What are the most significant cases or transactions that your legal team has recently been involved in?

We worked around the clock on the negotiations and execution of Pfizer supply agreements of Covid-19 vaccine and treatment option, in order to make them available to the people in South American markets. We were also involved in tech transfer negotiations, innovative market access agreements, as well as M&A transactions and internal reorganisations. I implemented the new risk counsellor model and new operating approach for lawyers. We developed an equity program and enhanced the contracting process of outside counsel. Legal SoLA team members have taken secondments opportunities outside of their markets which have contributed with the acceleration of their development.

Did the pandemic lead to a lasting increase in the interaction your legal team has with the strategic plans of the company?

Ultimately, yes. Our legal department played a leadership role on the negotiations of Covid-19 vaccines and treatment option, on the management of legal aspects related to the remote work and had to work intensively on the matters related to all relevant products needed to face Covid-19 complications, as well as supported the manufacturing plant on a variety of matters.

How important is choosing to work with external lawyers who align with your company’s values? Are you likely to reconsider what firms you work with based on this?

It is core and essential. We only work with law firms that are aligned with our values of equity, excellence, courage and joy and that are working hard to improve its culture based on such values.

In general, what would you like to see change about the external law firms you use? Examples could be greater flexibility in billing, a more expansive suite of services offered, more transparency in reporting ESG statistics etc.

I would like to see greater focus on diversity and inclusion programs and initiatives, secondments, and analytics on the reports of activities.

As we live in a fast-paced world today, what skills will a corporate legal team need to succeed in the modern in-house industry?

I would suggest a high collaborative approach and focus on what matters, more innovation and a business-oriented mentality.

The unusual business environment created by the pandemic has been swiftly followed by other shocks. Are you now putting more emphasis on preparing for the unforeseen and, if so, what does this entail?

We have expanded internal and external networking, focused on people development in the digital area and spend more time on future trend analysis.