaint combines meticulous research, innovative strategies, and compelling advocacy to achieve justice for his clients. As a trusted mediator and thought leader, he has contributed to shaping state legal guidelines and advancing the legal profession through education and service. His unwavering commitment to ethical practice and client success underscores his standing as a respected legal advocate and leader.

Lana Manitta is a distinguished attorney with nearly three decades of experience specializing in federal and white-collar criminal defense, litigation, and crisis management. As the owner of The Law Office of Lana Manitta, PLLC, she has earned a reputation for her integrity, strategic problem-solving, and compassionate advocacy. Recognized as a leading white-collar criminal defense attorney, Lana combines her extensive legal expertise with exceptional communication and interpersonal skills to deliver outstanding results for her clients. A committed leader and mentor, she actively contributes to professional organizations and speaks on critical issues like juvenile justice reform and criminal justice best practices, reflecting her dedication to advancing the legal profession and serving her community.

I am excited to share my professional biography, showcasing my journey across law, education, publishing, and leadership. Over the years, I have developed expertise in strategic thinking, advocacy, and collaboration while championing causes I deeply believe in, such as education, diversity, and inclusion.

I’m excited to share my professional journey, highlighting over two decades of experience in criminal defense and my dedication to advancing justice and protecting individual rights. My story reflects a commitment to excellence, resilience, and mentoring the next generation of legal professionals. Here is my biography.

Anthony Ciriaco is a seasoned executive compensation attorney with over 40 years of experience, specializing in employee benefits law, corporate governance, and fiduciary responsibilities. As a partner at Vorys, Sater, Seymour and Pease LLP, he has built a reputation for advising both public and private companies, as well as labor unions and nonprofits, on complex matters related to executive compensation, retirement benefits, and health and welfare plans. His expertise spans industries including retail, banking, home building, insurance, and technology. Anthony is also a dedicated community leader, having served as Chairman of the Board for both Club Ohio Soccer and Gladden Community House, where he contributed to the growth of youth sports and social services. With a JD from the University of North Carolina and a BS in Commerce from the University of Virginia, Anthony brings a wealth of knowledge, strategic insight, and leadership to every board and advisory role he takes on.

As a Florida Bar Board Certified Condominium and Planned Development Attorney, I have spent over a decade guiding community associations toward sustainable growth and legal compliance. My passion lies in building stronger, environmentally conscious, and inclusive communities through innovative legal solutions. Here is my biography.

With over 45 years of professional experience in law and leadership, I’ve had the privilege of serving organizations and communities through strategic guidance and dedicated service. From my legal career to my board leadership roles, I remain committed to fostering positive change and driving success. Here is my biography.

Leigh-Ann Durant’s exploration of the intersection between legal expertise and strategic business leadership reveals the transformative potential of integrating these domains to drive organizational success. In an era marked by regulatory complexity and fierce competition, legal professionals are stepping beyond traditional advisory roles to become strategic partners in shaping business strategies. By leveraging their insights into risk management, operational efficiency, and innovative legal solutions, they play a pivotal role in enhancing decision-making, ensuring compliance, and fostering growth. This collaborative synergy not only strengthens governance but also positions legal professionals as essential contributors to achieving long-term business objectives.

Meredith Jackson is an innovative and resourceful executive with a distinguished career leading corporate transactions, growth initiatives, and governance.   Meredith has a proven...

I am thrilled to share an overview of my professional journey, highlighting over a decade of experience in insurance law, litigation, and personal injury advocacy. From managing high-stakes cases to serving my community, my passion for using my skills to help others drives me every day. Here is my biography.

I’m excited to share my professional biography, detailing my journey as a business leader and attorney dedicated to empowering purpose-driven organizations. With over two decades of experience in law, HR, and organizational development, I work with leaders and companies to foster growth, resilience, and impact that transcends traditional metrics. Here is my biography.