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?

The legal team participated in an innovation workshop with the goal of identifying challenges and strengthening our ability to solve problems, aiming to increase our department’s agility and effectiveness, and ultimately, providing more to value to the various teams within the business. In the workshop, we identified areas for improvement in specific processes and activities. Subsequently, we addressed these issues by implementing workflow automation for several processes and management solutions.

Can you foresee any key developments to the way general counsel work over the next five years?

I believe that soon there will be significant increase in the adoption of artificial intelligence and the automation of tasks, processes, and workflows, all of which will help to reduce cost and time consumption. Furthermore, legal departments will continue to transition towards remote and flexible work arrangements, as well as an increased emphasis on promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. These changes will directly increase both productivity and efficiency.

Mexico is known for its extensive network of international trade agreements. How would you navigate the complex legal requirements associated with cross-border transactions, considering the changing trade dynamics and regulations in Mexico?

As a result of recent disruptions in the supply chain and the demand for more efficient shipping schedules and reduced shipping expenses, Mexico has become a highly favourable destination for nearshoring, due to its proximity to the US and the international trade agreements it has in place.

It is of utmost importance to remain up to date on the evolving trade regulations and practices, in order to effectively navigate the complex legal issues linked with cross-border transactions and the dynamic nature of trade, it is essential for in-house teams to develop the necessary expertise on trade regulations. This will enable them to implement the most effective and current approaches within their organisations. This might include seeking support from specialised professionals who not only possess knowledge of foreign trade and cross-border transactions but also exhibit an awareness of the social, political, and economic dimensions.