Breaking Borders, Shaping Careers: The Power of Global Mobility
In today’s interconnected world, careers are no longer confined to a single country or sector. This is especially true in global firms, where opportunities span continents and industries. But what does it take to navigate such a dynamic path? And what do you gain—or lose—when you cross borders and sectors? This is where the journey gets intriguing, as we explore the transformative power of mobility with two remarkable professionals: Isadora Talamo and Juan Pablo Puerto Reyes, both alumni of Kennedys, a global law firm.
Isadora Talamo, a Brazilian-qualified lawyer, began her career in the insurance market while studying in Brazil. After a stint at Aon in Brazil, she moved to London in 2010 as a reinsurance broker. Missing the legal world, she pursued further education to qualify as a solicitor in England and Wales. In 2016, she joined Kennedys in London, focusing on Latin America, before transitioning to in-house roles in London and Barcelona. Today, she serves as Product Counsel at Sompo in Barcelona, blending her legal expertise with product development.
Juan Pablo Puerto Reyes, hailing from Colombia, started his career in law firms, specializing in M&A. His journey took him from Colombia to London for a master’s degree, and later to Spain, where he now serves as General Counsel at Grupo Ingenium Tecnología in Madrid. Along the way, he worked in the public sector and at Kennedys, where he established the LATAM desk in Madrid, showcasing his ability to bridge cultures and legal systems.
But here’s where it gets controversial: Moving across borders isn’t just about career advancement. It’s also about personal growth, cultural adaptation, and sometimes, tough choices. Isadora highlights the challenges of navigating different legal systems and the importance of building a trusted network of colleagues and external counsel. Juan emphasizes the cultural nuances in communication, noting how Latin American expressiveness contrasts with the directness of European or American cultures. And this is the part most people miss: the emotional toll of leaving your hometown, the nostalgia for familiar surroundings, and the constant need to adapt.
Both Isadora and Juan stress the value of their time at Kennedys, which provided them with a global perspective and a strong foundation in legal practice. They also underscore the importance of research, collaboration, and humility in their roles. Here’s a thought-provoking question: In a world where legal practice is increasingly global, how do we balance expertise with the humility to admit what we don’t know? Both Isadora and Juan advocate for leveraging internal networks and external resources, rather than pretending to have all the answers.
On a personal level, Isadora and Juan cherish their lives in Spain, appreciating the cultural richness, ease of living, and professional opportunities. Yet, they both acknowledge the nostalgia for their home countries and the sacrifices made along the way. Is moving abroad worth it? They unequivocally say yes, citing the personal growth, broadened perspectives, and the realization of how small—yet interconnected—the world truly is.
As they reflect on their journeys, Isadora and Juan offer advice to their younger selves: focus on research, ask the right questions, and never hesitate to reach out to colleagues. A counterpoint to consider: While global mobility offers immense opportunities, it also requires resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to step out of your comfort zone. Is this a trade-off you’re willing to make?
In closing, their stories remind us that careers are not linear but transformative journeys shaped by choices, challenges, and connections. Whether you’re considering a move abroad, a shift in sector, or simply seeking to stay connected, the Kennedys Alumni Network offers a space to learn, grow, and collaborate. So, what’s your next move? Will you take the leap and explore the possibilities that global mobility has to offer? The choice is yours, but the potential is limitless.
