Legal manager | Saceem
Federico Gianero López
Legal manager | Saceem
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?
Recently, in coordination with other areas of the company, we have decided to start implementing electronic signatures. We are confident that its implementation will allow us to streamline processes and reduce the time needed to sign contracts and documents. SACEEM, being a leading company in the engineering market, and given its activity, signs more than 1000 contracts and documents per year. To successfully implement this tool, we must not only carry out the corresponding legal analysis, but also adjust the internal processes and train and inform the different areas of the company on the operation of the tool.
Finally, we believe that the implementation of this practice will allow us to reduce the use of paper, which has a positive impact not only on cost and time, but on the environment. As a leading engineering company, we aim to prevent pollution, minimise adverse effects on the environment and conserve natural resources. The internal commitments we have made aim to promote environmental protection through the implementation of practices aimed at minimising impacts and managing environmental aspects. We also ensure compliance with the legal and regulatory requirements of the organisation, as well as those established by customers and interested parties.
What are some of the main trends impacting the industry sector you work in in Uruguay?
Both globally and in Uruguay, there is an increasing focus on the adoption of renewable energy sources to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and mitigate climate change. Particularly in our sector, there is a focus on the production of green hydrogen.
What are some of the key developments that have affected your business over the past year?
In June 2023, due to the scarcity of rainfall in recent times, the national government decreed a water emergency for the country’s metropolitan area. In this regard, the company has sought solutions to this problem. Specifically, a large-scale national-level project is being carried out to avoid the shortage of fresh water in the metropolitan area. The project involves the installation of 13.5 kilometres of imported pipes to add up to 200,000 cubic metres of raw water per day to the plant that supplies the country’s metropolitan area.
General counsel - legal manager | Saceem