Lourdes Linares Cuadrado

How would you describe your experience at IE Law School, and what were your highlights?

My experience at IE Law School was very memorable. The program is designed to mimic the everyday environment of a law firm and provide us with the most up-to-date academic training in legal practice, entrepreneurship and technology. All the teachers work at prominent law firms in each of their respective fields, and the classes take a case-study approach, which I think is how you learn the most. The work is intense, but you work as a team on numerous projects. It’s the perfect opportunity to bring your teamwork and legal skills up to a whole new level. 

The most memorable moment of my time at IE Law School was the final project, where we collaborated with IBM. It was an incredible experience. We learnt how to program IBM’s Watson Assistant, an AI chatbot, and tailor it to a legal field of our choice. Developing the business plan for the chatbot and the final presentation at IBM were two things that really stand out in my mind. The result for my team was excellent as well—we actually achieved the highest grade!

What do you do for work at the moment, and what do you enjoy most about your job?

Currently, I am a Regulatory Sandbox Consultant. My role involves providing advisory services to companies that want to be part of the Regulatory Sandbox initiative. In Spain, this acts as a testing space for innovation and technology-based projects in a controlled environment. As a consultant, my work isn’t just about advisory services but also business development. I’m responsible for lead prospecting and qualifying, conducting discovery calls, and also designing marketing and sales strategies. 

The most enjoyable thing about my job is working with people—both leads and clients—and learning about the new technologies taking flight in innovative business models. It’s fascinating to learn about the possibilities that technology offers for different sectors.

How has IE University helped prepare you for your professional career? 

My years at IE University and IE Law School have not only allowed me to become a lawyer and develop a wealth of legal skills, but also fostered my commitment to open-mindedness. It’s one of my core values, and one that has pushed me to pursue my passions and hobbies. IE University doesn’t just focus on students’ academic potential, but their personal lives and ambitions too.

Do you have any advice for new students starting a program at IE Law School?

My advice for new students of the Doble Máster en Abogacía y Emprendimiento y Tecnología is to make the most of it, and go beyond the limits of the classroom. Be curious and explore your chosen sector outside of class, talk to your teachers, attend seminars, look for your passion within the field—and don’t stop until you find it. The possibilities are endless within technology; there’s so much potential. There’s also a demand for passionate professionals who have a deep knowledge of the field.

Why did you choose to do a Master’s degree focused on technology and law, and how do you envision the evolution of technology in the legal sector?

When I chose the program, I knew that lawyers—and many other professionals—would need to understand technological change and be able to adapt accordingly. The world is entering a digital era that we can’t yet fully comprehend. Technology is advancing in the legal, financial, health and entertainment sectors, and I knew I wanted to be part of this revolution.

This Master allows you to explore the technology sector in general, with an emphasis on LegalTech. It’s a comprehensive program that provides you with the academic background and expertise required to grow in this new era. Realistically, technology will play a huge part in the future of every industry sector—so I knew this program would be invaluable for me.

What skills do you think are necessary to stand out in the legal sector?

In my opinion, you have to be knowledgeable about the sector, open-minded, energetic and adaptable. The technology sector is ever-evolving, and those who are part of it will have to adapt to the new changes coming their way. I also think being curious helps you navigate your way through the sector and stand out. You need to stay up-to-date with the innovative business models and up-and-coming technologies to stay ahead of the game. Of course, networking is also a vital part of the sector, so securing contacts should also be part of your skill set.

In the digital age, mastering communication is also key. I completed a master’s degree in communication because I believe a good communicator must be able to deliver a message in any situation for any audience—and that’s a powerful skill.

Besides law, what are your hobbies and interests?

I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, as well as playing sports. I think working out is good for your soul, and it gives me energy. My favorite sport is tennis; I play a few times every week and have been playing for many years. It’s not only fun, but it’s also such a good workout and it improves my concentration.

I am also fascinated by the world of art, which is why I decided to become a freelance artist manager. In that role, I prospect and close partnerships with influential players in the sector. There is so much potential for art in the digital world, especially now we have NFTs, and I’m excited to explore this in my own time. My aim is to channel digital developments into growing my clients’ art.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

In five years, I see myself working in the technology sector. I’d like to have developed as a freelance artist manager, with more clients to represent. I’m very excited to see what the future holds for me!