Trust and cmpliance officer LATAM | Kyndryl

Mariana Conss Michel
Trust and cmpliance officer LATAM | Kyndryl
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?
As a compliance officer, my approach to legal risk during periods of instability is grounded in ethical leadership, proactive governance, and collaboration. I believe that moments of crisis are opportunities to reinforce our company’s values, strengthen internal accountability, and build long-term trust. I work closely with the investigations team to coordinate complex internal reviews, ensuring that findings are documented clearly, escalated appropriately, and translated into meaningful disciplinary actions and systemic improvements. These processes often involve collaboration with HR, Finance, and senior leadership, and are guided by global compliance standards and our commitment to integrity. In parallel, I partner with business leaders to ensure that our legal strategy supports continuity while upholding ethical standards.
What are the major cases or transactions you have been involved in recently?
Recently, I have been involved in several strategic matters that directly impacted business continuity and client engagement. One of the most meaningful contributions was working alongside colleagues from TCO and Legal across the LATAM region to conduct a detailed analysis of financial thresholds and governance criteria for high-impact commercial initiatives. This collaborative effort enabled us to unlock previously restricted opportunities for key customers, allowing the business to move forward with confidence and compliance. I am regularly engaged in reviewing high-stakes deals, where my role is to assess risks, validate governance frameworks, and ensure that legal and ethical standards are upheld. These transactions often involve complex negotiations and require a deep understanding of both regulatory requirements and business priorities. In addition to transactional work, I have helped navigate moments of tension and crisis with both internal and external stakeholders. In these situations, I prioritise transparency, fairness, and alignment with Kyndryl’s core values – especially our commitment to ethics above all – by fostering open dialogue and principled decision-making.
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?
Kyndryl has made significant strides in embedding sustainability into its core operations. In financial year 2025, the company achieved an 18% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and a 15% decrease in energy consumption compared with its financial year 2023 baseline, with 58% of electricity sourced from renewables. These efforts support our validated goal of reaching net-zero emissions by 2040. As part of the legal function, I contribute by ensuring that sustainability commitments are reflected in our governance frameworks and business decisions. I help assess regulatory risks and support responsible innovation.
How do you prioritize diversity and inclusion within your legal department, and what initiatives have you implemented to foster a more inclusive and equitable work environment?
Motherhood has been a powerful driver in my career, shaping my perspective on leadership and inclusion. Even while navigating the demands of parenting – especially as a mother of twins – I have always felt respected and supported in managing my schedule, which has allowed me to excel both professionally and personally. This experience has deepened my commitment to fostering a work environment where empathy, flexibility, and respect are not just values but daily practices. In addition to my role, I serve as a leader within WIN, Kyndryl’s Women Inclusion Network, part of the enterprise-level Kyndryl Inclusion Networks (KINs). These employee-led groups are dedicated to advancing equity through recruitment, retention, development, and allyship. Through WIN, I help create spaces where women across the company feel empowered to bring their whole selves to work, share experiences, and grow.
Associate counsel – Latin America legal department | Kyndryl México