“Talent has no gender” – Saima Kamila Khan

woman @ work

Saima Kamila Khan has over 20 years of diverse legal experience across sectors such as oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, banking and telecommunications. Before joining Jazz in 2018 as a Chief Legal Officer, she served as General Counsel, Company Secretary and Head of Corporate Communications and Public Affairs at ICI Pakistan Limited, where she expertly integrated legal, governance and communications functions.

Kamila holds an LLB from the University of Punjab and an LLM from the University of Pennsylvania, USA. She has also served on the boards of the Pakistan Institute of Corporate Governance (PICG) and Al Meezan Investment Management Ltd.

Known for her innovative approach, Kamila combines legal expertise with strategic leadership in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI). She is a passionate advocate for women’s empowerment. Through mentorship, she inspires women within Jazz and beyond, helping them overcome barriers and achieve their potential.

You! Tell us about your early days?

Samia Kamila Khan: I started as a designer and small business owner, running my own venture long before a legal path was even in sight. In fact, my father enrolled me in the LLB programme. At the time, I was also a first-time mother to a one-year-old. Completing my degree during that phase remains one of the most defining accomplishments of my life.

My first formal legal role was as an intern at a law firm, where I immersed myself in courtrooms, drafting and client work. That exposure quickly turned into a full-time position. I also worked as a teaching assistant at a law school in Lahore, which deepened my academic grounding and sharpened my thinking. Once I entered mainstream practice, there was no looking back. Those early years taught me that law has the greatest impact when it aligns with business realities.

You! What are your current areas of focus?

SKK: Today, as Chief Legal Officer and a member of the Executive Team, I lead the entire legal and governance framework of the company. My role goes far beyond interpreting the law - it is about enabling growth with integrity. I work closely with the Board, our Chief Executive Officer and business leaders to ensure that every bold ambition is supported by strong governance, responsible risk management and regulatory foresight.

My current focus is helping my organisation evolve into a platform-led digital ServiceCo while ensuring we grow responsibly. As we expand across telecom, fintech, cloud and digital services, I work to build strong legal and regulatory foundations that allow innovation to move forward with confidence.

You! What do you like most about your work?

SKK: The sense of impact. The decisions we make don’t just stay on paper - they shape how millions of people connect, transact and participate in the digital economy. Being part of something that large and meaningful is incredibly fulfilling.

You! What’s the greatest risk you’ve taken as a professional?

SKK: One of the greatest risks I’ve taken was supporting a decision that could have impacted my own job - yet it was the right thing to do for the organisation and the people around me.

Titles and positions can change, but your values stay with you. Choosing integrity over comfort isn’t easy but it brings a quiet confidence and self-respect that no designation can replace.

You! What has been your most career-defining moment that you are proud of?

SKK: Honestly, I don’t think a career is defined by one dramatic moment. In reality, it’s shaped by a series of choices, challenges and turning points - some big, some quiet – that gradually change you.

You! As a woman in a senior position, what kinds of challenges have you encountered?

SKK: The biggest challenge isn’t capability - its perception. Women are often still expected to adjust, compromise or prove themselves more, even at senior levels. In many male-dominated spaces, authority is instinctively associated with men. A strong, assertive woman can make people uncomfortable - but that discomfort is often the first sign of progress.

You! Does your organisation promote gender equality?

SKK: Yes, it truly promotes gender equality. It is embedded in our policies, leadership pathways and talent development programmes, with a real focus on representation and accountability.

More importantly, it goes beyond policy. The culture encourages inclusion in everyday decisions and behaviours - and that is what makes the difference.

You! Is your organisation working on exclusive programmes for women?

SKK: Yes. Inclusion is embedded in both our workplace and our broader digital mission. We actively promote digital access for women across Pakistan while internally building strong pathways for growth through mentorship and executive programmes such as ‘Empower with LUMS’. We also recognise real-life challenges. With six months of paid maternity leave, phased return options, returnship programmes, childcare support and flexible work arrangements, we focus on making career continuity practical. Talent has no gender - and opportunity should not either.

You! What do you think are some professional obstacles women in Pakistan face?

SKK: Women in Pakistan still face structural and societal barriers. In the workplace, unconscious bias, limited mentorship and fewer visible female role models can slow their progression. Balancing career and family responsibilities - often without adequate support - remains a real challenge.

You! What is the most important advice you can give to women?

SKK: Navigate the world with confidence and mindfulness. Keep learning, stay curious and invest in skills that keep you relevant. Seek mentors who both challenge and support you and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Advocate for yourself, trust your voice and be patient with your journey.

You! Could you name a woman who’s inspired you the most?

SKK: My greatest inspiration has been my paternal grandmother - my Dadi. In an era when women were expected to remain within defined boundaries, she carried herself with dignity, strength and defiance. She didn’t speak loudly about change - she lived it. From her, I learned that you can be gentle yet strong, traditional yet progressive and that true influence often comes from character, not noise.

You! Is the general mindset of our society changing with regard to working women?

SKK: The needle has moved - support for women’s ambitions is growing and more pathways are opening.

You! What does a typical day look like for you?

SKK: It feels like being on a roller coaster - fast, unpredictable and constantly evolving - and I genuinely love it. No two days are the same. From strategic discussions and complex decisions to problem-solving in real time, the pace keeps me energised.

You! What is your biggest indulgence at home?

SKK: A cup of green tea with a piece of dark chocolate, some music in the background and either a good book or a Netflix show.

You! What is your most treasured possession?

SKK: The bond I share with my children, family and close friends. Their love, honesty and support have been my anchor through every high and low.

You! What did you like to read when you were a little girl?

SKK: As a little girl, I loved Enid Blyton’s adventures. Later, I gravitated toward Jane Austen and her sharp, timeless characters. And of course, there were plenty of Archie comics in between.

You! How do you balance family life and work?

SKK: Balance has never been perfect - it’s always been a juggle. I’ve learned that it’s less about perfect balance and more about being present where you are. It’s easier now that my children are grown, but at every stage, I’ve simply done my best to give my full attention to what mattered most in that moment.