Vice president, legal and compliance | Lavoro Agro
André Rizk
Vice president, legal and compliance | Lavoro Agro
Team size: 90
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?
During my more than 25 years working in corporate law, one of my strengths has been the balance I have when dealing with crises and stressful moments. These are situations that large corporations typically face at some point in their lives, whether due to economic factors in the country, business restructuring, or even corporate disputes. The key is to constantly keep a sober eye on the facts and data of the moment, understand the corporation’s strategy, and act assertively and impartially. With these behaviours, the chances of making the right decisions increase substantially. And a fundamental element is constantly looking out for the best interests of the company, even when there is pressure from executives, shareholders, or other stakeholders.
What are the major cases or transactions you have been involved in recently?
Lavoro listing on NASDAQ, M&As and business restructuring.
What emerging technologies do you see as having the most significant impact on the legal profession in the near future, and how do you stay updated on these developments?
Artificial intelligence has undoubtedly arrived to further improve jurimetrics data. This information allows legal managers to make faster and more assertive decisions, generating effective economic gains for the corporation. There are a range of areas in which this intelligent data can help, such as volume and strategic litigation, and the management of root causes of lawsuits.
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?
In addition to the more traditional diversity and inclusion practices, the one I highlight the most is allowing everyone – regardless of their hierarchical level – to show up, learn and contribute. I believe that nothing is more inclusive for a professional than developing them and paving the way for their growth.
Vice president, legal and compliance | Lavoro Agro
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