Team size: Seven

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

My team has been involved in many relevant recent transactions. Firstly, we facilitated the acquisition of Pismo, a global cloud-native issuer processing and core banking platform, in an all-cash deal worth US$1bn – the deal was approved by CADE on January 24.

We also launched Visa Click to Pay; a streamlined online checkout method offered by Visa. This service, based on the EMV Secure Remote Commerce (SRC) industry standard, uses advanced payment technology and intelligent security to reduce the time users spend making payments. It includes multiple layers of security, such as data encryption and fraud detection, to protect payment information.

We have also executed several marketing campaigns using our global sponsorship assets, most recently for this year’s Olympic Games in Paris. Furthermore, we developed and launched new payment services for regulated meal voucher transactions, specifically after changes in the laws regulating the workers’ nutrition program (PAT – Programa de Alimentação ao Trabalhador).

Recently, we onboarded several new fintechs and digital players to the Visa Developer Platform. This open platform provides developers with access to many of Visa’s most popular payment services and technologies, helping businesses, merchants, and individual developers create more streamlined and efficient payment experiences in their products and services.

Moreover, we supported a deal with Kobold, a company with over 30 years of experience in the credit market, to launch a pioneering product aimed at B2B transactions. Lastly, we launched the Visa Infinite Lounge at Guarulhos Airport.

What would you say are the unique qualities required to be successful as an in-house lawyer in your industry?

Being a successful in-house lawyer in our industry requires a unique blend of technical knowledge, industry understanding, and interpersonal skills. In my opinion, there are some essential qualities required. Firstly, our industry is highly regulated, complex, and constantly evolving. A solid understanding of the laws, regulations, and latest trends affecting the industry is crucial. Secondly, familiarity with technology, especially those related to digital payments and cybersecurity, is necessary as technology increasingly drives the payment industry.

In-house lawyers must also be able to communicate complex legal concepts in an understandable manner to various stakeholders – including both written and verbal communication. Furthermore, a good in-house lawyer does not just understand the law; they understand the business and its strategic objectives. They possess business acumen, aligning legal advice with business goals.

Problem-solving skills are also crucial. The ability to anticipate potential legal issues and offer practical solutions is key. This includes risk management and the ability to balance business objectives with legal compliance. Moreover, our industry is fast-paced and constantly changing. Being adaptable and flexible is vital to keep up with new challenges, technologies, and regulations.

In-house lawyers often work with different teams across the organisation. Being able to work collaboratively and maintain good relationships with other departments is essential. Upholding high ethical standards and maintaining confidentiality is naturally a must in any legal position. Additionally, effective negotiation skills can help achieve favourable outcomes for the company.

Finally, laws and regulations are continually changing, especially in a dynamic industry like payments. We need to be committed to continuous learning and professional development.

How have you fostered a closer collaboration between the legal department and your business counterparts?

I foster closer collaboration between the legal department and business counterparts in several ways. First, I prioritise open communication and transparency. I ensure that all parties understand the legal aspects of business decisions by explaining complex legal concepts in simple, accessible language. I encourage regular meetings and check-ins to keep everyone on the same page and promote continuous dialogue.

Secondly, I try to understand the business well. I spend time with different teams, learning about their projects and challenges. This allows me to provide relevant and practical legal advice that aligns with the company’s strategic objectives.

Third, I proactively identify areas where legal can add value beyond traditional risk management. This includes advising on strategic initiatives, participating in the development of new products and services, and providing training to the business teams on relevant legal topics.

Lastly, I promote a culture of partnership. I emphasise that the legal department is not just a service function but a strategic partner that can help the business achieve its goals. By fostering a collaborative and supportive environment, we can work effectively together and achieve significant successes.

Do you have a cause, business-related or otherwise, that you are passionate about?

In my opinion, passion is the key ingredient for professional success. As the leading in-house counsel of a payment technology company, one of the causes I am most passionate about is understanding and learning about the business, which keeps changing at a surprisingly quick pace. Keeping up with new business models and new technologies amid sophisticated and complex regulations is an everlasting challenge that requires constant business interaction and discussions. I love discussing new business strategies, which in turn helps me become a better professional for my clients.