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? 

During periods of instability or crises, managing legal aspects effectively is crucial. This involves identifying and assessing legal risks, staying informed about relevant laws and regulations, and maintaining open communication with stakeholders. Legal strategy should align with the broader business strategy by emphasising open communication and collaboration with key stakeholders, including executives, management, and relevant departments. Understanding their concerns, challenges, and expectations helps ensure that the legal strategy supports and enhances the overall business goals.

Additionally, leveraging technology and aligning the legal department’s strategy with the company’s objectives are fundamental components of effective legal management. Prioritising legal issues based on their significance, especially those that exacerbate other crises, is essential. By addressing the most critical issues first, legal services can effectively support the company’s products and services. Serving internal stakeholders enables them to better serve customers and maintain the company’s strength and stability.

In the past year, managing the legal aspects following acquisitions made by Equinix in Latam has demonstrated the importance of aligning with the global Equinix model for stability and growth. This approach supports the company’s resilience and long-term success through meticulous legal oversight and strategic alignment.

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? 

Emerging technologies are undoubtedly having a significant impact on the legal profession. AI, legal operations teams, and technological tools play a crucial role in providing legal support and ultimately benefiting our clients. These innovations optimise workflows, resource allocation, and project management, enhancing overall productivity and allowing legal teams to focus on strategic tasks.

AI is revolutionising the legal field by automating routine tasks such as document review and legal research and providing predictive analytics to inform decision-making. AI tools analyse vast amounts of data quickly, offering insights that would be challenging to obtain manually. Finding synergy between AI and talented teams of individuals can lead to highly successful legal teams.

Remaining informed about these advancements entails ongoing learning from industry publications, professional networks, and active participation in conferences, webinars, and related events. Equally important is maintaining close connections with people spearheading the integration of emerging technologies within and beyond legal teams.