What are the projects that you are most proud of working on over the past 12 months?

Two projects stand out.

First, I successfully led the internal legal process for DaVita’s acquisition of Fresenius Medical Care’s health services operations in Ecuador. Given the acquired company’s significant market share, the transaction required notification and approval from Ecuador’s antitrust authority. The process was completed smoothly, with full regulatory approval and no issues. Beyond ensuring compliance, I facilitated a seamless integration into the new company’s culture and policies.

Additionally, in my last year at Fresenius Medical Care, I took on legal oversight for Curaçao and Guatemala, in addition to Ecuador. Managing these markets without prior exposure to their legal frameworks was a challenge, but I quickly adapted, ensuring operational continuity and compliance. This experience reinforced my ability to lead effectively across diverse regulatory environments.

How do you approach managing legal aspects during periods of instability or crisis to ensure the organisation’s resilience?

I lead with honesty, transparency, and empathy, especially in times of uncertainty. Rather than sugarcoating challenges, I provide clarity and direction.

Last year, when the company I advised underwent a major restructuring and partial acquisition, the future was uncertain. I remained upfront with my team and focused on turning uncertainty into opportunity. Through proactive leadership, one of my team members earned a promotion within the remaining company, while the rest transitioned successfully to the acquiring company with improved conditions. My approach is to create stability, foster growth, and guide my team with confidence, ensuring both individual success and organisational resilience.

What strategies do you employ to ensure the successful digital transformation of a legal department while maintaining compliance with your country’s data protection laws?

One of the most fascinating experiences in my career was being part of the legal team involved in the construction, development, and transition of Quito’s Mariscal Sucre International Airport. This was one of the few greenfield projects of its scale in Ecuador, making it a truly remarkable undertaking.

Beyond the legal complexities, the transition from one airport to another was a highly sophisticated logistical and regulatory challenge, requiring meticulous planning and execution. Being part of such a transformative project—one that significantly reshaped an entire city—is an experience I may never have the chance to replicate in my lifetime.

What do you think sets you apart from other in-house counsel?

Two things define my approach.

First, I lead my department with a service-first mindset. My focus is on ensuring that my team embodies this philosophy, which keeps egos in check, fosters humility, and makes us approachable to anyone who needs our support.

Second, I see myself as a translator between the legal world and the business. In every industry I’ve worked in, I prioritise understanding the business inside and out, allowing me to bridge the gap between legal and commercial interests. By facilitating dialogue between internal teams and external counsel, I create synergies that drive better outcomes, even in scenarios where priorities may initially seem misaligned.