Women In Tech - Dominique Janse Van Rensburg

Dominique is a qualified attorney, bringing almost 15 years of comprehensive legal experience in the field of commercial law. Throughout her career, she has worked extensively with in-house legal teams, providing strategic guidance on optimizing and improving legal processes. Her primary focus has been on contract lifecycle management (CLM), where she has successfully streamlined operations to enhance efficiency and drive better outcomes.

Dominique’s expertise is not only grounded in her legal knowledge but also in her deep understanding of process management and project management. Over the years, she has played a pivotal role in the design and execution of several CLM implementations, guiding clients through the complexities of integrating advanced legal technologies into their workflows. Her ability to blend legal acumen with process optimization has made her an invaluable asset in driving successful rollouts, ensuring that organizations can leverage these solutions to meet their broader business objectives.

How did you get into this industry?

My journey into the tech industry was sparked by a lifelong fascination with the intersection of law and technology—particularly how these fields converge to drive practical business solutions. Initially, I followed a traditional legal path, specializing in commercial law and intellectual property in practice. Along the way, I would occasionally experiment with tech tools to optimize my own work and was fascinated by the work being done by tech start-ups that I assisted with the IP protection, but I never imagined that those small innovations would lead to a larger shift in my career.

In 2018, I was approached by a Legal Tech company to collaborate on the development of their in-house Contract Management System. I leapt at the opportunity, even though it felt like a "trial by fire" since my tech knowledge was limited to say the least. With no formal experience in tech development, I threw myself into learning, compiling detailed notes, and conducting endless research—so much so that my husband joked I looked like an overeager first-year university student all over again!

That experience was a turning point. Not only did I gain a deeper appreciation for the nuances of legal tech development, but I also saw firsthand the transformative potential of legal technology. From improving contract drafting and lifecycle management to unlocking the power of data analysis for smarter business decision-making, the impact was undeniable. It confirmed what I had long believed: the fusion of law and technology is a game-changer for businesses everywhere.

What were some of the pivotal moments in your career that helped you get to where you are today?

Several key moments stand out in my career, each rooted in collaboration, adaptability, and a willingness to embrace new challenges.

One pivotal moment was early in my career when I realized the importance of combining my legal expertise with technology to enhance efficiency. Even as I focused on commercial law and intellectual property, I would experiment with tech tools to optimize my deliverables. This sparked my curiosity about how technology could amplify the impact of traditional legal work.

Another defining moment came in 2018, when I was invited to work with a Legal Tech company on developing their Contract Management System. It was an entirely new domain for me, requiring a steep learning curve. While I came in with no technical background, I leaned heavily on collaboration—with developers, product managers, and legal professionals—to bridge the gap between technology and law. That experience taught me that innovation thrives when diverse expertise comes together with a shared vision.

Beyond the technical skills I gained, these collaborations instilled a deep appreciation for the value of listening and learning from others. Whether it was brainstorming solutions, refining workflows, or troubleshooting challenges, the synergy of working as a team transformed each obstacle into a stepping stone.

Finally, a subtle but significant moment came when I started seeing the tangible impact of legal technology—how smarter data analysis could inform better decision-making and how streamlined systems could empower legal teams to focus on higher-value work. Tech is here, not to replace individuals, but to allow them to work smarter rather than harder. Those "aha" moments solidified my belief in the potential of technology as a catalyst for change in the legal and business landscape.

Each of these milestones reinforced a central lesson for me: growth happens when we step outside our comfort zones, collaborate with others, and embrace opportunities to learn and adapt.

Have you ever noticed a time in your career where your gender proved to differentiate you?

Early in my career, I certainly noticed that some members of the older generation of male attorneys and advocates underestimated me. There were times when I felt they assumed I was a "dumb blonde," as they might have put it. While those moments were frustrating, I quickly learned to reframe them as opportunities rather than obstacles. With guidance from supportive mentors—many of whom were also men—I discovered how to turn these misconceptions to my advantage, especially in litigation and negotiation. Underestimation can be a powerful tool when wielded with strategy and confidence.

What stands out even more, however, is how different my experience has been since transitioning to the legal technology space. Here, I’ve found a genuinely inclusive environment where I’ve not only been free of gender-based bias but have also been actively supported and mentored by incredible women in senior management and executive positions.

One of the most refreshing aspects of this industry has been the absence of prejudice or preference based on gender, race, or age. The legal tech world thrives on innovation, and it’s been my experience that this focus naturally cultivates a culture of meritocracy and collaboration. It’s empowering to know that your ideas, skills, and contributions are what matter most.

This shift has been a breath of fresh air and a testament to the progress we’re seeing in workplaces that value diversity and inclusion. While my early experiences taught me resilience and adaptability, my time in the tech space has reinforced my belief in the importance of creating environments where everyone can thrive without fear of bias or limitation.

What is your advice for someone working in a predominantly male workplace?

Working in a predominantly male workplace can present unique challenges, but it also offers valuable opportunities to grow and make a meaningful impact. Here are some lessons I’ve learned from my own journey:

1. Don’t Underestimate Yourself—and Don’t Let Others Do It Either
2. Early in my career, I encountered moments when others underestimated me, but I learned to turn those situations into opportunities. If someone assumes you’re not capable, use it to your advantage by exceeding expectations. Let your skills and results do the talking—it’s often the best way to change perceptions.
3. Find Allies and Mentors
4. Mentorship is invaluable, and it’s important to seek out allies who believe in your potential. These can be men or women who are willing to offer guidance, advocate for you, and open doors to new opportunities. A good mentor can help you navigate challenges and build confidence.
5. Lead with Confidence and Authenticity
6. It’s tempting to try to fit into the existing culture, but you don’t have to change who you are to succeed. Bring your unique perspective to the table and own your expertise. Confidence, combined with authenticity, often earns respect more effectively than trying to conform.
7. Pick Your Battles
8. Not every slight or misstep is worth addressing, but when something crosses a line, don’t hesitate to speak up. Set boundaries and assert your position firmly yet professionally. Choose the moments where your voice can create the most impact.
9. Focus on Building a Supportive Network
10. Look for peers and colleagues who share your values and can offer encouragement. A strong network is a powerful resource for navigating challenges, sharing insights, and celebrating successes.
11. Create a Legacy of Inclusion
12. Finally, use your position and experience to make the workplace more inclusive for others. Whether it’s mentoring a junior colleague or advocating for better policies, you can play an active role in shaping a more equitable work environment.

Above all, remember that you belong, and your contributions are valuable. By staying true to yourself, building connections, and focusing on your goals, you can thrive and inspire others to do the same.

What do you think companies could do to motivate more women to pursue careers in technology?

Companies can inspire more women to pursue technology careers by taking intentional steps to break down barriers and foster inclusivity. Partnering with schools and showcasing female role models can spark early interest and challenge stereotypes. Offering internships, apprenticeships, and clear career pathways makes the field more accessible, while supportive workplace cultures help women thrive. Mentorship and sponsorship programs connect women with leaders who can guide and advocate for their growth. Flexible policies, such as parental leave and childcare support, ensure work-life balance. I am happy to say I believe Consilio is ahead of the curve on all these points!

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