Assistant general counsel | Phoenix Tower International
Carlos Ugarte Johnson
Assistant general counsel | Phoenix Tower International
Team size: 15
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?
My focus is on keeping the business running while minimising legal exposure and with having compliance as top of mind. Anticipate the Worst scenarios, tracking legal shifts and update contracts to include clear exit clauses, force majeure triggers, and cost-sharing terms. Protect Critical Operations, work local legal counsels to ensure compliance with local law. Keep Stakeholders aligned, having transparent communication with internally and with external stakeholders.
It’s not just about avoiding risk; it’s about making sure the company can adapt quickly when things go sideways.”
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?
Sustainability is woven into our operations through energy-efficient infrastructure, circular supply chains, and solar panels. As lead counsel for the jurisdictions I manage, I ensure these practices are legally enforceable by embedding appropriate clauses in contracts, advising on evolving regulations, and turning ESG compliance into a competitive advantage. Beyond risk mitigation, we are making sustainability a business driver, proving that legal can enable both resilience and growth.
Senior legal counsel | Phoenix Tower International