Nada Ismail is a seasoned legal executive and business advisor with over 25 years of distinguished experience in corporate law, governance, and compliance. Renowned for her business-oriented solutions and transformative leadership, she serves as a trusted advisor to C-Suite teams on high-stakes regulatory and ethical matters.

Professional Experience and Expertise

• NuStar Energy L.P.: Served as Executive Director and Managing Counsel, overseeing enterprise risk management and recovering over $100 million in legal disputes.

• Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP: Developed foundational expertise in commercial litigation and proactive risk mitigation at this Am Law 100 firm.

• Compliance Leadership: Architect of robust programs in anti-corruption, OFAC regulations, and federal grants; recipient of the Bright Star and Star Performer Awards.

• Multinational Scope: Extensive international advisory experience across Canada, Mexico, the Netherlands, England, and the Caribbean.

Education and Credentials

• JD: University of Texas School of Law

• MA in Public Policy: University of Chicago

• Executive MBA: Rice University

• Certifications: Certified Compliance & Ethics Professional (CCEP), Global Sanctions Specialist (CGSS), and Leadership Professional in Ethics & Compliance (LPEC).

Community Leadership

• Children’s Welfare: Serves as President of the Board of Trustees for Ransomed Life, Inc., focused on children's welfare.

• Animal Welfare: Volunteers with animal welfare organizations such as Charming Pets Rescue and the Texas Wolfdog Project & Shelter.

Learn more and connect with Nada on LinkedIn.

• Position: Member

• Pronouns: she/her/hers

• Location: San Antonio, Texas

• RAICES Tenure:  2026–Present