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Fatima Shariff

Alberta Electric System Operator, Calgary

Call: 2007

Statement

I am seeking election as a Bencher of the Law Society of Alberta because I believe I would bring principled leadership, sound governance, independent judgment and an unwavering commitment to the public interest. With nearly 20 years of experience as a lawyer, I offer a perspective shaped by regulatory leadership, corporate and commercial practice, governance and community service. My career has reinforced my belief that strong institutions depend on accountability, transparency, fairness and public confidence.

As former Associate General Counsel at the Alberta Securities Commission, and in my current role as Legal Manager at the Alberta Electric System Operator, I have worked extensively within complex regulatory frameworks, advising on legislation and policy development, regulatory compliance and strategic decision-making. These roles have strengthened my understanding of regulatory independence, procedural fairness and the importance of exercising sound judgment within a statutory mandate. My responsibilities require critical thinking, diplomacy and collaboration across multidisciplinary teams, while providing strategic advice, mentoring legal professionals and fostering constructive solutions.

Governance has also been a central focus of my professional and volunteer commitments. I hold the Certified In-House Counsel – Canada (CIC.C) designation from the Rotman School of Management and serve on the board of Generations Calgary, a community-based not-for-profit long-term care campus. Together with my broader professional experience, these roles have strengthened my understanding of fiduciary responsibility, strategic oversight, organizational risk and effective board decision-making. They have also reinforced the importance of approaching governance decisions with an open mind, considering differing perspectives and remaining focused on the organization’s mandate and responsibilities.

Throughout my career and community involvement, I have sought to lead with integrity, empathy, curiosity and respect. I value active listening, constructive dialogue and the thoughtful consideration of different viewpoints. I believe effective governance requires both the courage to make difficult decisions and the humility to remain open to new perspectives, particularly when navigating complex issues.

I would welcome the opportunity to bring my regulatory experience, governance expertise, collaborative leadership and balanced judgment to the Bencher table.