Kimberly Smith and Susan Light Featured in Chicago and New York Business Journals' Women of Influence

Corporate Department Global Chair and Partner Kimberly T. Smith and Broker-Dealer Regulation Co-Chair and Partner Susan Light were recently featured in the Chicago and New York Business Journals' Women of Influence, following their inclusion in the publications' 2025 Women of Influence lists. Initially recognized for their professional excellence, leadership and commitment to the community, the Q&As spotlight the clarity of their leadership and the values that underpin their client service and mentorship.

Kimberly, who leads a global team of corporate attorneys advising across mergers and acquisitions/private equity, capital markets, public finance and health care, underscored a pragmatic, results-driven approach to transactions that centers on client outcomes. "Our mandate is straightforward: to close strategic deals that deliver the best possible terms to our clients and help them grow their businesses," she said, emphasizing the importance of anticipating challenges and offering "creative solutions grounded in real-time market terms and deal flow."

In describing how she supports high-performing teams, Kimberly noted that "mentoring is truly embedded in Katten's culture," and that seemingly "small moments of support can make a big difference" in helping emerging attorneys set goals, navigate challenges and build confidence. On advancing to leadership, she advised women to "lead with confidence and authenticity," becoming authorities in their fields while investing in relationships that "open doors and help you grow as a leader."

Kimberly also shared insight on the firm's approach to client service. "We invest deeply in our clients by getting to know them personally and immersing ourselves in their business. That perspective helps us understand their current needs, anticipate what's next and stay closely aligned with their goals," she said.

Sue, a former senior regulatory officer at both the New York Stock Exchange and FINRA, leverages decades of hands-on regulatory experience to guide broker-dealers, investment banks and other financial services clients through investigations and evolving rules with an eye toward safeguarding their businesses. "We are successful when we understand our clients' business, help them avoid or minimize regulatory scrutiny, and establish new business," she said.

Expanding on her thoughts of helping drive successful outcomes for clients, Sue shared she's learned that "diverse teams develop the best product for our clients. I can be a great lawyer, but I can be an even greater lawyer with my Katten colleagues by my side, collaborating to deliver strategic, end-to-end legal solutions tailored to produce the best results for our clients."

In mentoring junior attorneys, Sue grounds her approach in accountability and purpose, often reminding junior attorneys, "You are the master of your own destiny." Sue learned that mentorship is about more than giving good advice; it's about investing in someone's potential and helping them navigate challenges they may face. Her guidance to women for leadership positions is to speak up, seek out and volunteer for important assignments, cultivate key relationships, and provide top-quality work, in addition to developing interpersonal skills such as empathy and the ability to listen and instill confidence.

"2025 Women of Influence honorees: Kimberly Smith," Chicago Business Journal, December 15, 2025

"2025 Women of Influence honorees: Susan Light," New York Business Journal, December 15, 2025