In an exciting announcement, Binance, the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange, declared the promotion of Eleanor Hughes to the position of General Counsel. An industry leader, Binance recognizes the immense expertise and drive Hughes brings to the table, boosting their continuous commitment to ethical global development within the evolving Web3 industry. Hughes will now guide Binance’s legal affairs on a global scale, working hand in hand with a competent team of 85 legal specialists.
Hughes’ Ascension to the Helm of Binance’s Legal Affairs
During her nearly two years at Binance, Hughes has proven herself an invaluable part of the legal team. She has successfully filled the shoes of a trusted legal advisor to Binance’s Founder and CEO, Changpeng Zhao, also known as CZ, along with the wider Binance team. Now, as the General Counsel, she is perfectly positioned to spearhead the company’s future legal strategies, leveraging her deep knowledge of the industry, robust legal experience, unwavering integrity, and exceptional work ethic.
CZ, appreciating Hughes’s appointment, highlighted how she had grown to become an indispensable part of the Binance family. “Hughes’s prowess, backed by her industry understanding and commitment to the job, makes her the perfect fit for the role. With her leading our legal team, I am optimistic that our mission to protect users and manage risks on our platform will continue to prosper,” said CZ.
Navigating a Transformative Period in the Digital Asset Industry
For Hughes, the digital asset space is currently undergoing a significant transformation. With rapidly increasing mainstream acceptance, the industry is poised to grow into a more mature and regulated sector. Hughes is enthusiastic about steering the accomplished legal team at Binance during such a critical period.
In her statement, she said, “Together with regulators, Binance has the responsibility as an industry leader to ensure consumers are protected while leaving room for technology to keep expanding and innovating. Our team will engage and collaborate closely with regulators around the globe to achieve this vision.”
Hughes’s perspective underscores her commitment to a proactive engagement approach with regulators and the broader global community. This resonates perfectly with Binance’s long-term vision and will certainly aid the company’s efforts to foster a more open and compliant global digital asset environment.
Hughes’s Legal Journey and Achievements
Eleanor Hughes joined the Binance Legal team in November 2021. Her incredible work ethic and competency led to a subsequent promotion to Head of Legal for the Asia-Pacific (APAC) and Middle East and North Africa (MENA) regions. As a leader, she managed an experienced team of lawyers who specialized in various fields, including regulatory affairs, M&A, commercial law, and litigation.
Hughes was a critical player in obtaining virtual asset service provider licenses and registrations for Binance in multiple jurisdictions, notably Bahrain, Dubai, and New Zealand. Her accomplishments during her tenure are a testament to her capabilities and strategic thinking, making her the ideal choice for the role of General Counsel.
Prior to her stint at Binance, Hughes had an illustrious 15-year legal career, both in private practice and in-house roles. She is a First Class Honors graduate from the prestigious University of Cambridge. Over ten years of her career were spent with top-tier US law firms, such as Skadden, Arps, Slate, and Meagher & Flom LLP and Affiliates. Here, she gained extensive experience in dealing with litigation and contentious matters.
Conclusion
With Hughes now at the helm of Binance’s legal affairs, the digital asset industry can expect a progressive and efficient approach to regulatory compliance. As the cryptocurrency space evolves, Binance is ensuring it is equipped with a competent team to navigate the changes effectively, thereby maintaining its position as a global leader in the industry.
