Laura de Rivera: “the in-house lawyer has transitioned from advisor to strategic player”
The general counsel of CaixaBank discusses the impact of AI, sustainability, and the evolving role of the in-house lawyer
by mercedes galán
With a legal and financial career spanning nearly two decades, Laura de Rivera — State Attorney and current director of legal department at CaixaBank — leads a team of almost 200 professionals in an environment of constant regulatory and technological change. In this interview with Iberian Lawyer, she reflects on how the role of in-house counsel has evolved, the challenges of digitalisation in the legal sector, and the importance of diversity within organisations.
Did you always know you wanted to be a lawyer?
Not at all. As a child, I was fascinated by engineering, especially large infrastructures like bridges and ports. However, over time, I realized I was drawn to interpersonal relationships and the legal structures governing them — both between individuals and companies. Although there were no lawyers in my immediate family, there was always an interest in the field, which led me to study law. Interestingly, I combined it with a master’s degree in finance, thinking I would pursue a career in the financial sector. But life has its way of guiding you, and in the end, I found my calling in the legal world, beginning my professional journey in public administration and later transitioning to the corporate sector.
How does the perception of in-house lawyers has changed within large companies?
There has been a significant shift in how in-house lawyers are perceived. We have moved from being mere advisors at the end of the decision-making process to becoming active participants in business strategy. Today, in-house lawyers are involved from the conception of a product or service, identifying potential risks and designing legal structures to mitigate them. We stopped being just legal consultants and became key decision-makers.
How is this strategic role ensured within a financial institution?
…
