Team size: Six

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?

Now more than ever, we as General Counsels must adopt a heuristic and stoic mindset to effectively assess regulatory and operational changes, helping to mitigate stress and uncertainty across the business. In a rapidly evolving environment, relying on diverse and reliable sources of information is essential to remain prepared and to proactively evaluate potential impacts in collaboration with business units.

The context is shifting quickly, and a conservative approach is no longer sufficient – we must be willing to take calculated risks.

What are the major cases or transactions you have been involved in recently?

I have been actively involved in the closure of a manufacturing plant, addressing labour and collective matters. This has presented a significant challenge due to the strategic outcomes planned by the organisation and the potential risks if the process is not executed correctly.

Additionally, I have supported the purchasing department in implementing alternative dispute resolution mechanisms during supplier negotiations. These efforts aim to prevent production line stoppages and avoid prolonged litigation, particularly given the uncertainty introduced by recent judicial reforms.

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?

ESG has become a critical priority for all companies, directly influencing financial performance and market perception. As General Counsels, we must take a leadership role in shaping, developing, and implementing ESG policies – anchored in a strong ‘tone at the top’ approach. ESG not only affects business operations but also builds trust with clients and stakeholders.

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 must ensure that hiring practices within our organisations – and particularly within legal teams – are transparent and inclusive. It is essential to foster a diverse and heterogeneous group, guided by a human and socially conscious perspective. This diversity enriches discussions, allowing for a 360° analysis of every legal matter and strengthening the team’s ability to deliver comprehensive and strategic counsel.