Legal manager | LATAM Airlines Ecuador
Mariela Anchundia Mieles
Legal manager | LATAM Airlines Ecuador
What are the projects that you are most proud of working on over the past 12 months?
One of my key achievements was the approval of a regulatory reform project that allowed LATAM Ecuador to operate exclusive international cargo flights, establishing us as the first Ecuadorian airline to conduct regularly scheduled cargo services internationally. I was also actively involved as a member of the working committees of Ecuador’s National Civil Aviation Council, where we focused on reforming the operational permit regulations. These reforms are aimed at benefiting the aviation industry and positioning Ecuador to be more competitive in the region, supported by a modern and dynamic regulatory framework.
Another significant accomplishment was successfully obtaining approval for modifications to aviation regulations that removed operational barriers, enabling LATAM to operate foreign-registered aircraft within Ecuadorian territory. Furthermore, I played a pivotal role in positioning LATAM Ecuador as a compliance benchmark within the aviation industry, earning recognition from regulatory entities, private sector counterparts, suppliers, and internal stakeholders.
How do you approach managing legal aspects during periods of instability or crisis to ensure the organisation’s resilience?
It is essential to foster a preventive culture that anticipates and mitigates risks through continuous monitoring of the regulatory and political landscape. Maintaining an open, transparent, direct, and proactive relationship with key regulatory authorities is crucial to ensure timely and effective communication during contingencies. I consistently advocate for Human Resources to maintain positive relations with LATAM employees, particularly with unions and associations. This proactive approach helps to reduce conflict and ensures organizational stability. Furthermore, the ongoing review and reinforcement of compliance policies, the periodic revision and adjustment of contractual clauses in response to new legal regulations or environmental changes, and the regular evaluation of executive and employee roles and responsibilities are all critical.
Processes within each area must also be digitized and securely shared across the organisation to facilitate seamless access, while ensuring the protection and reliability of sensitive information.
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?
In 2024, my goal was to align all administrative, operational, technical, and legal processes with Ecuador’s Organic Law on Personal Data Protection (LOPDP). I initiated a data protection consultancy, carefully auditing daily activities and records across LATAM’s departments. Identified gaps were addressed through a remediation plan, with ongoing monitoring and complete digitalisation of documentation under rigorous security standards.
LATAM is at the forefront of technology use, regularly employing advanced tools such as AI, ChatGPT, Amelia, Gemini, and SpellBook. However, it is crucial that this use aligns strictly with national regulatory requirements. For this reason, I conduct weekly meetings with our external data protection consultancy (NIUBOX) to proactively identify risks and implement mitigation measures. These measures include thorough contract reviews, strengthening policies governing AI usage, comprehensive staff training, and periodic simulations to identify vulnerabilities and improve security measures.
Have you had any experiences during your career as a lawyer that stand out as particularly unique or interesting?
Numerous experiences stand out, but two recent situations have been particularly significant. The global COVID-19 pandemic had a severe impact on the aviation industry, prompting LATAM to voluntarily file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in the United States. This allowed operations to continue while we restructured debt and enhanced financial stability. It was a highly challenging and unprecedented process for me personally. However, the collaborative effort and support from the law firm Pérez Bustamante & Ponce played a crucial role in enabling a smooth and successful navigation of this complex procedure in Ecuador.
Another significant achievement was securing regulatory approval for LATAM Airlines Ecuador to join the Joint Venture (JV) between Delta and LATAM, representing a historic milestone in Ecuador’s aviation sector. This was the first time an Ecuadorian airline had participated in such a major commercial alliance, greatly enhancing connectivity between North America and Ecuador. The intensive year-long effort required to gain this approval has already started to produce tangible benefits.
How can general counsel foster a corporate culture that supports ESG principles and compliance across all levels of the organisation?
Firstly, it is imperative to establish trust within the organisation and among executives, built upon a proven record of ethical and transparent conduct. Secondly, demonstrating a robust understanding of governance principles and effectively communicating these is crucial. Promoting integrated internal policies—including Codes of Ethics, Environmental Policy, Diversity, Anti-corruption, and Anti-Money Laundering policies—is essential. Regular training initiatives, coupled with a secure, confidential, and effective whistleblower channel, help maintain vigilance against irregularities.
Incorporating ESG and compliance topics into executive agendas and developing clear objectives that reinforce ongoing corporate commitment ensures alignment across the organisation. Finally, embedding strong corporate governance clauses in all contractual relationships and encouraging suppliers to adopt these practices throughout their value chains strengthens a cohesive and responsible ESG culture.
Legal assistant manager | Latam Airlines Ecuador
