Mr Alejandro Mesa > Baker McKenzie S.A.S. > BOGOTÁ, D.C, Colombia > Lawyer Profile

The energy and natural resources team at Baker McKenzie S.A.S. strikes the right note with sources due to its ‘very good technical knowledge’ which it applies ‘in a practical way to help the business’. The group, which houses distinct offerings in each of the power, mining, and hydrocarbon areas, also stands out for its extensive cross-border firepower. Managing partner Alejandro Mesa steers the overarching energy, mining and infrastructure department and has been advising Engie on local regulatory and contractual matters. Other key contacts include intermediate associate Laura Torres who has a focus on energy and public law. However, former senior associate Nicolás Arboleda left to establish his own practice in March 2023; while fellow senior (and leader of the power sub-practice), Mariana Villegas, moved to energy transition think-tank Polen Transiciones Justas the following month.

The ‘very diligent and proactive’ team at Baker McKenzie S.A.S. stands out for its ability to plug into the wider international firm’s 250-lawyer-strong global environmental practice. The team’s international capability is reflected in its diverse client roster, which features major multinational corporations, such as Schlumberger and Engie, alongside high-profile domestic names, such as Ecopetrol and the National Mining Agency. Senior associate Camila Jiménez is the leader of the environmental sub-practice, which sits within the larger energy, mining, and infrastructure department. The group also draws on energy specialist Alejandro Mesa and associate Laura Torres, who focuses on energy and environmental law.

Over the past year, Baker McKenzie S.A.S. secured key roles in a string of projects, with a focus on the road, power and airport sectors. Particularly recognised for its record in representing lenders, the group also frequently acts for project sponsors, construction companies, investors and government entities. Project finance specialist Alejandro Mesa is noted for his ‘strong experience and commercial instinct’; he co-heads the department together with recently promoted (July 2023) partner María Montejo, who specialises in public procurement and infrastructure. Former department co-head Carolina Duque left to establish her own firm in January 2023.

Noted for its ‘excellent communication and availability’, the team at Baker McKenzie S.A.S. brings to bear a strong record in real estate transactions. With experience across the full industry life cycle, from permitting issues through to project structuring and corporate matters, the team is particularly noted for its ability to leverage its international platform in cross-border work. Energy and project finance specialist Alejandro Mesa steers the department with strong support from Lucía Murgueytio who was promoted to senior associated in July 2023 and specialises in urban and real estate transactions.