Team size: Six

Major legal advisers: Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría, Holland & Knight, Chapman Wilches

Could you share an example of a time when you came up with an innovation that improved how your legal team works and did not come at a large expense?

Our in-house team faced a significant administrative burden in monitoring and supervising compliance with over 150 legal obligations from various departments. These obligations encompassed tasks such as renewing environmental permits, filing financial statements, re-certifying programs, among others.

As general counsel, addressing this challenge was of utmost importance. Thus, we prioritised finding a solution that was user-friendly, swiftly implementable, and easy to audit. To achieve this, we opted for a software solution provided by a third party. This software empowered the respective owners of obligations across different departments by delivering early alerts, ensuring they had ample time to complete processes and upload necessary evidence within a unified application.

This innovative approach not only streamlined our compliance monitoring but also relieved our team from arduous administrative tasks. By leveraging technology effectively, we achieved notable improvements in our legal operations while maintaining a cost-conscious approach.

What measures has your company taken to embed sustainability practices into its core business operations, and how does the role of the general counsel contribute to driving and ensuring sustainable practices within the company?

To embed sustainability practices into our core business operations, our company has taken several measures. In 2017, we adopted a comprehensive sustainability strategy built upon three fundamental pillars. First, we strive to promote continuous, ethical, and responsible growth. Second, we prioritise leading eco-efficiencies and fostering innovation. Lastly, we are committed to enhancing our environment.

As part of this strategy, we have diligently measured our carbon footprint, using 2016 as the baseline, and consistently tracked our initiatives’ impact on sustainability year over year. Our focus now lies in developing a robust carbon neutrality strategy. This involves generating energy from alternative sources, reducing our production’s environmental impact, adopting practices that promote the reuse of residues, and embracing the principles of the circular economy.

As the general counsel and director of corporate affairs, I play a pivotal role in formulating and implementing our carbon neutrality strategy. My responsibilities revolve around driving leadership commitment to combat climate change, spearheading initiatives related to renewable energy, enhancing energy efficiency projects, optimising our production chain by managing suppliers, and structuring projects that offset greenhouse gas emissions. By undertaking these actions, we aim to achieve certification as a carbon neutral company, further solidifying our dedication to sustainable practices.

What is a cause, business-related or otherwise, you are passionate about, and why?

One cause that I am deeply passionate about is viewing climate change as a business opportunity rather than a corporate burden. With over 50% of global emissions originating from companies and industrial activities, it is crucial for organisations to recognise the potential for environmental conservation and the preservation of natural resources as avenues for business growth and value creation.

When we examine internal initiatives driven by the principles of the circular economy, we can effectively minimise waste, prolong resource utilisation, and promote reuse and recycling. This, in turn, reduces our dependence on raw materials. By striving to reduce resource extraction, improving efficiency in resource utilisation, minimising waste generation, and adopting proper disposal practices, we can positively impact the overall product footprint and life cycle.

Furthermore, as a window and glass company, we can focus on developing energy-efficient solutions and products that contribute to lower carbon emissions. Concurrently, aligning with the growing trend of sustainable construction practices and materials that meet green building standards, we can channel our efforts towards innovation and product development that appeals to environmentally conscious customers. By seizing these opportunities, we not only meet market demands but also contribute to global sustainability endeavours, all while leveraging these opportunities to our advantage.