Justine Abdelshahid

Legal Contracts Manager (Commercial and Technology) | Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Professional Overview

Justine Abdelshahid is an experienced legal professional with a strong background in commercial and technology contract management. As the Legal Contracts Manager at Definity, she is responsible for overseeing the negotiation, drafting, and execution of complex commercial agreements, with a focus on driving business growth and mitigating risk.

Experience Summary

Current Role

Legal Contracts Manager (Commercial and Technology), Definity (2024-10-01 to Present)

Manages the end-to-end contract lifecycle for a diverse portfolio of commercial and technology agreements, including SaaS contracts, vendor partnerships, and licensing deals

Provides strategic legal counsel to cross-functional teams, advising on contract terms, risk assessment, and negotiation strategies

Leads the development and implementation of standardized contract templates and playbooks to streamline the contracting process

Collaborates with the legal and business teams to identify and address contractual risks, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and corporate policies

Career Progression

In-house Contracts Counsel and Legal Advisor, Matteo Gilfillan & Associates Inc. (2023-11-01 to 2024-05-01)

Drafted and reviewed a wide range of commercial contracts, including service agreements, NDAs, and procurement contracts

Advised cross-functional teams on contractual matters and provided legal support for various business initiatives

Lawyer, Freelance (2023-03-01 to 2024-10-01)

Offered specialized legal services to small and medium-sized businesses, with a focus on contract drafting, review, and negotiation

Associate Lawyer, PCK Intellectual Property (2022-05-01 to 2023-02-01)

Provided legal support for clients in the technology and innovation sector, with a focus on intellectual property protection and commercialization

Articling Student, PCK Intellectual Property (2021-05-01 to 2022-05-01)

Gained experience in a wide range of legal practice areas, including corporate law, intellectual property, and commercial transactions

Legal Intern - Corporate Law, Anton M. Katz, Barrister & Solicitor (2020-09-01 to 2021-02-01)

Assisted with research, document preparation, and client communication in a corporate law practice

Academic Background

Juris Doctor (JD), University of Toronto Faculty of Law (2018-2021)

Graduated with distinction

Recipient of the Dean's List Award for academic excellence

Areas of Expertise

Commercial and technology contract negotiation and drafting

Contract risk assessment and mitigation

Intellectual property protection and commercialization

Regulatory compliance and corporate governance

Strategic legal advisory for cross-functional teams

Professional Impact

Played a key role in the successful negotiation and execution of several high-value SaaS and vendor partnership agreements at Definity, contributing to the company's revenue growth and market expansion

Developed and implemented a comprehensive contract management system at Matteo Gilfillan & Associates, streamlining the contracting process and improving overall operational efficiency

Provided legal expertise and support to small and medium-sized businesses, helping them navigate complex commercial and regulatory landscapes

Conclusion

With her exceptional legal acumen, strategic mindset, and strong cross-functional collaboration skills, Justine Abdelshahid is poised to continue making a meaningful impact in the legal and business communities. Her commitment to delivering innovative solutions and driving organizational success makes her a valuable asset in any legal or commercial environment.