How do you approach managing legal aspects during periods of instability or crises, and how does your legal strategy align with the broader business strategy to ensure the organisation’s resilience?

In navigating legal challenges during periods of instability, strategic partnerships are invaluable. I recently learned the criticality of having the right people in place and cultivating a robust, trustworthy team. This involves proactive communication and active listening to understand the perspectives not only of my legal team but also external counsel and different business partners. Only through open communication can we truly align the legal strategy with the broader business strategy. It is essential to ask the right questions and to be empathetic. This requires a delicate balance. To act as a trusted advisor, providing thorough legal analysis while remaining flexible enough to support the achievement of business goals.

For instance, we are now facing one of the most challenging crises, demanding analysis and resolution of a wide variety of legal issues within a compressed time frame. Dealing with stress, fatigue, and vulnerability while delivering not always the expected results, motivating the team to remain resilient is a significant challenge. However, maintaining a positive attitude, encouraging creative thinking, and generating ideas to mitigate risks in foreign legislation has proven to be my most significant contribution. Partnering with the legal director of the Andean Region (my boss), the former general counsel of Peru, my team, and a robust team of external counsel helped us overcome a legal hurdle, enabling us to transmit positive and trustful messages to the business to overcome the problem. By fostering strong partnerships and prioritising alignment, we ensure the organisation’s resilience during even the most challenging times.

What emerging technologies do you see as having the most significant impact on the legal profession in the near future, and how do you stay updated on these developments?

The legal landscape is rapidly evolving, and several emerging technologies hold significant potential to reshape the profession. Among the most impactful are artificial intelligence (AI) and data management. AI tools are already enhancing contract management, as evidenced by our recent project where AI tracked past negotiations and offered insightful recommendations, leading to faster and more efficient drafting. Data management, through tools like Power BI, empowers lawyers to analyse legal procedures, court decisions, and other relevant information to make data-driven decisions.

Staying abreast of these advancements requires a proactive approach. I actively listen to partners who offer ideas and subscribe to publications, engaging with internal tech communities. The PepsiCo LatAm legal team has been organised into a Centre of Excellence (CoE), allowing different internal lawyers to share ideas and improve alignment in decision-making as one legal team. The CoE encourages lawyers to explore digitalisation and technology solutions, including startups and alternative methods for managing data and legal issues. This initiative has inspired creativity and a willingness to embrace technology among our colleagues.

Additionally, I promote continuous learning to my team through online courses, and now, the digital mindset is considered part of the recruiting process for new hires. Undoubtedly, the new generation will teach us to be more digital. By embracing these technologies and staying informed, lawyers can adapt to the changing landscape and deliver greater value to their clients.