Raquel daFonseca is Executive Vice President, Global Ethics & Compliance Officer and Deputy General Counsel for Daniel J. Edelman Holdings, Inc. reporting to the General Counsel. She leads the compliance and internal audit functions for one of the world’s largest privately held public relations and strategic communications firms. She provides strategic counsel on regulatory matters, business compliance policies, portfolio management, ethics, mergers & acquisitions, and commercial transactions.

Ms. daFonseca is a seasoned legal executive with over two decades of experience advising global enterprises on compliance, ethics, corporate governance, commercial law, and M&A transactions. With a career spanning both private and Fortune 10 companies, she has demonstrated expertise in regulatory compliance, litigation strategy, employment law, strategic business planning, and has successfully led legal teams, navigated complex corporate integrations, and shaped ethical business frameworks. A trusted executive advisor, Ms. daFonseca is recognized for her strategic leadership, ability to mitigate enterprise risk, and commitment to fostering a culture of integrity and compliance. She has worked with and for multinational corporations in various sectors including professional services, industrial, energy, and transportation.

Ms. daFonseca holds a Juris Doctor from the University of Michigan Law School and a Bachelor of Arts degree from Brown University. She is licensed to practice in Illinois. She is a member of the board of directors of The Friendship Center, a local not-for-profit food pantry and serves as the Secretary for Women’s Excellence Network (WEN).