Team size: 25

What are the key projects that you have been involved in over the past twelve months?

In 2025, I had the privilege of leading the sale process of a household appliances retail chain employing 1,000 people and operating 160 stores nationwide. In addition to the sale of the retail business, the transaction also included the transfer of a credit portfolio worth more than S/.100 million generated by the chain.

It was a seven-month period of intense work, not only due to the regulatory, corporate, tax, competition and financial aspects involved, but also because it required an extensive due diligence process and complex negotiation of contractual terms with the acquiring group.

Are there any particular challenges for which in-house counsel should be preparing in 2026?

The primary role of in-house lawyers is to deliver strategic value to the business in an increasingly disruptive environment. Rapid technological changes, combined with a complex regulatory and geopolitical context, require in-house counsel to understand and effectively manage digital platforms and the various AI tools that enable them to perform more efficiently.

These tools will allow them to enhance compliance risk models, identify business opportunities from their position and provide increasingly technical and specialised advisory support. All of this demands that in-house lawyers remain in a constant state of transformation and continuous improvement.

What do you think are the most important attributes for a modern in-house counsel to possess?

The most important attributes for a modern in-house counsel to possess include advanced legal knowledge. An in-house lawyer must be the guarantor of legality and contractual security within the company. This requires a solid professional background, outstanding legal expertise and sufficient experience to perform effectively.

Equally important is a strategic business vision. The in-house lawyer must act as a strategic partner, directly involved in the business from planning through to execution, particularly leading the areas under their responsibility. In addition to legal training, in-house lawyers should complement their expertise with knowledge in finance, business management, operations and other related fields.

Mastery of IT platforms and AI tools (Legal Tech) has also become essential. Rapid technological change and increased competitiveness demand greater efficiency from companies, often with leaner teams. The legal department is no exception, and proficiency in these tools makes a decisive difference for in-house lawyers.

Negotiation and communication skills are also critical. Given the inefficiencies of the judicial system and the increasing use of arbitration to resolve disputes, in-house lawyers must seek agreements that place the company in a stronger position than litigation would. Strong negotiation and effective communication skills are therefore essential, enabling them to influence decision-making within the organisation.

Finally, high ethical standards are fundamental. An in-house lawyer must serve as a role model within the organisation, not only for legal expertise but also for unwavering ethical conduct. As the professional responsible for designing and structuring the company’s key transactions, their role must also ensure that the organisation operates with integrity and sustainability.