Iberian Lawyer Forty under 40 2024, the winners
The winners of the Iberian Lawyer 2024 Forty under 40 Awards were announced at the ceremony gala held on Thursday 26th of October at the Espacio KOI in Madrid.
The ceremony gathered numerous representatives of prestigious law firms and company’s in-house departments of Spain and Portugal to recognize the most promising young lawyers and teams in the Iberian market. The awards were an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of the top lawyers and teams under 40 years, who will lead the legal profession in the future and deserve to be recognized for their hard work and dedication in their respective practices
PRIVATE PRACTICE CATEGORIES
TEAM OF THE YEAR
Gómez-Acebo & Pombo
The law firm team is composed by very talented young lawyers able to work cohesively and face brilliantly several challenges. Thanks to the positive outcomes obtained in ambitious and complex deals, the professionals are strongly affirming themselves as key individuals in the market.
LAWYER OF THE YEAR
Sara Soares – Abreu Advogados
Despite the age, the professional is an experienced tax advisor, particularly skilled in handling cross-border transactions, tax litigation, and investment projects in various industries.
THOUGHT LEADERSHIP
Rosa Espín – Ambar Partners
With 14 years of experience at leading international law firms, this lawyer is a distinguished professional whose extensive network and deep expertise are driving an innovative project in the legal sector across Spain and Continental Europe.
TEAM OF THE YEAR ARBITRATION
Ayuela Jiménez
The arbitration team is considered one of the most technical skilled in the Iberian landscape. The lawyers have actively devised the strategy of the clients’ line of defense, not only on procedural grounds but also on the merits.
LAWYER OF THE YEAR ARBITRATION
Borja Díaz-Puertollano García – RocaJunyent
The lawyer has developed a strong expertise in dispute resolution matters, especially in out-of-court settlements across diverse economic sectors. During the last 12 months he advised important companies in the Iberian market.
TEAM OF THE YEAR BANKING & FINANCE
Deloitte Legal
The under 40 professionals supervised numerous deals involving prominent clients of the market, they distinguished themselves for the technical skills and capability to handle complex issues.
LAWYER OF THE YEAR BANKING & FINANCE
Guillermo Crespo Gómez – EY
The professional showcases an outstanding expertise in corporate and structured finance, advising leading financial institutions and corporations. He proved his skills handling large-scale shipping finance deals.
TEAM OF THE YEAR CAPITAL MARKETS (DEBT & EQUITY)
A&O Shearman
The law firm team has handled some of the most pivotal transactions in the sector. The professionals’ deep understanding of market dynamics, coupled with a strategic approach to complex deals, has driven significant client successes.
LAWYER OF THE YEAR CAPITAL MARKETS (DEBT & EQUITY)
Miguel Sánchez – ECIJA
The legal professional is specialized in capital markets, corporate governance, and M&A, advising both listed and private companies across various sectors, as well as top-tier investment banks.
TEAM OF THE YEAR ENERGY
Watson Farley & Williams
A leading firm in the energy sector, known for its comprehensive legal expertise in areas like M&A, finance, regulation, and litigation, advising energy companies on a wide range of matters. It plays a key role in the Spanish market, driving national and international investments through significant energy transactions.
LAWYER OF THE YEAR ENERGY
Antonio Bañón – Squire Patton Boggs
A highly skilled lawyer with over a decade of experience, recognized for his expertise in energy and regulatory law, particularly in the renewable sector. He has successfully led international projects attracting top-tier clients.
TEAM OF THE YEAR EU & COMPETITION
KPMG Abogados
The ability of the professionals in delivering strategic solutions in intricate matters underscores their role as key players in the industry, providing invaluable support to their clients in both domestic and European legal arenas.
LAWYER OF THE YEAR EU & COMPETITION
Manuel Martinho Lopes Rocha – SRS Legal
Despite the age, the professional has extensive experience in Competition and EU Law, contributing to the recognition of his department in the market. He has played a key role in significant competition cases and has focused on transposing EU directives into Portuguese law.
TEAM OF THE YEAR FINTECH
Pérez-Llorca
Over the past 12 months, the law firm has been involved in several strategic operations. Thanks to its lawyers’ expertise, the firm’s fintech practice is now regarded as one of the most reliable in the industry.
LAWYER OF THE YEAR FINTECH
Isabel Pinheiro Torres – Abreu Advogados
The professional, with over 10 years of experience, is specialized in financial regulatory law and financing transactions. She has coordinated important deals with clients seeking to provide its services related to crypto assets, blockchain and crowdfunding.
TEAM OF THE YEAR INFRASTRUCTURE & CONSTRUCTIONS
Ambar Partners
The professionals have demonstrated exceptional skill in handling complex projects, consistently delivering innovative legal solutions. Their client-focused approach and deep industry knowledge have positioned them as trusted advisors in the sector.
LAWYER OF THE YEAR INFRASTRUCTURE & CONSTRUCTIONS
Pedro Condês Tomaz – Cerejeira Namora, Marinho Falcão
The professional has demonstrated exceptional leadership in high-value infrastructure and construction projects, overseeing complex negotiations and legal solutions for major developments.
TEAM OF THE YEAR INSOLVENCY & RESTRUCTURING
CS’Associados
The legal team has demonstrated exceptional expertise in navigating complex insolvency matters, providing strategic guidance in high stakes restructuring and litigation scenarios.
LAWYER OF THE YEAR INSOLVENCY & RESTRUCTURING
Ana Carpintero Gómez – Kepler—Karst
The professional is a skilled restructuring expert, she has played a pivotal role in high-profile insolvency and debt restructuring cases, contributing to the successful resolution of complex corporate financial challenges.
TEAM OF THE YEAR INSURANCE
PRA – Raposo, Sá Miranda & Associados – Sociedade de Advogados
The team is composed by expert individuals already affirmed in the field; they have consistently expressed the excellence of their advisory in navigating intricate legal issues.
LAWYER OF THE YEAR INSURANCE
Miguel Duarte Santos – SPS ADVOGADOS
The professional has demonstrated exceptional expertise in banking, finance, and capital markets, he has played a key role in expanding the firm’s insurance regulatory practice, securing significant new clients and leading critical governance overhauls.
TEAM OF THE YEAR IP
ELZABURU
The team has demonstrated remarkable expertise in managing complex projects across various fields, from legal advisory on international film productions to strategic guidance on AI usage and the protection of an extensive brand portfolio. The lawyers represent the highest excellence in the IP expertise.
LAWYER OF THE YEAR IP
Mariana Bernardino Ferreira – BMA – Baptista, Monteverde & Associados
The professional has demonstrated exceptional leadership and legal expertise by successfully managing complex copyright infringement and software preservation cases, securing favorable outcomes and negotiating settlements.
TEAM OF THE YEAR TMT
Travassos, Albuquerque & Associados – Sociedade de Advogados
The lawyers have been providing innovative and comprehensive legal solutions across technology, media, and telecommunications. The team has consistently delivered successful outcomes, solidifying its reputation as a leader in this field.
LAWYER OF THE YEAR TMT
Celia Bouzas González – Bird & Bird
With over a decade of experience, the lawyer has excelled in providing legal counsel on privacy, data protection, and technology matters across several industries. In the past year, she has led key digital law projects, negotiating significant contracts related to data centers and technology licenses.
TEAM OF THE YEAR LABOUR
Augusta Abogados
The law firm has played a key role in negotiating complex labour agreements, including the first equality plan for a major company. The team’s expertise has helped clients successfully navigate intricate labour and employment issues.
LAWYER OF THE YEAR LABOUR
Eduardo Castro Marques – Dower Law Firm
The lawyer has demonstrated exceptional leadership in labour law, managing complex legal proceedings involving collective labour agreements and employment disputes. His expertise in high-stakes cases showcases his ability to protect clients’ interests.
TEAM OF THE YEAR LIFE SCIENCES & PHARMA
Eversheds Sutherland
The team has advised high profile international pharmaceutical companies demonstrating a deep knowledge of the industry and the ability to face even the most complex challenges.
LAWYER OF THE YEAR LIFE SCIENCES & PHARMA
Xavier Frías – Osborne Clarke
Despite the age, the professional is already considered a specialist in the life sciences and healthcare sector. He has been active in several operations such as commercial transactions, trade practices and antitrust issues.
TEAM OF THE YEAR LITIGATION
Antas Da Cunha Ecija & Associados
The law firm team is composed by exceptional litigators, that were involved in complex cases representing the interests of strategic clients against major players.
LAWYER OF THE YEAR LITIGATION
Luis López Alonso – Gómez-Acebo & Pombo
During the last period, the professional has been advising important clients from various sectors leading some of the most strategic cases in the Iberian market. He is highly regarded by several market players that considered him a very capable advisor.
TEAM OF THE YEAR M&A
Pérez-Llorca
The corporate team is formed by young dynamic professionals, highly appreciated by the market for their business-oriented advice and the dedication in to delivering top-tier legal solutions in complex matters.
LAWYER OF THE YEAR M&A
Tiago Valente de Oliveira – CMS Portugal
The professional contributed invaluably to facilitating company transactions and corporate restructuring. His commitment to excellence and strategic insights are shaping the future of the practice.
TEAM OF THE YEAR M&A MID-MARKET
CECA MAGÁN ABOGADOS
During the last 12 months, the corporate team expressed enthusiasm and dedication, emerging through the mergers and acquisitions landscape. With an agile approach, the professionals were able to handle complex transactions for high profile companies.
LAWYER OF THE YEAR M&A MID MARKET
Guillermo Bueno Casanovas – Chevez Ruiz Zamarripa
The professional has proven to be a capable leader, contributing to the expansion project of the firm in Europe. His expertise spans a wide range of complex M&A transactions including acquisitions of shares and assets of private and listed companies.
TEAM OF THE YEAR PRIVATE EQUITY
Addleshaw Goddard
With a deep bench of specialized lawyers and a significant market presence, the law firm has advised on over €10 billion in fund structures. Thanks to an outstanding client portfolio, including top private equity funds, the law firm is undoubtedly a leader in the sector.
LAWYER OF THE YEAR PRIVATE EQUITY
Mafalda Almeida Carvalho – CCSL Advogados
The lawyer has expressed her leadership in advising on innovative investments and complex cross-border transactions, particularly in search funds and venture capital. She expressed her expertise in the field solidifying the firm reputation.
TEAM OF THE YEAR PUBLIC LAW
Sérvulo & Associados
The law firm’s public law team consistently handles some of Portugal’s most complex and innovative public law projects, gaining recognition for its expertise across key sectors like healthcare, energy, and infrastructure.
LAWYER OF THE YEAR PUBLIC LAW
José Daniel González Torres – BROSETA
The lawyer has excelled in leading public law advisory for major infrastructure projects, his recent work includes coordinating legal strategies for high-profile clients in the public and private sectors, solidifying his reputation in urban planning, public contracts, and environmental law.
TEAM OF THE YEAR REAL ESTATE
Vasconcelos Advogados
The real estate team has demonstrated exceptional expertise in managing complex, cross-border transactions, playing a key role in high-value developments across Portugal. Their work covers diverse sectors from luxury hotels to large-scale residential projects.
LAWYER OF THE YEAR REAL ESTATE
Francisco Jiménez Alarcón – Dentons
The professional has coordinated large-scale logistics portfolios and landmark residential developments. His role in these deals highlights his ability to navigate complex legal challenges, from negotiation to due diligence.
TEAM OF THE YEAR STARTUP
EJASO
The team of skilled lawyers offers expert advice on various transactions in the venture capital and investment sector, playing a vital role in structuring complex deals and facilitating successful outcomes for clients.
LAWYER OF THE YEAR STARTUP
Carlos Gerpe – FILS
The lawyer possesses extensive experience in M&A transactions and corporate matters, having assisted numerous clients. In the past year, he has successfully advised many of Spain’s leading start-ups and venture capital firms.
TEAM OF THE YEAR TAX
KPMG Abogados
The law firm’s professionals have been involved in complex tax regulations, particularly regarding EU law and its implications. Their impressive track record has positioned them as leaders in this challenging area of law.
LAWYER OF THE YEAR TAX
Ricardo García-Borregón – Ashurst
The professional is well-recognized in tax planning for national and international clients. His expertise includes the tax implications of M&A, restructuring, real estate investments, NPL portfolio acquisitions, and debt refinancing.
TEAM OF THE YEAR WHITE COLLAR CRIME
Ospina Abogados
The team of dedicated lawyers focuses on delivering exceptional legal support while specializing in all aspects of criminal law. They provide extensive national and international litigation services, building a reputation as a top law firm.
BEST PRACTICE TAX FAMILY BUSINESS
Karol Gallardo Sotero – mavens
The lawyer has extensive experience advising private clients and corporations on wealth management, family businesses, and international tax planning. This year she successfully managed complex deals for family businesses and high-net-worth individuals.
BEST PRACTICE TAX ADVISORY
Carlos Saldaña Alarcón de la Lastra – ZADAL
With over a decade of experience, the lawyer has outstanding expertise in financial and tax advice, focusing on M&A, restructuring, and real estate transactions for both domestic and international clients.
BEST PRACTICE CRIMINAL LAW
Fuster-Fabra Abogados
The team is highly specialized and brings extensive experience in defending clients’ interests, while providing representation and support throughout judicial proceedings.
BEST PRACTICE LABOUR RESTRUCTURING
Álvaro Zaldívar- Simmons & Simmons
The young attorney manages cross-border working groups and key international and national projects. He specializes in labor issues related to transactional work and investigations, providing excellent client assistance.
IN-HOUSE CATEGORIES
IN-HOUSE TEAM OF THE YEAR AUTOMOTIVE & TRANSPORT
Renault España
The in-house team, recognized for its exceptional skills, has effectively handled complex transactions and played a key role in advancing digitization initiatives for Renault Group’s central services in Spain.
IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR AUTOMOTIVE & TRANSPORT
Fátima Correia da Silva – Critical TechWorks
The general counsel is well-regarded in the automotive sector for her exceptional strategic leadership and unparalleled expertise in IP and high-tech innovations, setting industry standards and encouraging innovation.
IN-HOUSE TEAM OF THE YEAR BANKS & FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS
Getnet Europe
The in-house team managed multiple transactions, with particularly significant deals helping to shape the group’s strategic direction. The team consistently showcased strong business acumen and excellent technical expertise.
IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR BANKS & FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS
Francesca Spreafico – Visa
Led by the professional, the team has been highly proactive, handling diverse matters. She guided the legal department to provide exceptional support, helping the company navigate a complex, regulated market.
IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR HEALTHCARE, LIFE SCIENCES & PHARMA
Gabriela Camuñas Caruana – Atrys
The general counsel and her team managed critical operations for their strategic importance. She specializes in domestic and international mergers and acquisitions, with a proven record of successful transactions.
IN-HOUSE TEAM OF THE YEAR ENERGY
Lightsource bp
The in-house department works thoroughly within the company, effectively managing various legal issues related to solar projects across its broad portfolio, thanks to the lawyers’ business-oriented approach.
IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR ENERGY
Gonzalo Gómez García – CEPSA
Since recently becoming head of corporate governance, this experienced professional has successfully led his team through several significant deals, earning enthusiastic praise from his colleagues.
IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR FOOD & BEVERAGE
Noemí Rodríguez Alonso – HAVI
The professional plays a key role in driving change, with a strong focus on fostering a culture of compliance within the company.
IN-HOUSE TEAM OF THE YEAR INFRASTRUCTURE & CONSTRUCTIONS
Audasa, Grupo Itínere
The in-house legal team has successfully managed a variety of strategically important transactions for the company, taking a central role in expertly coordinating all teams involved.
IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR INFRASTRUCTURE & CONSTRUCTIONS
João Santos Rodrigues – Gabriel A.S. Couto
An experienced head of national legal affairs with deep expertise across various areas of law, recognized for being practical and dedicated, as demonstrated in numerous complex operations.
IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR INSURANCE
Miguel Cancela de Abreu – Fidelidade
The young professional, guiding his team, managed a diverse array of legal issues across multiple jurisdictions. The team successfully advised on transactions that aided the company’s evolution into a multinational organization.
IN-HOUSE TEAM OF THE YEAR REAL ESTATE
idealista
The legal department advised the company on numerous complex deals, ensuring all legal aspects were thoroughly reviewed and handled by a team of exceptional and dedicated lawyers.
IN-HOUSE TEAM OF THE YEAR TMT
Lenovo
The in-house team comprises highly experienced professionals who provide specialized legal support to the group, ensuring compliance with local laws and strengthening Lenovo’s presence in the Spanish market.
IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR TMT
João Augusto Teixeira – Bit2Me
The professional leads Legal and Compliance team, earning recognition in Spain’s cryptoasset sector. This year, he implemented a compliance management system, positioning the company as a global regulatory leader.
IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR TRAVEL & TOURISM
José Miguel Viana – Accor
The legal counsel advises various business units within a prominent hospitality group by specializing in commercial law and data protection. He is recognized for his in-depth legal knowledge in driving the company’s strategic goals forward.
