An interview with Andre Maia, Legal Director South America at Sibelco Group in Brazil.
How would you describe the state of the GC Community in your region?
The GC community in Brazil has grown significantly in recent years, both in size and engagement. We now have several important initiatives that foster collaboration among in-house legal leaders, such as “Jurídico sem Gravatas,” “Jurídico de Saias” (an all-women group), the Latin American Corporate Counsel Association (LACCA), which brings together GCs from across the region, and the more recent arrival of the Association of Corporate Counsel (ACC). Informal networks, like WhatsApp groups for GCs, also play an important role.
How has it changed since you first moved in-house?
Having worked in-house throughout my career, I’ve witnessed a clear shift towards expanding peer networks and sharing benchmarks. Technology has played a major role in this evolution, especially with the rise of virtual meetings and platforms that emerged during the pandemic, making connection and knowledge-sharing easier than ever
Why is expanding your network important to you?
Expanding my network is essential because the role of the legal department has evolved considerably. It’s no longer seen merely as a function to be called upon in times of crisis, but increasingly as a strategic partner in business decision-making. This shift demands new skills and perspectives that are not traditionally part of a lawyer’s training.
What kinds of connections or discussions would be most valuable to you?
Building connections with other GCs and in-house counsel provides a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas, learn from different experiences, and collectively strengthen our position within organisations. Discussions around legal innovation, leadership, and the integration of legal into broader business strategy are especially meaningful to me.
What do you want to achieve by collaborating with other GCs and senior in-house lawyers?
By collaborating with other GCs and senior in-house lawyers, I hope to contribute to and benefit from a collective effort to elevate the strategic role of legal departments.
Are there specific topics, challenges, or experiences you’d like to share or learn more about?
I’m particularly interested in sharing experiences on how legal teams can proactively add value to the business, as well as learning how others are navigating this evolving landscape. Topics like legal innovation, leadership, and the integration of legal with corporate strategy are especially relevant, as they help us move beyond traditional roles and align more closely with the company’s long-term goals.
