“I wish I had known that having a true sponsor — someone who advocates for you in promotion discussions and introduces you to key clients — is critical to growth. That realization shapes how I mentor and sponsor others today.”
Lena Surilov’s transition from corporate law into specialty finance highlights the power of curiosity, technical discipline and proactive mentorship. Beginning her career on the corporate side, she quickly realized that her passion lay beyond traditional corporate advisory. Eager to understand the financing mechanics driving business growth, she leveraged her J.D./M.B.A. background to transition into commercial finance during the turbulent post-2008 landscape. That critical shift introduced her to asset-based lending, where complex problem-solving directly impacts company survival and expansion.
Throughout her career, Surilov has navigated key industry shifts by building expertise in debt financing transactions. As a partner at Otterbourg P.C., she counsels major financial institutions, commercial lenders and syndicates on structuring, negotiating and documenting complex domestic and cross-border deals. Her comprehensive practice spans the full loan life cycle — from initial revolving credit facilities and term loans to DIP financing and bankruptcy exit credit structures — particularly within the retail and manufacturing sectors.
What distinguishes Surilov is her approach to dealmaking as a trusted business adviser rather than simply a legal counselor. Recognizing that technical knowledge must be paired with commercial awareness, she focuses on understanding client operations and ensuring strategic alignment.
Having benefited from transformational career sponsors who advocated for her advancement, Surilov actively pays that investment forward. She prioritizes sponsoring rising women in finance and law, ensuring they receive high- visibility deal exposure, client introductions and executive advocacy. By helping junior professionals navigate market shifts and build commercial instincts, she helps usher the next generation into senior decision-making roles. Through her dual focus on transaction execution and talent cultivation, Surilov continues to strengthen the future of commercial finance.
