Key Insights

1. Lawyers are Natural Problem-Solvers for Business.
Lawyers are analytical, rational, and logical, making them excellent problem-solvers. When they "unshackle" themselves from purely legal consequences (like fines or lawsuits), their problem-solving power becomes even stronger in a business context. They are also well-suited to project manage large cross-departmental initiatives, helping "make shit happen" for the business.
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2. The Path to Business Peer Status.
To be seen as a peer by the C-suite, a GC must be perceived as more than just a legal advisor. This requires deeply understanding the product, the go-to-market strategy, and the overall business motion as well as (or nearly as well as) the other executives.
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3. The GM Role is Evolving Operator and Counselor.
The General Manager role for a new international office is highly ambiguous and morphs over time. Manuel's role shifted from entity setup and administration (January-June 2023) to rapid recruiting (June-December 2023) to focusing on culture, enablement, and acting as the bridge between US and Mexico teams (January 2024 onward).
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4. Leading Without Hierarchy Requires Influence and Trust.
In a GM role where most people do not directly report to you, leadership becomes about indirect influence and trust. Manuel cultivated trust by consistently working as hard as his team, being their voice to the C-suite, and helping them cross the communication bridge with US teams.
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5. Embracing a Non-Linear Career is Fine.
The anxiety around not having a linear career path (like going straight from associate to partner) is common, but unnecessary. A non-linear path focused on learning, new experiences, and doing different things can lead to a more enriching professional and personal life, including opportunities to live and work in multiple countries.
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6. Closing Insight

Your non-linear career moves are not distractions; they are the accumulation of diverse experiences that make you a more well-rounded and indispensable executive. View every challenge outside of pure law as a chance to secure your future as a true business operator.