Over the past year, I have had the privilege of leading several impactful projects that have advanced both operational efficiency and customer experience within my organisation. Among the initiatives of which I am most proud is the integration of artificial intelligence tools into our legal and compliance workflows. By leveraging AI, my team has significantly streamlined tasks such as legal research, document drafting, and compliance monitoring. This innovation has allowed us to dedicate more time to strategic decision-making and complex challenges, ultimately enhancing our contribution to the organisation’s success.

In parallel, we embarked on a comprehensive modernisation of our legal operations framework. Collaborating with external experts, we aligned our internal processes and technologies with evolving industry standards and regulatory requirements. This overhaul not only improved our efficiency but also enabled us to better serve our clients by providing faster and more robust support.

Another key area of focus has been optimising the user experience across our digital platforms, including our mobile app and website. By prioritising intuitive design and legal compliance, we have strengthened customer trust and satisfaction, which is critical in the financial services landscape.

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? 

Grupo Financiero G&T Continental has taken meaningful steps to integrate sustainability into its core business practices by implementing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives across its operations. In 2023–24, the company advanced several key sustainability measures. Solar panels were installed at the administrative headquarters, reducing electricity consumption by 11% per month. A water harvesting system contributed over 100,000 gallons back to the water table, while a new air conditioning system lowered energy use by 20%. The organisation also increased digital transactions by 35% and facilitated over Q60 million in digital loans, advancing financial inclusion and reducing dependence on physical resources. Programs such as GTC Mujer, which supports women entrepreneurs, and GTC Planet, promoting environmentally responsible spending, reflect the company’s commitment to empowering communities and driving positive environmental change. Since 2016, the company has employed the Environmental Risk Analysis System (SARAS), recently optimised to ensure rigorous assessment of environmental risks in its credit operations.

The General Counsel plays a vital role in embedding sustainability into the company’s strategy. They develop and refine internal policies to incorporate ESG considerations into daily operations, oversee adherence to local and international regulations to mitigate risks, and guide the design of financial products aligned with sustainability goals. Furthermore, the General Counsel collaborates on sustainability reports to ensure the accurate communication of the company’s progress and commitments. Through these efforts, the General Counsel ensures that sustainability is not merely an add-on but a fundamental part of the organisation’s operations and long-term vision.

What is a cause, business-related or otherwise, that you care about, and why?

Beyond professional accomplishments, I remain deeply committed to community service. As Vice President of the Board for Sociedad Protectora del Niño, I work to support children from underserved communities, helping to create environments in which they can thrive. These efforts reflect my commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and social impact – values that guide both my professional work and personal contributions.