Professionally, she has to make complex decisions, “but I’ve never wanted to lose empathy since I started my career from scratch.” She says that her two children, Sebastián and Fátima, remind her every day why all the effort is worthwhile. She likes to think that beyond titles, what’s important is leaving a positive impact on the people you work with.
Voices of Law: Dialogue with societies and general community of Latin America We spoke with Alonso Gómez about his evolution and career as general counsel and head of Institutional Affairs at Braskem Idesa Mexico, as well as the challenges and opportunities facing legal management in a constantly changing business and regulatory environment.
“When I arrived, the challenge was to understand a large-scale industrial business and navigate a complicated regulatory environment. Today, more than just a lawyer, I feel part of the company’s purpose: to build something that has a real impact on the country. I have learned to balance the technical with the human, the legal with the institutional.”
What skills do general counsels need to develop?
Listen, read the context, and use sound judgment. Not everything is in the books or the clauses. A good general counsel needs sensitivity to understand people and the courage to say what needs to be said, even when it’s unpopular.
What are the current challenges for general counsel and legal departments?
Adapting to constant change. The rules of the game are shifting rapidly: political, social, economic, regulatory, technological, reputational. The challenge is to remain calm and make decisions that protect the company without hindering its evolution. It’s also about building a team that trusts its own judgment.
How do you coordinate communication with other areas to ensure legal and commercial alignment?
With confidence and transparency. It’s pointless to show up at the end with a list of “it can’t be done.” From the beginning, we aim to build solutions together with other departments, clearly explaining the risks and always with a “how can we” mindset.
What have been the biggest legal challenges in recent years and how have you overcome them?
The Mexican energy environment has been an enormous challenge. We’ve had to renegotiate, rethink projects, and build dialogue under immense pressure. We’ve overcome it by working as a team, understanding the interests of all parties, and without losing sight of business stability.
How do you think artificial intelligence will change risk management and compliance?
It will transform the way we work. But ultimately, AI doesn’t replace judgment. What will set a lawyer apart won’t be their ability to process information, but their ability to interpret and decide with human understanding.
What are your priorities today in terms of learning and best practices?
Learn to unlearn. Don’t cling to the idea that things should be done the way they used to be. Listen to new generations, new ideas, and maintain constant curiosity. That’s what keeps you relevant.
What measures has Braskem Idesa implemented to integrate sustainability, and how have you contributed?
Sustainability is no longer just another topic; it’s the foundation of our business. From the Puerto México Chemical Terminal to our social programs in Coatzacoalcos, we strive to generate shared value. From a legal and institutional standpoint, it’s my responsibility to ensure that every step is aligned with ethical, environmental, and local development principles.
What challenges and opportunities do you see in the sector by the end of 2025?
The biggest challenge remains regulatory certainty, but there is an enormous opportunity: Mexico can play a leading role in the energy transition and in integration with North America. Those who know how to act with vision and responsibility will be one step ahead.
In short…
What’s the smartest thing anyone has ever said to you (and who said it)? “Everything passes, the good and the bad.” My mom used to tell me that. Who has influenced your career the most? My mother, may she rest in peace. She was an example of life, strength, and resilience. A book? [En pocas palabras…1] “Doctors of Body and Soul” by Taylor Caldwell. [/En pocas palabras…1] [En pocas palabras…2] A sport? [En pocas palabras…2] [En pocas palabras…4]Boxing: It teaches you to endure and think while taking blows.[/En pocas palabras…4] [En pocas palabras…5] A song? [/En pocas palabras…5] [En pocas palabras…7]Champagne Supernova, by the best band of all time, Oasis.[/En pocas palabras…7] [En pocas palabras…8] If you weren’t a lawyer, you would be…? [/En pocas palabras…8] [En pocas palabras…0]A historian or journalist.[/En pocas palabras…0] [En pocas palabras…1] Your favorite food? [/En pocas palabras…1] [En pocas palabras…3]Tacos al pastor.[/En pocas palabras…3] [En pocas palabras…4] A childhood memory? [En pocas palabras…4] [En pocas palabras…6]Boxing Saturdays with my dad, and I’d sleep over in his room with my mom and dad.[/En pocas palabras…6] [En pocas palabras…7] What puts you in a bad mood? [/En pocas palabras…7] [En pocas palabras…9]Breaking your word.[/En pocas palabras…9] A key to success? Being consistent. What inspires you? My mother, her strength. [¿Qué es lo que más disfrutas?] What do you enjoy the most? [¿Qué es lo que más disfrutas?] Being with my wife Monica and my children, Sebastian and Fatima.
