Team size: Five

Could you share an example of a time when you came up with an innovation that improved how your legal team works and did not come at a large expense?

The innovation that has revolutionised my team and impacted the company in terms of legal service is the implementation of the digital signature through a platform that certifies with a hash, proof of preservation and time stamp through a certification service provider. The interested party signs by stamping the document and thus agreeing with the content of the document. The above, given that Mexican legislation contemplates its viability, lawyers commonly prefer the handwritten signature on the document, but Mexico is migrating to the digital world in the legal field. With the digital signature, multiple revisions of the document are avoided in addition to streamlining the company’s operations.

Can you foresee any key developments to the way general counsel work over the next five years?

I believe that general counsel in Mexico must be in constant training and evolution, our key role is to protect companies through prevention and when faced with a risk we must mitigate or eliminate it. Today, as a result of globalisation and the digital world, we have access to multiple forms of training. In Mexico, our legal system undergoes continuous development and improvement. In the digital world, such as in labour-related matters, we are witnessing more hearings being conducted via video conferences. Our responsibility is to adapt to this evolution of society and its requirements and remain proactive stance within the legal domain. Naturally, we must also consider the company’s needs, always bearing in mind its business aspect.

What measures has your company taken to embed sustainability practices into its core business operations, and how does the role of the general counsel contribute to driving and ensuring sustainable practices within the company?

The main sustainability practice that the company implements is to take care of the rights and benefits of its employees. We comply with one hundred percent of the rights established in Mexico by the Federal Labor Law and other labour regulations, while also seeking additional benefits for employees to improve their quality of life. Given these efforts we have employees who are happy to work for us which allows the company to maintain a stable workforce.

The role of the corporate lawyer is essential when we analyse it from two perspectives, first because they are the one who must ensure compliance with all legal regulations. Secondly, because the in-house lawyer is exclusively focused on ensuring legal compliance and assessing the pros and cons, along with the repercussions for both the employees and the company.

Mexico is known for its extensive network of international trade agreements. How would you navigate the complex legal requirements associated with cross-border transactions, considering the changing trade dynamics and regulations in Mexico?

I have confidence that Mexico’s international relations with diverse nations will consistently bring in entrepreneurs. An example of this can be found in the agreement between the United States, Canada, and Mexico, known as T-MEC. One of its main objectives was to regulate and thereby equalise labour rights within the context of union matters. This was accomplished through collaboration between workers, unions, and businesses, achieving a balance in labour relations. This, in turn, sustains and enhances workers’ rights while also improving operational efficiency, communication, and, consequently, job sustainability.