An interview with Maria Jose Van Morlegan, Legal and Regulatory Director, Edenor in Argentina.
How would you describe the state of the GC Community in your region? How has it changed since you first moved in-house?
The GC community in my region has evolved significantly, especially in terms of diversity, inclusion, and collaboration. When I first moved in-house, leadership spaces were predominantly male-dominated, and while there were women in legal roles, their presence in senior leadership was limited. Over time, I’ve seen a shift – more women are stepping into GC roles, mentorship programs have become more structured, and there’s a greater emphasis on building inclusive policies.
Additionally, the legal landscape has become more dynamic, with GCs playing a strategic role in business decisions rather than just focusing on compliance and risk management. This shift has also encouraged more women to take on leadership positions, breaking traditional barriers in the legal profession.
Why is expanding your network important to you?
Expanding my network is essential because collaboration and shared experiences lead to better decision-making and professional growth. Engaging with professionals from diverse backgrounds and experiences helps me become a better General Counsel. Legal issues are rarely one-dimensional – they intersect with business strategy, regulatory trends, cultural considerations, and evolving societal expectations. By connecting with a broad range of peers, I gain new insights that challenge my assumptions, refine my approach to problem-solving, and ultimately make me a more effective legal leader.
Different perspectives – whether from GCs in other industries, senior executives, or legal professionals from diverse regions – help me anticipate risks, adapt to change, and approach challenges with a more holistic mindset. For example, discussions with peers from tech-driven industries might highlight innovative approaches to compliance automation, while conversations with GCs in highly regulated sectors can offer valuable strategies for navigating complex legal frameworks.
What kinds of connections or discussions would be most valuable to you?
The most valuable discussions for me are those that push me beyond my own industry lens – whether it’s about corporate governance, crisis management, ethical leadership, or emerging trends like AI in legal operations. By continuously broadening my perspective, I can drive better legal and business decisions, foster a more inclusive corporate culture, and contribute to strategic initiatives that have a lasting impact.
What do you want to achieve by collaborating with other GCs and senior in-house lawyers?
Collaboration with other GCs and senior in-house lawyers is a powerful tool for driving change, especially in advancing women’s leadership in the legal field. I want to contribute to building a more inclusive, supportive legal community where mentorship and sponsorship for women are prioritised.
Are there specific topics, challenges, or experiences you’d like to share or learn more about?
Key topics I’d like to explore are:
• Crisis management and leadership – learning from peers about handling legal crises, high-stakes negotiations, and corporate risk while maintaining ethical leadership.
• Tech and innovation in law – understanding how AI, automation, and regulatory tech are shaping the future of in-house legal work and how women leaders can leverage these advancements.
Ultimately, I believe that by fostering strong peer relationships, sharing best practices, and supporting each other’s growth, we can create a legacy of empowered leaders in the legal profession – not just for today, but for the next generation of GCs and in-house lawyers.
