Team size: 10

Major legal advisers: ECIJA regional law firm for Central America and the Caribbean; Cajigas and Co.

Which recent political, economic, or regulatory changes have impacted the company and the team the most?

The main impact common to all the jurisdictions under my scope is the pandemic. It called for adaptation to the new normality that concerned all the departments. The biggest issue we had to face was linked to restrictions to movements that had a direct impact on our patients with life-sustaining treatments (cardio-vascular, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, rare diseases like Pompe, Mucopolysaccharidosis, Fabry, Gaucher, and cancer), and with illnesses that are preventable with vaccines. People were scared to visit medical facilities where they were supposed to get treatments. Our company had to take the necessary steps to save the life of these patients, coordinate activities with the authorities, and start at-home procedures and vaccination campaigns. The legal department had a pivotal role in negotiating the agreements with vendors complying with all local regulations and company policies.

In what ways do you see the in-house legal role evolving in your region over the next few years?

The in-house legal role is evolving in many areas —assuming an active voice as executive committee members, becoming a project leader and contributor, and developing vast knowledge of business processes. General counsel are assuming leadership positions in taking over projects. The involvement in the company’s matters goes beyond a mere legal approach; instead, the legal team must develop business acumen and act in the company’s interests. Internal lawyers must be prepared to assess and overcome risks using their legal expertise. Additionally, it has become of great importance that lawyers know the business way beyond their legal perspectives to provide accurate advice.

How has the increasing consciousness of climate change and sustainability affected the company and the team’s priorities?

The company’s main priority is to protect the environment in which it performs. All our entities provide a strong profile as health, security, and environment officers, taking care of any detail related to environmental management. The legal department strongly supports this area by giving regular updates regarding any changes to current laws or any legal actions that the company shall take to protect the environment.