In commemoration of Black History Month, we spoke with Janine Slade about what drew her to Covington and how the legal industry can better address the needs of incoming Black lawyers.
Janine Slade is a Special Counsel in the Washington office. Drawing upon her experience at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Janine advises clients on the U.S. national security review process administered by the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) and related reviews conducted by the interagency working group known as “Team Telecom.”
Janine served in a number of roles during her nearly 10-year tenure at DHS, including as Deputy Director, Foreign Investment Risk Management, and as an Attorney Advisor in the Office of the General Counsel. She advised Department leadership and component offices on matters relating to CFIUS and Team Telecom, assisted with compliance oversight of CFIUS national security agreements, and negotiated national security risk mitigation measures with corporate counsel for companies under review and investigation by CFIUS and Team Telecom. She also provided technical assistance to congressional staff and the CFIUS chair on Foreign Investment Risk Reduction & Modernization Act (FIRRMA) statutory reform and accompanying regulatory reform efforts.
What was it about Covington that drew you to the firm?
During my government service I had the opportunity to work with several firms that regularly represent clients appearing before the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States and Team Telecom. Among that group, Covington's reputation for professionalism, forthrightness, and problem solving is unmatched. I was excited to work with such a highly regarded group of attorneys.
How has your cultural background influenced your approach to work as a lawyer, either with your commercial or pro bono clients?
Because of my experience of not always feeling heard or "seen" I make an effort to ensure that my clients know that I am listening to and understand their concerns and opinions. I think this is something that my clients appreciate.
How can the legal industry better address the needs of incoming Black lawyers?
I think the industry can do a better job of listening to diverse members within the field and acting in meaningful and visible ways on the input received. The industry should also be intentional about ensuring that demonstrating competency in leading and working in diverse teams is a skillset that is valued and required for advancement.
How are you building community with Covington colleagues during this period of "virtual work"? Any tips or learnings to share?
I am making an effort to prioritize virtual happy hours and meetings not related to work to connect with colleagues. We trade recommendations for TV shows, movies, books and podcasts as a way to connect.
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