Team size:    7 

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? 

The added value of a corporate lawyer lies in providing Management with advice from a legal and risk perspective, particularly in aligning with the strategic objectives of the business. This involves understanding the financial, economic, and business context in which the company operates. During periods of instability or crises, my approach focuses on identifying legal advantages and assessing actions to anticipate, prevent, and mitigate potential impacts on business continuity and the company’s strategic goals. To achieve this, it is essential to have a comprehensive understanding of all business aspects, stay actively involved in both strategic and operational processes, and maintain regular communication with peers within the organisation as well as with international and local legal and reputational advisors. 

By setting objectives aligned with business needs, we ensure a strong legal and regulatory presence in forums that influence decision-making within the company and the sector. This involvement provides timely access to legal and regulatory initiatives that could affect the company’s operations, enabling us to adjust our strategy to manage risks effectively and meet our objectives. 

What are the main cases or transactions you have been involved in recently? 

In recent years, I have supported significant transactions and strategic initiatives within the company. This includes providing legal support for strategic planning and advising on the regulatory modifications to the Dominican Pension System. These modifications aimed to update the system in line with the country’s context and the needs of its affiliates, ensuring pension protection and the system’s sustainability within the framework of the Dominican Constitution. 

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? 

In 2024, I am leading a strategic project to incorporate climate change considerations into the company’s Process Map. This initiative aims to integrate aspects of climate change as a critical factor in achieving the objectives of each management system and its impact. This is done in accordance with ISO Standards, particularly ISO 9001 and the recent amendment published by ISO in February 2024. The process involves considering the interests of stakeholders who have an impact and responsibility for environmental protection across all management areas. 

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? 

Effective decision-making in business relies on accurate information and its impact on critical processes. I believe that corporate lawyers must integrate and analyse data to provide reliable information for strategic business direction. Artificial Intelligence (AI) plays a significant role in this, as it captures data from company operations and the broader political, economic, and financial context. By aligning AI with business and strategic guidelines, as well as risk appetite parameters, we can enhance decision-making processes. This leads to better, objective decisions that positively impact productivity and efficiency. 

In line with this approach, we have implemented a technological system that collects regulatory, strategic, and risk information. This system operates within the framework of strategic principles and good Corporate Governance, employing a comprehensive GRC (Governance, Risk Management, and Compliance) management scheme.