Career biography

In the ever-evolving field of corporate legal affairs, Mr. Saurabh Tamang is a distinguished leader known for his exceptional expertise and innovative approach. As the Head of Legal at Sahakar Group, a diversified conglomerate with interests in sectors such as toll collection, real estate, construction, mining, and renewable energy, Saurabh has made significant contributions to the organisation’s legal strategy and operations.

An alumnus of Government Law College, Mumbai, Saurabh has built his legal career with prominent multinational corporations including Thomson Reuters, GroupM (WPP Group), JP Morgan Chase, and Blue Star Infotech (now Infogain). His broad experience has honed his skills in managing complex legal matters across various industries.

As Legal Head at Sahakar Group, Saurabh is responsible for a wide array of legal functions, including contract negotiation, regulatory compliance, risk management, and dispute resolution. Over the past two years, his leadership has played a critical role in navigating legal complexities, ensuring the organisation’s compliance, and safeguarding its interests.

Saurabh’s leadership abilities are demonstrated through his success in building & managing in-house legal teams across multiple organisations. His strategic insight and operational acumen have streamlined legal processes and contributed to the organisation’s long-term success. His legal expertise spans multiple sectors, including real estate, construction, media, technology, and employment law. His adept management of legal issues within these domains has been instrumental in driving growth and mitigating risks for his organisation.

Saurabh’s contributions to the legal profession have been widely recognised. He was recently honoured with the Lex Falcon Global Award – 2023 at the International Legal & IP Conference in Dubai. He was also named the ‘Legal Personality of the Month’ in the June 2023 edition of Jurisprudence magazine by the Global Lawyers Association and listed among the Top Ten Chief Legal Officers – 2023 by CEO Insights. Most recently, he was enlisted as the Top General Counsel 2023 by Forbes India.

In sum, Saurabh Tamang exemplifies leadership and excellence in the legal field. His visionary approach and unmatched expertise continue to shape corporate legal affairs, making him a key figure at Sahakar Group and an inspiration to aspiring legal professionals.

How do you motivate and manage the other members of your legal team well?

As the head of the legal team, I consistently strive to ensure that the work of the legal team aligns with the broader goals and objectives of the organisation. By understanding the company’s strategic priorities and proactively aligning our efforts, we not only support the overall mission but also contribute to the company’s long-term success. My leadership has been focused on transforming the culture and perspective of our in-house legal team by fostering collaboration, empowering individuals, and promoting continuous learning and innovation, all while embracing diversity and inclusion.

India is an economy that is rapidly growing and expected to be one of the powerhouses of the 21st Century. How do you see the role of GCs there changing in this environment?

As India’s economy continues to expand rapidly and integrate more deeply into the global market, the role of GCs is undergoing a significant transformation. This evolution reflects both the opportunities and challenges presented by a dynamic economic environment.

Traditionally, GCs have been seen primarily as legal advisors focused on compliance and risk management. However, in the context of India’s burgeoning economy, GCs are increasingly becoming strategic partners. Their involvement in shaping business strategies and decisions is becoming more pronounced. They are expected to offer insights that align legal considerations with business objectives, thereby influencing corporate strategy and driving growth.

It is pertinent to note that India’s regulatory landscape is complex and continuously evolving, with frequent updates and new regulations spanning various sectors. GCs must stay abreast of these changes to ensure that their organisations remain compliant. This involves not only understanding domestic laws but also international regulations, especially as businesses expand globally. The ability to interpret and adapt to these regulations is crucial for avoiding legal pitfalls and seizing new opportunities.

The rapid advancement of technology presents both opportunities and challenges. GCs must navigate legal issues related to digital transformation, including cybersecurity, data protection, and intellectual property rights. They are expected to provide strategic advice on technology-related transactions and ensure that technological innovations comply with legal standards.

In a fast-paced and unpredictable environment, GCs must be adept at managing crises. This includes handling legal disputes, regulatory investigations, and reputational issues. Effective crisis management requires not only legal expertise but also the ability to make quick, strategic decisions that protect the organisation’s interests.

The role of General Counsels in India is therefore evolving from a traditional legal advisor to a strategic business partner. They are increasingly involved in shaping corporate strategy, managing diverse legal risks, and ensuring compliance in a rapidly changing environment. Their ability to integrate legal considerations with business goals will be pivotal in driving organisational success and navigating the complexities of India’s dynamic economy.