Between law and business
Ana Bayo Busta, chief legal patents & compliance officer at Bayer Iberia, shares achievements, strategies, and her vision for the future of the legal framework in the life science industry
by ilaria iaquinta
Steering the legal department of Bayer in Iberia for the past four years, Ana Bayó Busta navigates the challenges of the life science sector. An industry on which her career has been predominantly focused on, starting in private before joining Menarini. A shift to the corporate environment that she would repeat a million times over, confesses Bayó Busta to Iberian Lawyer. “I am at heart a corporate lawyer. Although I spent ten years in law firms, I love being close to the business, thinking about strategies,” she comments.
Since joining Bayer, Bayó Busta has led the legal team tackling the regulatory and strategic challenges of the firm. She does so with a clear yet engaging leadership style, integrating humour and fostering a positive environment. “We joke around a lot,” she assures. “Moreover, we operate in several regulated and highly stimulating sectors, which keeps us motivated.”
In this interview, she shares her achievements, the strategies she has implemented, and her outlook on the future of the industry’s future.
You recently celebrated four years as legal director for Iberia. What have been the main achievements of the team during this period?
We have strengthened our collaboration with Bayer’s business units: pharma, consumer health, and crop science, providing more effective support tailored to their needs. We implemented simplification measures and streamlined bureaucracy, consolidating our structure in Iberia and operating as a unified team between Spain and Portugal. We have also closed significant transactions, such as the sale of factories and the division of veterinary products, underscoring the pivotal role of our legal team in Bayer’s business strategies.
And what else?
Our multifunctional approach includes legal, compliance and patents advice, working closely with other departments and the three different businesses. My experience at firms like Clifford Chance Barcelona has prepared me to lead product defense and ensure their exclusivity. Additionally, we have been pioneers in global projects and legal operations, simplifying complex processes and enhancing user experience. Engaging in virtual development projects has expanded our global capabilities, allowing us to learn from diverse international contexts without the need for extensive travel.
What strategies have you implemented to strengthen the department’s efficiency and effectiveness?
