Head of legal, risk and compliance | Securitas Uruguay
Natalia Morales
Head of legal, risk and compliance | Securitas Uruguay
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?
I try to conduct a thorough risk analysis, establish crisis management protocols, foster a culture of open and transparent communication both internally and externally, and train our staff in decision making under pressure.
What are the main cases or transactions that you have been involved in recently?
Administrative appeals, labour and civil lawsuits, and corporate matters encompass a range of legal services, including challenging governmental decisions, resolving employment disputes, addressing personal and commercial grievances, and managing corporate governance. These areas involve navigating complex regulatory frameworks, protecting client interests, and ensuring compliance with applicable laws to safeguard rights and promote fair practices.
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?
Our company has integrated sustainability into its core operations by implementing environmentally responsible practices, such as reducing energy consumption, minimising waste, and adopting circular economy models. The general counsel plays a pivotal role in ensuring compliance with sustainability regulations, advising on ethical sourcing, and fostering transparent corporate governance. By promoting social justice, we ensure diversity and inclusion in hiring and procurement. We act on the climate crisis through initiatives to reduce our carbon footprint. We support a sustainable economy by investing in green technologies and encourage responsible consumption with ethical supply chains. Innovation is central, driving eco-friendly solutions.
How do you prioritise diversity and inclusion within your legal department, and what initiatives have you implemented to foster a more inclusive and equitable work environment?
We prioritise diversity and inclusion in our legal department through targeted recruitment efforts that emphasize hiring from diverse backgrounds. Additionally, we implement regular training programs to raise awareness on unconscious bias and promote inclusive leadership. These initiatives create an equitable work environment where diverse perspectives are valued, enhancing collaboration and innovation.
What role does the legal department play in promoting and ensuring corporate social responsibility in your organisation?
The legal department plays a crucial role in promoting corporate social responsibility (CSR) by identifying and mitigating legal risks related to ethical practices, environmental impact, and regulatory compliance. By ensuring adherence to CSR guidelines and standards, the legal team helps protect the company’s reputation, fosters accountability, and drives responsible business practices.
What do you see as the major legal challenges for businesses in Uruguay over the next five years, and how are you preparing to address them?
To follow the dynamics of the business without neglecting risk control and adapting to the innovation that involves incorporating technological tools to our daily work.
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