León Velasco – DSM-Firmenich

Leon Velasco, the legal and business ethics associate director for the LATAM region at DSM-Firmenich, navigates complex legal intricacies and evolving business dynamics with expertise. His journey is marked by a commitment to excellence, evident in his role as the legal director overseeing all Mexican operations.

Leon Velasco | DSM-Firmenich | Legal & Business Ethics Associate Director, LATAM

This includes managing three strategically positioned plants in Monterrey, Guadalajara, and Toluca, as well as corporate offices and innovation laboratories. Velasco’s responsibilities extend beyond Mexico, as he also manages legal operations in Central America and Colombia, demonstrating his adaptability and proficiency across diverse regulatory environments.

The merger of DSM and Firmenich in May 2023 presented Velasco with new challenges and opportunities. In this transformative period, his role expanded significantly to align capabilities and foster synergies between the two legacy companies. Particularly noteworthy is his focus on ensuring compliance through both legacy business units, leveraging both entities’ combined strengths to drive growth and innovation.

As Velasco continues to steer DSM-Firmenich through this period of change, his leadership remains steadfast and visionary. Velasco’s ability to adapt, innovate, and lead by example positions him as a driving force behind the company’s success in the LATAM region and beyond.

“Excellence is not just a goal; it’s our constant pursuit in every legal intricacy and business evolution. Through collaboration, adaptability, and a dedication to surpassing expectations, we navigate the dynamic landscape of legal compliance and business growth,” Velasco says.

Navigating legal complexities

Velasco’s proactive approach is evident in managing regulated products in Mexico. Given the highly regulated nature of this sector, Velasco ensures vigilant monitoring and auditing of internal processes to comply with evolving government requirements. Successfully navigating internal mergers to adhere to labor reforms, such as the outsourcing labor reform in 2019, underscores Velasco’s adeptness at managing legal complexities without disrupting business operations or employee welfare.

Velasco is poised to lead several important projects for the rest of 2024 and beyond. One of the most significant endeavors on his agenda is the carve-out of the Animal Nutrition and Health Business from the Group. This undertaking, spanning 2024 and 2025, presents significant legal challenges, particularly in Mexico.

“I am confident that my expertise will play a vital role in executing the carve-out and spin-off in alignment with global directives,” Velasco says.

In addition to the carve-out project, Velasco spearheads initiatives to leverage AI tools for enhanced legal efficiency and effectiveness. Leveraging AI tools for contract management and creation has empowered the legal team to deliver faster results and emerge as true business partners.

Velasco’s journey at DSM-Firmenich exemplifies a commitment to excellence, proactive risk management, and strategic leadership in navigating legal complexities within a dynamic business landscape. Velasco remains committed to innovation and resilience as he charts new territories and drives impactful projects.

“In legal compliance, proactive vigilance is key. By staying ahead of regulatory changes and embracing innovative tools like AI, we ensure seamless operations and uphold the highest standards of integrity,” Velasco says.

Leading with collaboration

Velasco exemplifies a leadership approach rooted in collaboration and teamwork. Leading by example, Velasco fosters a culture of cooperation and mutual support among his team members as they navigate intricate legal landscapes. Despite the inherent challenges of working with a lean team, Velasco adeptly taps into the diverse expertise of external partners to bolster internal capabilities, ensuring comprehensive legal support across the organization.

At the helm of Firmenich’s merger with DSM, Velasco orchestrates cross-functional collaboration to ensure smooth business continuity. He spearheads efforts to seamlessly integrate new business units, emphasizing the criticality of legal compliance throughout the transition. Through strategic planning and effective communication, Velasco empowers his team to navigate regulatory reforms, particularly in labor laws, and swiftly adapt to evolving legal requirements.

In addressing recruitment and retention hurdles, Velasco places great value on talent development and fostering a sense of purpose within his team. By championing continuous learning and professional growth, he ensures team members feel supported and motivated to deliver their best. Leveraging external partnerships, Velasco builds a network of trusted advisors, enabling his team to access specialized expertise and resources as needed.

As a leader, Velasco prioritizes collaboration and transparent communication, creating an environment where diverse viewpoints are valued, and innovation flourishes. Through his effective leadership and commitment to teamwork, he navigates challenges with resilience and determination, ensuring that DSM-Firmenich remains a leader in legal compliance and ethical business practices across the LATAM region.

Foundations of excellence

Velasco’s journey to success is marked by constant growth and dedication. Graduating from Escuela Libre de Derecho, he fortified his legal acumen with a master’s degree in administrative law from the Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, laying a foundation for his career. Over 16 years, Velasco has navigated diverse industries, including automotive, construction, water services, and consulting, honing his expertise in legal matters and compliance at esteemed firms like SUEZ, Hella (now FORVIA), and Deloitte.

Since January 2006, Velasco has transitioned through various in-house roles, showcasing versatility in corporate law complexities. Joining Firmenich in February 2020, he swiftly made a mark as a legal and compliance senior manager, distinguished by his ethical practices and exceptional performance. Through dedication and consistent results, Velasco became the legal and business ethics associate director for LATAM at DSM-Firmenich in May 2022, underscoring his value addition to business and commitment to excellence.

Beyond professional milestones, Velasco finds fulfillment in fatherhood, cherishing moments with his three-year-old daughter and two-month-old son. His passion for outdoor pursuits, particularly hiking, mirrors his professional journey’s resilience and determination. A memorable five-day trek in Peru, culminating in the majestic Machu Picchu, epitomizes Velasco’s approach to personal and professional challenges—preparation, consistency, focus, and unwavering perseverance.

“Just as conquering Andean peaks demands resilience, I approach my career with the same resolve, steadfast in the belief that dedication and perseverance are the cornerstones of achieving one’s goals,” Velasco says.