Iberian Lawyer Gold Awards 2024, the winners
The winners of the Iberian Lawyer 2024 Gold Awards were announced during the gala ceremony held at the Wellington hotel.
In their eighth edition, the Gold Awards recognized, once again, the excellence amongst in-house professionals in Spain and Portugal.
The Gold Awards have been granted considering the most important sectors of activity in the economy, distinguishing in each category the best legal team and the most outstanding lawyer of the year.
The winners were the following:
IN-HOUSE TEAM OF THE YEAR
Santander España
The in-house team at the European Bank with the highest market capitalization represents a stellar combination of legal knowledge and business insight. Renowned for their vast experience, this team is highly regarded as exceptionally skilled within the industry.
IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR
Pablo Blanco Pérez – Repsol
The strategic legal guidance of the general counsel has been essential in navigating the intricate regulatory landscape this year. Moreover, the legal department reached a significant milestone by becoming one of the first in Spain to incorporate a generative AI platform into its operations.
THOUGHT LEADERSHIP
Julia A. García Navarro – Transfesa Logistics
Experienced lawyer with over 25 years in corporate and regulatory affairs, she is recognized for her strategic approach and exceptional interpersonal abilities in managing complex legal issues.
IN-HOUSE TEAM OF THE YEAR AUTOMOTIVE & TRANSPORT
in collaboration with Squire Patton Boggs
SEAT
The in-house department operates comprehensively within the company’s activities, actively supporting its growth journey amid a challenging external environment and competitive landscape.
IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR AUTOMOTIVE & TRANSPORT
in collaboration with Squire Patton Boggs
Teresa Minguez Diaz – Porsche Ibérica
Under the guidance of the professional, the team manages domestic and international transactions in legal, compliance, and data protection, ensuring smooth navigation through complex business processes and regulations.
IN-HOUSE TEAM OF THE YEAR BANKS & FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS
BBVA
Showing strong expertise, the team’s recent performance has played an important role in driving the company’s success and solidifying its position in a competitive market.
IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR BANKS & FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS
Silvia Madrid – UniCredit
The professional manages legal, compliance, and data protection areas, leveraging her extensive experience to effectively resolve complex legal issues while demonstrating proactive problem-solving skills.
IN-HOUSE TEAM OF THE YEAR CHEMICAL & PHARMACEUTICAL
in collaboration with Eversheds Sutherland
Pfizer
The team excels in efficiency and professionalism with clients and colleagues worldwide, using a forward-thinking approach that integrates technology to enhance efficiency and focus on strategic counsel.
IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR CHEMICAL & PHARMACEUTICAL
in collaboration with Eversheds Sutherland
Ana Bayó Busta – Bayer
A distinguished general counsel in the pharmaceutical market, celebrated for dynamic expertise, a committed approach, strong leadership, and a history of proven success.
IN-HOUSE TEAM OF THE YEAR CONSUMER GOODS MANUFACTURING
Henkel Ibérica
The legal team demonstrated a seamless blend of legal expertise and business priorities in a highly regulated market, skilfully addressing various issues and launching a series of important initiatives.
IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR CONSUMER GOODS MANUFACTURING
Alexandra Reis – Tabaqueira / Philip Morris International
A strategic expert who combines extensive legal expertise with sharp business acumen to deliver insightful guidance, earning high praise from peers over the past year.
IN-HOUSE TEAM OF THE YEAR E-COMMERCE & RETAIL
in collaboration with CECA MAGÁN ABOGADOS
IKEA
The in-house department consists of experienced lawyers adept at managing complex operations. This team showcases strong business insight and possesses exceptional technical expertise
IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR E-COMMERCE & RETAIL
in collaboration with CECA MAGÁN ABOGADOS
Patricio Morenés Hoyos – Grupo Dia
Specializing in commercial, corporate, and real estate law, the lawyer has made significant contributions to the In-house team’s leadership in numerous transactions throughout this year.
IN-HOUSE TEAM OF THE YEAR ENERGY
in collaboration with Ambar Partners
Iberdrola
The team has showcased exceptional skills in developing innovative solutions and promoting sustainable practices, establishing itself as a leader in the renewable energy industry
IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR ENERGY
in collaboration with Ambar Partners
Pepe Téllez Menchén – Moeve
The lawyer showcases exceptional leadership and commitment, leveraging extensive experience to provide legal advice in commercial and corporate law and oversee corporate reorganizations
IN-HOUSE TEAM OF THE YEAR ENTERTAINMENT & SPORTS
in collaboration with Cerejeira Namora, Marinho Falcão
Real Madrid C.F.
The In-house team, known for managing various complex transactions, is distinguished by its exceptional combination of technical skills and business insight.
IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR ENTERTAINMENT & SPORTS
in collaboration with Cerejeira Namora, Marinho Falcão
María José López Lorenzo – LALIGA
The expert brings a wealth of legal experience and leads the team that advises on all organizational projects, providing essential services to various departments while addressing their specific needs.
IN-HOUSE TEAM OF THE YEAR FASHION, LUXURY, DESIGN
Bimba y Lola
The in-house legal team effectively managed various strategically vital transactions for the company, offering personalized legal counsel that leverages the lawyers’ business-focused approach.
IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR FASHION, LUXURY, DESIGN
Carlos Sanz Mallo – El Corte Inglés
With over 20 years of experience, the professional is now a leading force behind the dynamic restructuring of the group’s legal services, lea impactful changes and innovative solutions.
IN-HOUSE TEAM OF THE YEAR FOOD & BEVERAGE
The HEINEKEN Company
In a highly regulated market, the legal team showcased an excellent balance of legal knowledge and business needs, effectively navigating a diverse array of challenges.
IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR FOOD & BEVERAGE
John Rigau – PepsiCo
The general counsel’s expertise in managing complex cases has earned him recognition from peers and the industry, establishing his reputation as a leading figure in the in-house legal field.
IN-HOUSE TEAM OF THE YEAR INFRASTRUCTURE & CONSTRUCTIONS
Acciona
The in-house department is composed of a dedicated and skilled team of expert lawyers who have been pivotal in managing numerous prominent infrastructure operations forward this year.
IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR INFRASTRUCTURE & CONSTRUCTIONS
Isabel Fernandes – Grupo Visabeira
The professional expertly guides the legal department to ensure alignment with the group’s strategic vision. Her inspiring leadership empowers the team to navigate complex legal landscapes and drive innovative initiatives.
IN-HOUSE TEAM OF THE YEAR INSURANCE
MAPFRE
The in-house department plays a vital role in the company’s operations, expertly navigating a broad spectrum of legal challenges. Their commitment and operational efficiency ensure that they deliver exceptional counsel with precision and impact.
IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR INSURANCE
Isabel Lage – Fidelidade
She has extensive experience in delivering daily global legal counsel. She handles complex legal issues while effectively managing her team’s workload in the face of changing economic conditions.
IN-HOUSE TEAM OF THE YEAR REAL ESTATE
AccorInvest
The team adapts well to changing client needs and the business environment, implementing innovative strategies to boost legal service efficiency and quality.
IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR TEAM REAL ESTATE
Andrea Viale – idealista
This legal expert boasts over 15 years of experience and a comprehensive set of technical skills. She provides exceptional legal counsel and insight to all companies within the group across various areas of law.
IN-HOUSE TEAM OF THE YEAR SERVICES & CONSULTANCY
Accenture Portugal
The legal team excels in managing complex transactions, demonstrating their proficiency in intricate deals. Their innovative mindset, digital skills, and business acumen enable them to deliver tailored and effective solutions.
IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR SERVICES & CONSULTANCY
Rita Branquinho Lobo – Novabase
With extensive experience and excellent business acumen, the professional has directed the legal department in multiple strategic operations across diverse practices in the past 12 months.
IN-HOUSE TEAM OF THE YEAR HIGH TECH & TELECOM
in collaboration with Abreu Advogados
HP
The legal department is distinguished by its business-focused approach, with lawyers adeptly working across various areas of expertise. Under the outstanding leadership of the general counsel, the team is highly regarded in the market.
IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR HIGH TECH & TELECOM
in collaboration with Abreu Advogados
Ana Gómez Ruiz- Amadeus
Drawing on a solid background of experience and technical expertise, the lawyer has led the team in key initiatives and operations essential to the company’s growth.
IN-HOUSE TEAM OF THE YEAR PUBLISHING & MEDIA
Mediaset España
In a landmark deal for the podcast industry, the legal team of the Spanish media company successfully negotiated a strategic partnership with one of Spain’s leading podcast platforms.
IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR PUBLISHING & MEDIA
Carlos López Martín de Blas – Secuoya Content Group
With nearly 15 years of leadership, the general counsel has expertly guided the team in various areas nationally and internationally. As a recognized authority in the media and audiovisual sector, he combines legal expertise with business acumen to deliver impactful results.
IN-HOUSE TEAM OF THE YEAR TRAVEL & TOURISM
OUIGO España
The in-house department operates within the company’s activities, managing strategic operations this year. Leveraging the general counsel’s 360-degree perspective, the department delivers swift and innovative solutions.
IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR TRAVEL & TOURISM
Mariano Pérez de Cáceres – Meliá Hotels International
With many years of experience in the sector, the lawyer has developed a solid reputation for his effective leadership and in-depth knowledge, establishing himself as a respected authority in the field.
IN-HOUSE TEAM OF THE YEAR COMPLIANCE
Mercan Properties
The legal team stands out for its expertise and strategic insight, employing an innovative approach to oversee corporate management for numerous companies while ensuring compliance and alignment with strategic guidelines across various jurisdictions.
IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR COMPLIANCE
João Augusto Teixeira – Bit2Me
The professional heads the legal and compliance team, gaining recognition in Spain’s cryptoasset sector. This year, under his leadership, the team successfully managed strategic operations, enhancing its reputation in regulatory compliance across Europe and globally.
PROFESSIONAL COMMITMENT
Eva Argilés – Applus+
She leads the group’s legal services, managing operations in over 70 countries and guiding a team of in-house counsels in 9 nations. Her extensive experience and exceptional leadership drive effective legal support on a global scale.
DIVERSITY & INCLUSION
Clara Cerdán Molina – Solarig
As General Counsel, she exemplifies integrity and an unwavering dedication to compliance. Besides this role, she is also a founding member of Women in a Legal World (WLW), dedicated to advancing gender equality in the legal field.
BEST PRACTICE NPLs
Intrum
The in-house team stands out for the experience in managing complex matters and the deep knowledge of the NPLs sector. The lawyers operate with the purpose to bring value to the company, with a structure duly adapted to mitigate risks and to support business.
