Governance Hot 100: Meet our governance experts recognised in 2025
Congratulations to our governance experts recognised this year by the DMJ Governance Hot 100. We were thrilled to see the range of categories in which the team were mentioned, a real reflection of the breadth and depth of expertise we bring our clients.
Technology Innovator: Nicola Lambourne. Since stepping into her role as Company Secretary of Law Debenture, Nicky has been thinking of new ways in which technology can not only help at a Group level, but also for LawDeb's professional services company secretarial team. A good example is the work she has undertaken exploring different AI tools to help take notes and generate a first draft of meeting actions, balancing the sensitivities of confidential Board and Committee discussions with the efficiencies
these tools can bring to the role.
ESG Champion: Renee Sinamtwa. Renee set up the Our Rainbow Nation Community Group - a networking and support community, for LawDeb employees of diverse backgrounds to 'feel at home'. Through the community Renee has spearheaded various initiatives such as educational events for both members and allies, a video on Black History Month and a guess the investor initiative signposting how black inventors were often glossed over by their white counterparts and not given credit for their inventions. A potluck supper was convened to drive engagement and awareness of the initiative.
Relationship Manager: Alex Smart. Alex is most deserving of the Relationship Manager award for her exceptional work with Financial Services clients, having transformed her primary FS client's company secretariat from an administrative function to a trusted source of governance advice. Coupled with exemplary client focus, demonstrated by her proactive sharing of insights from industry events like the 2024 UK Corporate Governance code dinner, Alex's problem solving skills and initiative have earned her a reputation as a
trusted advisor.
Future Leaders: James Jones. James, a former trainee, has rapidly ascended to Assistant Manager through three promotions in just 2.5 years. James excels in process improvement and relationship building, delivering outstanding results for clients. His recent 'playbook' for the German trading entity showcases his meticulous approach. James harmonizes stakeholder relationships, engaging effectively with senior individuals, including the CEO and NEDs. Now managing direct reports and collaborating with the Head of Nomura Company Secretariat, James is actively developing his leadership skills, positioning him as a promising future leader in corporate governance.
