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?   

As a legal team, we strive to provide innovative solutions that have a positive impact on the entire company. In our pursuit, we continuously adapt best practices of corporate governance, refining them to better suit our company. Our focus is on prioritising time and agility in decision-making, often overlooked but crucial for organisational success. By restructuring the board meetings and the way we deliver information, we have reduced session times, created spaces for greater participation, facilitated agreements, and allowed us to review other strategic and risk control topics. This has enabled the board to have a greater impact on strategic actions and ultimately improve overall performance.   

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

Collaboration across different areas of the company is crucial. By fostering strong relationships, general counsels can navigate complexity and contribute to overall success. In addition, business knowledge, technical expertise, and adaptability are key skills that general counsels must possess. This is not only because they need to provide legal solutions to new ways of conducting business, but also because sudden and significant changes are common in today’s corporate landscape. Technology, for example, has proven that it’s possible to ensure both compliance needs and operational efficiency. General counsels must not only focus on risk assessments but also embrace new technologies and be creative, to act as change catalysts rather than simply authorisation levels. 

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?   

Our sustainability practices are rooted in a well-defined ESG strategy, which outlines our key objectives pertaining to strategic projects such as waste reduction, GHG emissions, and water management. To ensure the implementation and success of these practices, we have a dedicated management board and a committed staff who are fully aligned with our sustainability goals. I take pride in believing that I have played a significant role in fostering this commitment. Through close collaboration and direct engagement with shareholders and the management board, I have been able to advocate for and drive the adoption of best governance practices. Additionally, my background of seven years working with an NGO has instilled in me a deep concern for sustainability and social issues, further strengthening my dedication to promoting sustainable practices within our organisation.   

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? 

Continuous knowledge updating and a mindset of lifelong learning are crucial to achieve that. So, it is collaboration. Not only within our team but also with experts who possess extensive experience in navigating legal complexities and other fields, providing valuable insights. As legal professionals, we have a responsibility to contribute our expertise and expand our knowledge base. It is important to effectively translate our knowledge into the language of the company’s business operations. Understanding the risk implications associated with transactions is a priority, as we strive to strike a balance between facilitating negotiations and ensuring responsible investments. By maintaining this focus, we actively contribute to the company’s success and growth.