Elizabeth Roman Jones is a Compliance Director at Cambridge International Systems, LLC. Her career path had not been a straight line. She has worked in different law firms and served as an in-house counsel for different companies. She calls herself “a compliance professional with a burning passion for regulatory compliance.”
Elizabeth loves to travel, hike, watch college footballs and spend time with my family.
Elizabeth is a member of the Association of Corporate Counsel, National Capital Region and the DC Bar Association.
When did you join the WBA?
I joined the WBA in January 2015.
What committees/forums have you been involved in?
I have been a WBA Board Member on two occasions, led the Stars of the Bar event, and co-chaired the Amicus Committee and the Immigration Forum. Currently, I am the co-chair of the In-House Counsel Forum.
Why did you join the Women’s Bar Association?
I wanted to find a place where I could be with other like-minded people. I grew up in a household full of women. I believe in the super power of the sisterhood. I believe in the WBA’s mission and the advancements it has made in our community for women’s rights since its creation more than 100 years ago.
What benefits do you get from being a part of the WBA and why do you think others should join?
Since I joined the WBA my network circle has expanded. I have long-lasting friendships that I would not have been able to make anywhere else. I have learned soft skills that have helped me throughout my professional career. The WBA is a great place to learn from others. I have been mentored and I have mentored others. The best thing about the WBA is that when you join, you will have immediate access to male and female members that want to promote your work and help you succeed.
How has being a parent enhanced your career?
My daughters have taught me how to appreciate every second of my life. After COVID, I have learned to enjoy all the time I spend with them and to plan as much as I can to maximize my time. Planning ahead of time is an important skill that has helped me in my job. In my role, I am constantly thinking on my feet. The more I plan ahead, the more time I can free up in my schedule to manage any impromptu problem that can happen during the workday.
Do you have a mentor/hero?
I have a mentor/hero that has impacted not only my profession but also my personal life. He has brought perspective into our conversations when I needed to make important decisions. He had also presented me with career advancements opportunities and had vouched for my potential on many occasions. Most importantly he is a vivid example of work-life balance and even asks for the family/health/life every so often during our conversations. Having a mentor/sponsor in your life is crucial for learning about the profession and to seek advice without been judged.
What words of advice do you have for women new to the profession?
Try to attend in-person events to truly know people, be present during the conversation you have with them and follow up with an email/text via LinkedIn. What is important is not the number of connections/acquaintances you have but the relationships you foster with them.
What is the best advice you have received?
A long time ago I read an article about Jeff Bezos and the importance of being patient. He mentioned that most people are impatient and gave up after waiting one to two years. Jeff Bezos added he has learned to wait five to seven years for an idea to come into fruition because some things won’t pay off right away. His advice was to “Focus on the long term and you’ll have better results. If we think long term, we can accomplish things that we couldn’t otherwise accomplish.” His advice struck me since I read about it and has been one of my guiding principles ever since.