Can you tell us about your journey to becoming an in-house counsel? What inspired you to pursue a career in this field? 

My path towards becoming an in-house counsel began during my freshman year at law school. Over four years, I immersed myself in summer internships at Baker McKenzie (Juarez Office), where I was part of the International Trade and Customs Group. Upon graduating, I transitioned into the role of a junior lawyer for corporate and transactional at the same office. This pivotal step provided me with more than three years of invaluable exposure, allowing me to refine my legal acumen and gain rich experience in the manufacturing industry. My fascination for this field was heightened through my involvement in transactions, which illuminated the integral role of various legal domains in steering international companies and the intricate dynamics of the manufacturing sector. 

In your role as an in-house counsel, what are the main responsibilities and tasks you handle on a day-to-day basis? 

As an in-house counsel, my primary mandate is to offer precise and timely counsel on a diverse array of subjects, while also mitigating risks and ensuring adherence to compliance. This role requires a multifaceted skill set to serve as a dependable advisor within the corporate framework. My sole client is the company, underscoring the need to adeptly navigate various stakeholders, departments, and backgrounds. Communicating with different audiences, some not well-versed in legal jargon, is paramount. Business individuals desire direct answers, necessitating clear and accessible language for effective solution dissemination. 

What are some of the key challenges you have faced as a rising star in-house counsel, and how have you overcome them? 

The evolving regulatory landscape, influenced by global geopolitical and economic shifts, has posed a significant challenge. Navigating this dynamic requires continuous adaptability. I have honed the ability to pose the right questions, adopt the appropriate approach, and furnish solutions within specified timelines. The role of an in-house counsel demands a combination of business acumen and legal expertise, and a seat at the decision-making table. Building close relationships with key stakeholders has been instrumental in addressing these challenges. These connections facilitated deeper understanding of business intricacies, decision-making processes, and effective communication strategies. Embracing a perpetual learning mindset and translating newfound knowledge into practical applications remains pivotal for my growth. 

What steps have you taken to enhance your professional development and expand your legal skill set? 

The following steps contribute to my ongoing professional development and the expansion of my legal expertise: Engaging in idea exchanges to gain diverse perspectives; embracing innovative problem-solving approaches; actively seeking and incorporating feedback; collaborating with business leaders to bridge legal with operational aspects; staying attuned to industry shifts and emerging trends; vigilantly tracking legislative changes; recognising that learning is a continuous journey.