Good governance isn’t optional - it transforms your strategy, shapes stakeholder trust and drives profit.

Poor governance can destroy reputations, trigger lawsuits, and put directors personally at risk. Today’s stakeholders demand accountability - and they won’t settle for less.

ESG: Master Board Governance and
Reduce Risk

Working with Rashmi is a pleasure because she's exceptionally professional, very astute and you know that she's working with your best interests at heart.

Mr S Bridson

Candid portrait of Rashmi Dubé - multi-award-winning entrepreneur, consultant, speaker and writer.

How Can Rashmi Help Your Business?

Helped directors and board members transform their organisations.

Fostered "future thinking" in all the businesses she works with.

Served on several boards where she's helped develop strategy and mentor board members.

In a career spanning 25 years, Rashmi has:

Is your business ready to evolve?

I cannot recommend Rashmi strongly enough. She handled every aspect of our negotiations with utmost confidence & integrity, and was instrumental in bringing them to a successful conclusion.

Miss A Ryu

Candid photo of Rashmi Dubé - multi-award-winning entrepreneur, consultant, speaker and writer.

Book Rashmi for Your Event

Engage Rashmi to inspire your audience at your next event

Rashmi is often invited by businesses and press to speak on topics including:

Beyond ESG Reports: Embedding Purpose into Leadership

Combines Rashmi's ESG expertise with boardroom experience.
Highlights action over box-ticking - something boards and executives need.
Timely for conferences, panels, and business schools.

Adaptability in Leadership: From Courtroom to Boardroom to Startup

Captures Rashmi's journey as a lawyer, founder, columnist and speaker.
Speaks to resilience, reinvention and embracing change.
Perfect for corporate, legal, and entrepreneurial audiences.

The Power of Impromptu: Speaking with Confidence When It Counts

Leverages Rashmi's workshops on impromptu speaking.
Tackles a real fear professionals face - speaking without a script.
Great for leadership, team development, and communication training.

Just some of the companies Rashmi has worked with

I have no hesitation in recommending Rashmi as a very competent, hard-working, personable lawyer with excellent manners and a tenacious approach to
getting the job done!

Mr T Bowkett

Relaxed photo of Rashmi Dubé - multi-award-winning entrepreneur, consultant, speaker and writer.

Read Rashmi's column

Buy Rashmi's book

Rashmi writes speeches, blogs, books and a weekly business column in the Yorkshire Post.

Author, columnist, storyteller.

We find Rashmi is always dedicated in her approach and provides excellent results. She has always kept us fully informed with regular updates and she's a delight to work with.

Mr L Curtis

Rashmi on Insta

@rashmi.dube

I am so often in front of the camera 🎥 it’s nice to sit behind it and recall my other passion (first being writing ) image captured late night last year . #photography #blackandwhite #passion #hobby

As Summer sets aside slowly
The cold creeps in
Another summer older
Another summer of memories built
I look to winter with new eyes.

#summer #winter

Don’t just jump into bed 🛌 until you get the right papers signed . Directors shareholders partners #lawyer #disputes #director #shareholder #partnership

Did you expect Betty Davies ?

Why you need to learn her lessons to get noticed
#bettydavis #lawyer #disputes #personalbranding

What a weekend !!!!

@lionesses @oasis @onegoldennugget

Shocked and sad #ripozzy

Photo 📸by @thetimes newspaper - headline reposted as a photo from @thetimes

Filming day with @gunnercookellp talking about what I have seen in changes in law over nearly 30 years and why Gunnercooke is my chosen model as a lawyer and business women . #lawyer #ceo #disputes #mediation #esg

Lets make a better future together

#diversity on #board of #director matters - have you thought about an advisory board ? #history

Milestone yesterday celebrating 🎉 5 years with @gunnercookellp .

My life my choice
No billable hours
No targets
I choose

Is it for you ? I don’t know 🤷🏽‍♀️ so let’s chat 💬

#lawyer #lawyerlife⚖ #mediator #disputes

Why did I do it ?

1 July marked 5 years at gunnercooke and here is what I can say about the experience .

1 amazing people ! Yes it’s the people . I maybe self employed but I am
Never alone - there is always an army of people with me and I am lucky encough ro call friends.

2. The freedom to choose how to design my life the way I want. I get to choose

✨The clients I work with
✨the hours ok the business
✨no billable targets

gunnercooke is forward thinking and changing the landscape of how law firms work .

Is it for everyone? Let’s have a chat .

For me it was what helps me design the life I want and need .

Thanks to everyone at gunnercooke who helped me on my journey so far . Here is to next 5 years 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽 I am sure it will fly by as quick as this one .

#lawyer @gunnercookellp #mediator #disputes

You have have the power and it’s your choice to use it ! ✨

The Power of Choice

In conflict—whether business, personal, or legal—choice is often the hidden lever that changes outcomes.

✨ Choose your environment:
Not every table is the right one. The tone of a negotiation is heavily influenced by the space it’s held in. Neutral ground? Safe setting? These aren’t luxuries—they’re strategy.

🗣 Choose your words:
Words can escalate or resolve. In mediation, it’s not about winning the argument—it’s about being heard, understood, and finding resolution. Precision + empathy = progress.

🚧 Know your boundaries:
This is non-negotiable. Understanding what’s acceptable—and what isn’t—safeguards you from giving too much or reacting from emotion. Boundaries allow for respect on both sides.

Mediation isn’t a soft alternative—it’s a smart one.

It gives people back control, clarity, and often, dignity.

I’ve seen time and again: the best resolutions come not from aggression, but from intention.

#lawyer #communication #mediation

When silence in a conversation should remain silent and when should you respond . ?

1. Use Silence to Command the Room

Why: Leaders who aren’t afraid of silence project calm authority and confidence.
How: In meetings or presentations, pause intentionally. Let your words land. A brief silence can emphasize your message more than any volume ever could.

💡 Presence isn’t loud—it’s grounded.

⸻

2. Listen with Your Whole Body

Why: When a team member goes quiet, it’s often what’s not said that matters. Presence means tuning in fully.
How: Maintain eye contact, nod gently, and hold the space without rushing to respond. Silence gives others permission to open up or find their voice.

💡 Silence can be the most generous form of attention.

⸻

3. Ask, Don’t Fill

Why: Leaders often feel the need to “fix” awkward silences. But presence means resisting the urge to rescue.
How: Instead of talking over the quiet, ask open questions like:
• “What are you thinking right now?”
• “Take your time—what’s really important here?”

💡 Empowered leaders don’t fear silence—they respect it.

#Leadership #silence #lawyer #disputes

Love what I do!

I help clients find solutions.

They come to me when:

🔹 A dispute needs resolving, settling — or taken to court out of principle.
🔹 They want to avoid escalation and achieve an early resolution.
🔹 They need a steady hand to navigate complex, high-stakes situations.

What do they gain?

✅ Peace of mind — knowing I’ve got it under control.

✅ Emotional clarity — I manage expectations and offer insight, strategy, and calm in what can feel like an unknown and unforgiving landscape.

✅ Strategic empowerment — clients walk away not just with a resolution, but a deeper understanding of how to manage similar issues in future.

What’s in it for me?

It’s every “Thank you” that reminds me why I do what I do.

💬 How do you manage conflict before it becomes a crisis?
💬 Do you know who you’d turn to when things start to unravel?

Always have a go to !

Follow me for more tips on

Dealing with disputes & ESG

#funvibes

When you just need a little space , good friends and great music 🎵 @thenedlondon ❤️👏🏽

@jufarren

If you wait too long to take action, the snow hardens around you, and getting out becomes much harder (and more expensive).

🔹 Trust your instincts.
🔹 Rely on experience.
🔹 Move fast, move smart.

Don’t let hesitation freeze your momentum.

#lawyer #disputes #litigation #esg

@kylie celebrating 🎉 her birthday 🎂 with all @o2arena last night .

#kylie #lawyerslife

Why We Have to Be Brave All the Time

We don’t have to be brave all the time. And that’s the bravest thing I can say.

The pressure to constantly show courage, take risks, and push boundaries is exhausting. LinkedIn feeds overflow with stories of people who “took the leap,” “bet on themselves,” and “embraced discomfort.” While these stories inspire, they can also create an unrealistic standard that courage must be our default setting.

Real bravery includes knowing when to rest. When to say no. When to choose stability over growth because that’s what you need right now.

Some of the most courageous people I know:

→ The CEO /Lawyer who prioritised their mental health and built an empire

→ The entrepreneur who closed a struggling business instead of burning out

→ The employee who set boundaries with a demanding client - whilst still still a trainee !

→ The leader who admitted they didn’t know the answer

Bravery isn’t always loud or visible.

Sometimes it’s quiet persistence. Sometimes it’s asking for help.
Sometimes it’s choosing the safe path when everyone expects you to take the risky one.

We celebrate the big, bold moves because they make for compelling stories. But the small acts of courage—showing up authentically, speaking honestly in meetings, choosing rest over hustle—these matter just as much.

#Lawyer #disputes #brave #winning

Give yourself permission to not be brave today.

A beak

Taking breaks at work isn’t just a luxury—it’s a productivity booster! 🚀

Research shows employees who regularly take breaks are:

🔵 13% more productive
🔵 62% better work-life balance
🔵 43% greater ability to manage stress and overall satisfaction.

Top 2 tips to make the most of your breaks:

1. Step away from your desk — even a short walk or eating in a different space resets your brain and reduces stress.
2. Schedule your breaks — use timers or calendar tools to create regular downtime and avoid burnout.

You are the assest ! Project the asset.

#lawyer #legalwins #businesswins

#lawyer #disputes #legalwins #businesswins #winning

New to me?

Disputes WSG lawyer @gunnercooke
Chartered Director = gold standard for Neds /directors

I see so many different definitions which means the conversation can lead to further confusion.

Understanding Sustainability in a Business Context

The term “sustainability” has become increasingly broad in business – but what does it actually mean in practice?

At its core, sustainability in business typically involves:

✅ Environmental responsibility – Reducing carbon emissions, managing waste, and using renewable resources
✅ Economic viability – Building profitable models that are resilient over the long term
✅ Social impact – Upholding fair labour practices and contributing positively to communities

Many organisations now adopt the Triple Bottom Line: People, Planet, Profit – aiming to balance social, environmental, and economic priorities.

In practice, this often includes:

🔹 Setting carbon reduction targets
🔹 Embracing circular economy principles (reuse, recycle, redesign)
🔹 Ensuring supply chain responsibility
🔹 Improving resource efficiency (using less water, energy, and materials)

However, the absence of standardised definitions does present challenges. Some businesses use sustainability as a buzzword – leading to accusations of greenwashing.

That’s why stakeholders increasingly expect measurable outcomes and transparent reporting.

How is your organisation embedding sustainability into its strategy – and how do you ensure it’s more than just a label?

#legal #legalwins #businesswins #winning #esg #sustainability

ESG litigation is accelerating-and companies that treat ESG as a box-ticking exercise are finding themselves exposed.

❗️The most common pitfalls?

❌ Greenwashing: Misleading ESG claims or incomplete disclosures can lead to lawsuits and regulatory action

❌Supply chain lapses: Failing to monitor suppliers for environmental or human rights risks is a growing source of legal claims

❌Poor documentation: Without clear records of ESG due diligence, companies struggle to defend themselves if challenged

✨How to protect your business:✨

✅ Treat ESG as a core compliance and risk issue, not just PR

✅ Regularly review and update your ESG policies and risk register.

✅ Ensure your board and senior leaders understand their legal responsibilities and the company’s exposure

✅Invest in independent audits and robust documentation for all ESG claims and disclosures

👩🏽‍⚖️ESG is now a legal obligation, not a “nice-to-have.” Companies that embed ESG into their compliance culture are best placed to avoid costly litigation and reputational damage

[alt photo of peacock just nice to have ]

#esg #sustainability #lawyer #disputes #greenwashing

Let’s Play have you ever used the phrase “without prejudice”

apparently it’s like a magic phrase for secrecy or politeness, rather than its real legal use in settlement negotiations.

Examples:

⭐️Without prejudice, I’d like my neighbour’s hedge trimmed by Friday or I’ll call the council.”

(As if “without prejudice” magically turns a petty complaint into a secret legal threat, even though there’s no dispute or negotiation involved).

⭐️“Without prejudice, can you pop round and feed my cat next week?”

(Believing “without prejudice” is a polite way to ask for favours, when in reality it has nothing to do with everyday requests).

⭐️“Without prejudice, I admit I did scratch your car, but let’s keep this between us.”

(Trying to use “without prejudice” as a cloak for confessions, thinking it’ll keep their admission hidden forever, even though it doesn’t work that way).

✅ Rule

“without prejudice” basis, to be used in a genuine attempt to settle the dispute.

Any other fun 🤩 phrases ?

#legal #legalwins #businesswins #disputes #ceo

Lesson for business can be found everywhere .

Over the weekend I did my novice competition for the bench press . There was so much I have learnt from Sophia Ellis and her coaching style . She makes truely a great leader. My key takeaways

✅ she prioritises others whilst coaching and their emotions. It’s about them .

✅ she remains pleasant at all times and calm . So if I am getting frustrated 😩 her explanations and calm approach grounds me .

✅ on competition day - she made sure I was informed at every step what was to happen. I never felt alone and always supported

✅ she lent me part of her kit .

Of course there are other points such as discipline , commitment and consistency in both the doing and the leadership.

Have you come across a leader who has shown exceptional skill and if so what was that skill ?

#legalwins #buainesswins #powerlifting #leadership

Thank you to @sophiastrength for the training , support and amazing coaching to get me to my novice competition!

#powerlifting #competition

Some days are built to connect with others . Allowing us to explore new ideas, relax the mind and become creative.

#weekendvibes #lawyer #legalwins #businesswins #winning

Why a personal challenge changes my bottom line .

Ok. Personal challenges that I set have become a powerful ritual for growth. The benefits have surprised me in their depth and reach.

On a personal level, these challenges build resilience. They force me outside comfort zones. They create stories worth telling. They generate new skills almost by accident. They connect me with unexpected communities.

In business, the impact is equally profound.

⭐️Problem-solving muscles strengthen with each challenge..

⭐️Confidence in tackling uncertainty grows steadily.

⭐️Networks expand in directions I couldn’t have planned.

The key is set the goal and make it a non negotiable.

In the past I have done things like stand up comedy, write a book, sing in public . This year - my first bench press competition ! My trainer Sophia Ellis Team GB 🇬🇧 powerlifting coach !

Take aways so far

🟢 life happens , obstacles arise , you have to make the time and find a way to train to get the results .

- looking for that next big challenge after this so any recommendations would be appreciated

#LegalWins #BusinessWins #lawyer #ceo #ned #founder #powerlifting

Rock up as your future self !

Coffee last week with a person who was “seeking advice” . Always happy to help but it could have turned into an interview . The person however came unprepared ….

An opportunity is made sometimes. Turn up and be prepared to pitch !

#lawyer #legalwin #businesswin #dispute #esg #sustainability #defamation #founder @ki.networking lawyer @gunnercookellp #showingup #impromptu #elevatorpitch

When is it ok to say No ?

My values did not align with one of the people I met last week for coffee. I made decision by the end of the day I will not be doing business with them .

Was I wrong ?

#Values #businessdeals

I am a business advisor #advisor #lawyer

Watch out for time wasters !

Have a plan
Have an objective
Set a time limit

Get outside help

#lawyer #lawyer #dispute #timewasting

The power you have is in having a coffee - but how do you turn up ?

A follow up by having a coffee is a valuable thing . It is

✅ your time and their time
✅. It is an opportunity to collaborate
✅ it is an opportunity to learn or peovise information and help others

It can be all the above and move .

Are you intentional when you meet someone for a coffee ?

Just and learn from every meeting you go to or at least part with some knowledge to help others.

What was the one thing you learnt from a coffee meeting?

(Ps i try not to cross examine like the litigator I am ! )

#coffee #time #lawyer #dispute #esg

Because the fruit only arrives after the harvest .

Seeds of goodness delivered some wonderful humans in my life - so grateful x

@lhfontana @meganleo_dj @brittadmakeupandhair

#friends #weekendvibes #graitude

Diversity only works if there is inclusion and equity .

Celebrating 🎉 and including women and girls at all levels is a decision made from the top - the board of directors through the practice of good governance.

Please don’t forget equity with diversity as not all women have the same starting position.

What will you do as
an organisation,
as an employer
A director
An employee /manager

For the next 365 to help bring greater diversity , equity and inclusion ?

#dei #iwd #esg #governance #director

Stop 🛑 the Bulls**t

⭐️communicate with intention

⭐️communicate with authority

⭐️ communicate with all stakeholders )not just the ones you deem important)

It’s your reputation ! How do you want others to receive you ❓

The Power of Communication in Litigation—Before, During, and After the Case

Litigation doesn’t end when the court delivers its judgment. In fact, some of the most critical moments happen post-litigation, when businesses must navigate the aftermath—whether that’s managing stakeholders, reassessing strategy, or protecting their reputation.

Communication is key at every stage:

✅ During the dispute – Clarity in presenting your case and managing expectations.
✅ Post-litigation – Addressing stakeholders, ensuring business continuity, and adapting strategy where needed.

A legal win doesn’t always mean a business win if the messaging isn’t right. How you communicate outcomes—internally and externally—can impact trust, future contracts, and market position.

#Communication #legal #lawyer #litigation #dispute #court

Nerves when speaking - what you don’t see is the books I placed on the chair to give me more height !!! 😂🤫

#internationalspeaker #speaker #esg #lawyer #disputes @gunnercookellp

When you asked to join the Attorney General of India 🇮🇳 with over 1000 people in attendance to do a talk on ESG - !

The nerves start circulating and then servicing and to add to the nerves you discover that you’re too short even when you’re sitting on the chair for the camera and have to sit on books comfort!!! Not 😂

#internationalspeaker #speaker #lawyer #esg #disputes

Why Wearing Multiple Hats Makes You a Better Supplier

In business, we often look for specialists—people who are experts in a single field. But what if the best suppliers are those who bring a broader perspective?

As a lawyer, a Chartered Director, and a member of the SME Advisory Panel for Procurement at the UK Cabinet Office, I’ve seen firsthand how having multiple roles sharpens decision-making, risk assessment, and problem-solving. Each role gives me a different lens:

🔹 Legal expertise helps me anticipate risks before they become roadblocks.
🔹 Board experience ensures I think strategically, balancing short-term goals with long-term sustainability.
🔹 Procurement insights mean I understand both sides of the table—what businesses need and how suppliers can genuinely add value.

Suppliers who wear multiple hats bring depth, adaptability, and a broader understanding of their clients’ needs. They don’t just offer a service—they offer insight, strategy, and foresight.

Would you rather work with a supplier who knows just their industry, or one who understands yours too? Let’s discuss. 👇 #business-growth #strategy #lawyer #director #ned #author

Absolutely amazing members night @thenedlondon with @paulcbrunson around his new book Keep Love ❤️. Hosted by the gracious and endearing @africabrooke (thanks for sharing so much ) . I walked away counting the seconds to start reading the book. Paul had a way of using amazing communication to convey his message in a very calm and authentic manner . Thank you to the @thenedlondon for hosting us .

#nedlondon #writer #books #keeplove

Relaxation: The Hidden Business Strategy 🏝️

Too often, we celebrate the constant grind. Yet the most successful business leaders understand a crucial truth: strategic downtime fuels peak performance.

When we step away and recharge, our minds create space for innovation. Those moments of pause aren’t just pleasant—they’re profitable. They spark the creativity that drives breakthrough solutions and fresh perspectives.

Remember: Running at 100% constantly means you’re never truly operating at your best. Make relaxation a non-negotiable part of your business strategy.

Your future self (and your bottom line) will thank you.

#BusinessStrategy #Leadership #Wellbeing #ned #director #lawyer #ceo

💷🤑 Why does litigation cost so much? Why can’t lawyers just fix the fee?

⁉️These are questions I’m asked almost daily after 20+ years in global litigation and mediation. Let me share a unique perspective...

Have you ever played Snakes and Ladders? Well, I play it every day in court.
In litigation, just like the game, you roll the dice and move across the board. Sometimes you:

🪜 Hit a ladder and climb up rapidly
Uncover compelling evidence
Have breakthrough negotiations
Execute a successful cross-examination

🐍 Land on a snake and slide backwards
Face missing documentation
Lose negotiation leverage
Navigate challenging witness testimony
Or just being slapped with the unexpected and far fetched

The journey to resolution isn’t linear. One day you’re racing ahead, the next you’re regrouping and reassessing. This unpredictability makes fixed fees challenging - each case has its own unique path.

🥳Success often comes down to three key elements:

🌟 Persistence in pursuing the right outcome
🌟 Patience through the inevitable setbacks
🌟 Evidence to support your position

Remember: Just like in Snakes and Ladders, sometimes the quickest route isn’t available, and you need to take the longer path to reach your goal. That’s why litigation costs can mount - but it’s also why experienced lawyers and combined mediator and chartered director like myself are invaluable and unique in navigating this complex journey.

#LegalInsights #Litigation #LawCosts #Mediation #LegalStrategy #DisputeResolution #lawyer

Want more time for enjoyment

Want to more financial freedom

Want a better way than being tired to billable hours

Find out how gunnercooke can help you .

Dm me for a confidentional call 📞.

Food for thought - forn15 mins of your time you can change your life . Let me addres your fears - you take control of the next chapter .

#somethingfortheweekend.
#lawyers
#0wnboss

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We recently needed some urgent advice on a legal matter and with Rashmi we resolved the issue on the phone within minutes, without needing to go any further. I don’t think anyone could have done better.

Ms M S Sarai

ESG: Master Board Governance and
Reduce Risk

Helped directors and board members transform their organisations.

Fostered "future thinking" in all the businesses she works with.

Served on several boards where she's helped develop strategy and mentor board members.

Is your business ready to evolve?

Engage Rashmi to inspire your audience at your next event

Just some of the companies Rashmi has worked with

Rashmi writes speeches, blogs, books and a weekly business column in the Yorkshire Post.

Author, columnist, storyteller.

Rashmi on Insta

Send Rashmi a Message

RASHMI DUBÉ

Bringing diversity, strategy and governance to your organisation.

ESG: Master Board Governance and Reduce Risk

Helped directors and board members transform their organisations.

Fostered "future thinking" in all the businesses she works with.

Served on several boards where she's helped develop strategy and mentor board members.

Is your business ready to evolve?

Engage Rashmi to inspire your audience at your next event

Just some of the companies Rashmi has worked with

Rashmi writes speeches, blogs, books and a weekly business column in the Yorkshire Post.

Author, columnist, storyteller.

Rashmi on Insta

​

Send Rashmi a Message

RASHMI DUBÉ

Bringing diversity, strategy and governance to your organisation.

ESG: Master Board Governance and
Reduce Risk