The Latin American Lawyer Energy & Infrastructure Awards 2024, the winners
The winners of The Latin American Lawyer Energy & Infrastructure Awards 2024 were announced during the gala ceremony held at the Tivoli Mofarrej Hotel in São Paulo, on 11th December 2024.
The Energy & Infrastructure Awards recognized the excellence among the Latin American professionals active in this area.
The winners are the following:
PRIVATE PRACTICE CATEGORIES
LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR
Pinheiro Neto Advogados
The law firm has been integral to major energy and infrastructure projects, with its lawyers known for precise, timely advice and a global perspective. Also, it offers expert guidance and representation to both local and international clients.
LAWYER OF THE YEAR
Giovani Loss – Mattos Filho
The lawyer’s practice is focused on energy and oil & gas, specifically handling intricate M&A and capital markets deals. He is highly regarded for his deep commitment to the industry and his vast expertise in navigating regulatory challenges.
THOUGHT LEADERSHIP
Isabel Lustosa – Ulhôa Canto, Rezende e Guerra Advogados
The professional is well appreciated by the principal players of the energy sector as a skilled and reliable professional. She stands out for her management skills and flexible approach.
LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR ENERGY
Machado Meyer Advogados
The firm excels in energy consulting, legal expertise, and project financing for power generation. From energy auctions to mergers and acquisitions, and crafting vital contracts like EPC and EPCM, the firm delivers tailored solutions. It focuses on risk assessment and structuring contracts to optimize energy projects.
LAWYER OF THE YEAR ENERGY
Raphael Gomes – Lefosse
The lawyer demonstrates exceptional expertise in energy mandates, encompassing disputes, regulatory concerns, and corporate matters. He frequently handles intricate energy transactions and is recognized for his outstanding technical proficiency and strategic market insight.
LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR INFRASTRUCTURE
TozziniFreire Advogados
The team has handled complex projects and pioneered innovative structures that have set benchmarks in the legal market. The lawyers are highly respected for their expertise and work across various practice areas within the organization.
LAWYER OF THE YEAR INFRASTRUCTURE
Ana Cândida de Mello Carvalho – BMA Advogados
The lawyer is an experienced public law expert, focusing on bidding processes, contracts, public service concessions, and public-private partnerships. She has also contributed to significant infrastructure projects in various sectors.
LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR FINANCE
Simpson Thacher & Bartlett
The team has a prominent presence in the Brazilian market, with expertise in cross-border M&A and international capital markets. They are known for their quick response and efficient approach.
LAWYER OF THE YEAR FINANCE
Maria Juliana Saa Hoyos – Holland & Knight
The lawyer specializes in project and structured finance in Colombia, focusing on energy and infrastructure. She has extensive experience in drafting and negotiating financing and project documents for energy and infrastructure developments in Latin America.
LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR PROJECT FINANCE
Cescon, Barrieu, Flesch & Barreto Advogados
The firm has been involved in some of the country’s most innovative and significant project financing structures, handling major transactions across infrastructure, energy, and utilities sectors. The team works closely with other departments to provide clients with comprehensive advice.
LAWYER OF THE YEAR PROJECT FINANCE
Enrique González Calvillo – Pérez-Llorca México
The lawyer, with more than 36 years of experience, is a recognized expert in cross-border transactions. His areas of specialization include energy, power generation, project finance, M&A, joint ventures, and international commercial arbitration.
LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR M&A ENERGY
Trench Rossi Watanabe
The firm stands out for its team of highly skilled lawyers, each with extensive professional experience both in Brazil and internationally. Their M&A practice is known for its remarkable efficiency, strong market knowledge, and client-focused approach.
LAWYER OF THE YEAR M&A ENERGY
Alexandre R. Chequer – Tauil & Chequer Advogados in association with Mayer Brown
With over two decades of experience, the lawyer has built a strong reputation in the oil and gas sector. He advises industry clients on regulatory matters and complex M&A transactions, representing energy companies in Brazil, Latin America, Africa, and Asia.
LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR M&A INFRASTRUCTURE
Dentons Cardenas & Cardenas
Renowned for its in-depth understanding of the market and legal framework, the firm is committed to delivering exceptional client service. Its corporate and M&A team stands out for handling intricate corporate cases and providing expert counsel to clients in Colombia.
LAWYER OF THE YEAR M&A INFRASTRUCTURE
Sergio Amiel – Garrigues
A highly regarded corporate advisor in Peru, this lawyer is valued for his commercial insight and broad experience in M&A. His work spans investment agreements, shareholder arrangements, acquisitions, mergers, and sales.
LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR ADMINISTRATIVE & ENVIRONMENTAL
Tauil & Chequer Advogados in association with Mayer Brown
Highly regarded for its expertise in handling prominent environmental legal matters, this law firm is recognized for supporting key industry players and effectively representing clients in administrative proceedings.
LAWYER OF THE YEAR ADMINISTRATIVE & ENVIRONMENTAL
Simone Paschoal Nogueira – SiqueiraCastro Advogados
With over 15 years of experience in environmental law, the lawyer specializes in energy and infrastructure, particularly in environmental legislation and licensing. His expertise includes coordinating environmental studies, resolving conflicts, performing risk assessments, and offering strategic legal guidance.
LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR LITIGATION
Demarest Advogados
The firm comprises an experienced dispute resolution team excelling in arbitration and litigation. The professionals handle a variety of contractual disputes, including those related to distribution, supply, and concession agreements, while also assisting with class actions and disputes arising from projects and financial transactions.
LAWYER OF THE YEAR LITIGATION
Carlos Molina Zaldívar – Molina Ríos Abogados
With extensive experience and deep knowledge, the lawyer is recognized for effectively managing domestic arbitration disputes related to energy, construction, and infrastructure projects in Chile.
LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR ARBITRATION
Borba, Simões Barbosa, Bessone e Cristofaro – BSBC Advogados
With extensive expertise in domestic and international arbitration, the team handles a diverse array of civil and commercial issues, including corporate and contractual disputes across industries such as energy, infrastructure, construction, agribusiness, and transportation.
LAWYER OF THE YEAR ARBITRATION
Rafael Briz – Mayora & Mayora
A distinguished partner and department head, he is regarded as one of the most experienced energy law attorneys in Guatemala, offering expert legal guidance to many of the nation’s leading energy sector clients.
LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR ENERGY EFFICIENCY
Carey
The law firm has extensive experience advising on major energy projects and infrastructure, with a strong focus on energy efficiency. Its skilled team provides in-depth knowledge of the energy sector and offers valuable strategic business guidance.
LAWYER OF THE YEAR ENERGY EFFICIENCY
Rodrigo Petrasso – Toledo Marchetti Advogados
With a robust background in the field, the lawyer excels in managing innovative and complex energy projects. His expertise includes drafting and negotiating sophisticated contracts, securing financial resources, and overseeing debt restructuring processes.
LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR RENEWABLES
Davis Polk & Wardwell
Clients value the firm’s lawyers for their expertise in traditional and renewable power, transmission, the oil and gas value chain, carbon capture, infrastructure, advising major Brazilian energy companies on complex renewable energy transactions.
LAWYER OF THE YEAR RENEWABLES
Paolo Salerno – SAENERGÍA Energy Consulting Group
The lawyer brings a wealth of expertise in Energy Law, specializing in navigating complex legal, business, infrastructure, and training challenges within the dynamic electricity market and renewable energy sector.
LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR OIL & GAS
Campos Mello Advogados in cooperation with DLA Piper
The law firm has played a pivotal role in the oil and gas sector, offering expert guidance to major industry players during complex and strategic operations. Its cohesive and highly skilled team stands out for their proactive approach and exceptional problem-solving abilities.
LAWYER OF THE YEAR OIL & GAS
Paulo Valois Pires – Schmidt, Valois, Miranda, Ferreira & Agel Advogados
The lawyer combines extensive expertise in oil and gas law with a client-oriented approach and is recognized for delivering efficient solutions to complex issues.
LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR MINING
Sion Advogados
The law firm team has demonstrated remarkable proficiency in addressing the multifaceted challenges of the mining industry. The lawyers’ expertise covers regulatory mandates, compliance issues, and environmental licensing, delivering innovative and impactful solutions.
LAWYER OF THE YEAR MINING
Pedro Garcia – Veirano Advogados
The professional has handled complex deals for international clients, being particularly appreciated for his skills in M&A operations. The lawyer is well recognized for his reliability and problem-solving attitude.
LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR UTILITIES
Brigard Urrutia
Recognized for its strong expertise in a diverse range of utilities-related matters, the team is adept at managing complex operations. The professionals are highly valued for their technical excellence and versatile multidisciplinary approach.
LAWYER OF THE YEAR UTILITIES
Marina Anselmo Schneider – Mattos Filho
During the last period, the lawyer has coordinated a key privatization project in the utilities field for one of the principal energy providers of Brazil. The professional has proven to be a skilled advisor, appreciated for her impactful decision-making approach.
LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR REGULATORY
Ulhôa Canto, Rezende e Guerra Advogados
The lawyers of the law firm have demonstrated exceptional expertise in navigating regulatory frameworks within the power sector, offering strategic insights to identify and mitigate risks effectively. Their proficiency in sector regulations, combined with a practical understanding of business needs, positions them as leaders in the field.
LAWYER OF THE YEAR REGULATORY
Daniel Szyfman – Machado Meyer Advogados
The lawyer is considered by the clients and competitors a leader in the energy sector, he is vastly recognized for the excellency of his work in shaping global regulatory standards and policies in oil, gas, and energy transition projects.
LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR INNOVATION
SAENERGÍA Energy Consulting Group
The law firm is well recognized for its highly specialized advisory and consulting services that combine legal and business expertise. The team excels in guiding clients through every phase of energy projects, offering dynamic and synergistic solutions tailored to diverse needs.
LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR SUSTAINABILITY
BMA Advogados
The law firm has excelled in sustainability and environmental practices, offering integrated solutions in ESG-linked finance, decarbonization, and environmental compliance. The lawyer’s innovative and reliable advisory has consolidated the law firm’s position as a leader in driving environmentally and socially responsible initiatives.
LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR ENERGY TAX
Souto Correa Advogados
The law firm’s tax team is highly regarded for its technical expertise and client-focused approach, excelling in securing tax benefits and optimizing tax efficiency. The lawyers have been handling the legal fiscal aspects for key clients in the energy sector.
PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR ENERGY TAX
Luiz Gustavo Bichara – Bichara Advogados
The lawyer stands out as a leading expert in Brazil’s tax sector, bringing over 25 years of experience to complex transactional and non-contentious matters. His reputation in the industry and proactive approach makes him a trusted advisor in the field.
IN-HOUSE TEAM OF THE YEAR
Auren Energia
The company’s legal team has been involved in key transactions in the Latin American energy market. The lawyers are known for their vast experience, they have been capable of representing the company’s interests, managing the complexity of high-level operations.
IN-HOUSE CATEGORIES
IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR
José Eduardo Guimarães Barros – Eletrobras
The professional’s achievements highlight an exceptional ability to address intricate legal challenges, demonstrated through impactful transactions and successful litigation management. His leadership skills and technical knowledge of the field make him one of the prominent figures in the market.
IN-HOUSE TEAM OF THE YEAR ENERGY
Raízen
During the recent period, the in-house department has coordinated several transactions, very important for their strategic and economic value. The team is formed by talented professionals able to operate cohesively even under pressure, expressing a remarkable expertise in the field.
IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR ENERGY
Ana Claudia Rebello – Enel Group
The lawyer exemplifies legal excellence within the company’s dynamic legal team, contributing to transformative projects such as innovative litigation cost-reduction initiatives. Her expertise and forward-thinking approach continue to drive impactful outcomes, strengthening the team’s reputation as an industry leader.
IN-HOUSE TEAM OF THE YEAR INFRASTRUCTURE
Prysmian
The team has demonstrated outstanding expertise in crafting innovative strategies and advancing sustainable initiatives, positioning itself as a main player in the renewable energy sector.
IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR INFRASTRUCTURE
Ivan Marcondes – Andrade Gutierrez
The professional is an expert in infrastructure, concessions, and PPPs, with over 20 years of experience driving compliance and sustainable growth in multinational organizations. The lawyer has showcased expertise in corporate contracts, international arbitration, and governance, paired with exceptional leadership skills.
IN-HOUSE TEAM OF THE YEAR RENEWABLES
Recurrent Energy
During the last period, the legal team has been able to face intricate regulatory landscapes providing innovative solutions. The lawyers have successfully coordinated the legal aspects of prominent operations in the renewable industry showcasing knowledge of the sector and attention to details.
IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR RENEWABLES
María José Van Morlegan – Edenor
The professional stands out for her innovative leadership approach introducing tangible measures regarding gender equality in corporate governance. The lawyer is one of the most experienced professionals in the in-house landscape as proven by her remarkable track record.
IN-HOUSE TEAM OF THE YEAR OIL & GAS
Shell
This legal team exemplifies excellence by managing a complex dispute across Latin America and the Caribbean with skill and precision. Through seamless collaboration with internal and external stakeholders, they uphold Shell’s strategic interests in a highly competitive industry.
IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR OIL & GAS
Fabiana Molina – Ultragaz
The professional excels in aligning legal strategy with business objectives, particularly in highly regulated sectors undergoing change. Her proactive approach focuses on fostering collaboration, offering tailored training, and ensuring alignment with company values.
IN-HOUSE TEAM OF THE YEAR UTILITIES
Grupo Equatorial
The legal team has proven to be capable of managing high-stakes transactions, including the acquisition of energy distributors and renewable platforms. Through robust compliance initiatives and strategic litigation management, the team has shown its ability to adapt to legislative shifts while aligning with corporate goals, ensuring seamless support for business expansion and operational success.
IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR UTILITIES
Fernanda Rocha Campos Pogliese – Grupo Energisa
The professional has demonstrated exceptional expertise in transforming legal operations to align with strategic business goals. By spearheading innovative initiatives such as a legal efficiency management team and driving significant cost reductions, she has shown a remarkable ability to modernize processes.
N HOUSE TEAM OF THE YEAR M&A ENERGY/INFRASTRUCTURE
ACCIONA
The legal department has demonstrated exceptional expertise in renewable energy, excelling in M&A transactions across multiple global markets. The lawyers ensure efficient legal operations aligned with strategic business goals.
IN-HOUSE COUNSEL OF THE YEAR M&A ENERGY/INFRASTRUCTURE
Daniel Shem Cheng Chen – Órigo Energia
With over 20 years of experience handling complex legal matters, this professional excels in M&A, project finance, and litigation. With expertise spanning the energy sector including generation, transmission, and distribution, he is adept at transforming complex legal discussions into clear, actionable strategies to drive exceptional business results.
RENEWABLE PROJECTS DEVELOPMENT Best Practice
Ricardo Augusto Vieira – Elera Renováveis
The professional has demonstrated extensive experience in the energy sector, particularly in the development, implementation, and operation of solar and other energy projects. His expertise includes contract management, risk assessment, and regulatory compliance.
