My Professional Journey in Corporate Law and Entrepreneurship
I am MARCIO BARBERO, and my work in the field of corporate law and entrepreneurship in Brazil has been both a rewarding and challenging journey. With a solid academic background and a strategic vision, I have established myself as a professional who goes beyond the mere application of the law, delivering innovative and effective solutions for companies and investors. This account is part of the mentorship I share with young attorneys, offering insights and reflections for their professional development.
My Interdisciplinary Background
With academic training in Law, Business Administration, and Accounting, I began working in corporate law decades ago, always maintaining a broad business-oriented perspective. This combination of knowledge has enabled me not only to understand the theoretical aspects of legislation but also to address the practical needs of companies. As both an attorney and an entrepreneur for over 30 years, this interdisciplinary background allows me to adopt a strategic approach that goes beyond the simple application of the law.
The Turnaround of a Sugar and Ethanol Company
Among the projects that have marked my career, I highlight the restructuring of a company in the sugar and ethanol sector as one of the most challenging and rewarding. The plant had been abandoned and was facing serious financial and operational difficulties. We implemented a robust strategy, both legally and from a business standpoint, to transform the company into a functional operation. It required speed and precision, but the results were worthwhile: we restored the plant’s viability and generated a positive impact on the local economy.
My Experience in Public Bidding and Federal Law 8.666
Another significant aspect of my professional path is my extensive experience in public procurement and in the application of Federal Law No. 8.666/93. Over the years, I have worked on numerous public bidding procedures, gaining a deep understanding of the legal and operational requirements of this segment. This expertise has enabled me to provide effective solutions to companies seeking to operate in the public sector, ensuring legal compliance while maximizing their chances of success.
The Future of Corporate Law and Artificial Intelligence
I believe that the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) will revolutionize legal practice, particularly in corporate law. AI has the potential to enhance case law analysis, legal drafting, and legal analytics. It will bring greater precision and assist judges and practitioners in making data-driven decisions. The challenge for attorneys is to leverage these tools strategically while preserving the human dimension of the profession.
There may be initial resistance, especially from more traditional practitioners, but I believe acceptance will continue to grow, as the advantages of technology are undeniable. AI will not replace lawyers — it will make them more efficient.
The Importance of My Entrepreneurial Experience
My experience as an entrepreneur has shown me that understanding the practical challenges faced by companies is essential for any corporate lawyer. Corporate law is not merely about applying legislation; it requires understanding business operations and strategic needs. This interdisciplinary formation has been a significant competitive advantage throughout my career.
My Work with Distressed Assets
One of the areas I have recently explored is the distressed assets market. I see this field as a unique opportunity in Brazil, particularly given the challenging economic environment faced by many companies. The restructuring of distressed assets requires a specialized approach that combines law, finance, and strategic management. It is an area with strong growth potential.
Advice to Young Attorneys
For young professionals wishing to pursue a career in corporate law, I recommend building a solid and interdisciplinary foundation. It is essential to specialize in areas such as mergers and acquisitions, contracts, and corporate restructuring. Additionally, seek knowledge in business administration, accounting, and technology. The market is demanding, and a broad perspective makes a significant difference.
Experience in public procurement and in matters related to Federal Law No. 8.666/93 is also an excellent specialization path, as it allows attorneys to work in a relevant and challenging segment of the legal market. With dedication and preparation, it is possible to stand out and deliver substantial value to clients.
My Perspective on Legal Education in Brazil
I believe legal education in Brazil must evolve to incorporate practical and interdisciplinary skills. Law alone is not sufficient to address the complexities of the modern world. Universities should integrate disciplines that foster a comprehensive and practice-oriented approach.
Conclusion
My professional journey demonstrates how the combination of a solid academic background and an entrepreneurial vision can lead to a successful career in corporate law. The restructuring of a company in the sugar and ethanol sector and my focus on promising areas such as distressed assets reflect my capacity for innovation and leadership. Looking ahead, I believe that specialization, interdisciplinarity, and the adoption of technologies such as Artificial Intelligence will be fundamental to transforming the legal sector in the years to come.
Barbero Advogados is a specialized law firm, and we are available to discuss these matters and explore how we can contribute to the success of your business.
