“Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success.” – Albert Schweitzer

Elizabeth Soto Mendoza, VP & Chief Compliance Officer, has had an illustrious career marked by significant milestones and achievements. Starting her legal career in 2004 as a legal intern at BSTL, which was later acquired by Hogan Lovells, she spent nearly eight years honing her skills. Her transition to the corporate world began at GE Capital, where she served as an in-house counsel specializing in financial restructures, aircraft, and project finance.

It was during this time that she discovered her passion for regulatory and compliance work, driven by the introduction of new AML regulations. This pivotal moment set the stage for her future endeavors, where she would continue to excel and make significant contributions to the field of compliance.

Career Milestones

Elizabeth’s journey continued at GE Healthcare, where she joined as a Compliance Manager for Latin America. Her role expanded as she became the Head of Legal Mexico, handling multiple investigations and gaining valuable experience in dealing with government entities. For three years, she served as the Compliance Director for Latin America, overseeing various businesses such as Oil and Gas, Telecom, Aerospace, and Building Automation.

During this period, she conducted training sessions for over 20,000 associates across the region, all while balancing her growing family. Her ability to manage such a demanding role while maintaining a work-life balance is a testament to her dedication and resilience. Seeking a better work-life balance, she joined Bettinger Asesores law firm as a Partner in Corporate and Compliance. Here, she conducted complex investigations for large organizations and served as a Compliance Expert in an international arbitration process.

During the pandemic, while expecting her third child, she was approached by Tupperware and hired as the Global Compliance Director in 2021. Her exemplary performance led to her promotion to Senior Director in 2023, and she eventually became the VP and Chief Compliance Officer in 2024.

Core Responsibilities

In her current role, Elizabeth provides leadership and support for corporate compliance and data privacy projects worldwide. She is responsible for creating, managing, and delivering all activities related to compliance and data privacy programs across global operations. This includes updating the Code of Conduct, developing global policies, leading internal investigations, and managing due diligence and background checks for third parties.

For Data Privacy, she identifies risks, implements controls, and ensures compliance with local regulations. Elizabeth also oversees a platform for managing day-to-day data privacy procedures, including data privacy agreements, impact assessments, and data subject requests. Her comprehensive approach ensures compliance with all relevant regulations, safeguarding the company’s reputation and fostering a culture of integrity and transparency.

Leadership Style

Elizabeth Soto’s leadership style is democratic, based on trust and empathy. “I enjoy discovering and leveraging the top skills of my team members, helping them overcome difficulties and acting as a supportive guide.” Her open, humane, and transparent approach fosters a collaborative environment where creativity and innovation thrive.

She encourages her team to think outside the box and find new solutions to challenges, always making decisions based on the highest integrity and ethical standards. Her ability to connect with her team on a personal level and her commitment to their professional growth have made her a respected and effective leader. By fostering a culture of trust and mutual respect, Elizabeth ensures that her team is motivated and empowered to achieve their best.

Cultivating Innovation

Elizabeth fosters a safe environment where everyone can share their ideas. “As a global business, my team interacts with associates and third parties from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and countries, gathering best practices from around the world.” She believes that while businesses may change rapidly, human nature and core values remain constant.

Ensuring that every leader and associate feels safe and respected in the workplace allows them to thrive, even in adverse circumstances. Elizabeth’s approach to innovation is rooted in her belief that diversity and inclusion are key drivers of creativity and problem-solving. By encouraging open communication and collaboration, she creates an environment where new ideas can flourish and where her team feels valued and supported.

Defining Success

For Elizabeth, success is measured by happiness and adding value to what each person considers meaningful. “My career has been dedicated to helping others find peace, justice, and building a harmonious and fair workplace. I believe that companies represent their people, and good companies build good character in their employees.”

This philosophy drives her commitment to fostering a positive compliance culture and creating an environment where everyone can grow and succeed. Elizabeth’s definition of success goes beyond traditional metrics; it encompasses the well-being and personal growth of her team members and the positive impact she can make on the broader community. Her holistic approach to success ensures that her leadership is both impactful and sustainable.

Balancing Professional and Personal Life

Elizabeth attributes her ability to balance professional and personal life to a strong support system. The flexibility to work from home, combined with the support of her husband and children, allows her to manage her responsibilities effectively. She emphasizes the importance of organization, delegation, and letting go of guilt to maintain mental and physical health.

By sharing tasks and allowing others to participate, she creates a balanced approach that promotes productivity and well-being. Elizabeth’s approach to work-life balance is a testament to her ability to prioritize and manage her time effectively. “I believe that a healthy balance between work and personal life is essential for long-term success and happiness”, and she strives to model this balance for her team.

Staying Updated

Elizabeth stays updated with industry trends by talking to colleagues, reading articles and books, and attending webinars and conferences. She has participated in many forums and events, both in Mexico and abroad, enriching her professional and personal life. As a panelist or moderator, she delves deep into relevant compliance subjects, sharing experiences and lessons with other professionals.

Her commitment to continuous learning and professional development ensures that she remains at the forefront of her field. Elizabeth’s proactive approach to staying informed and engaged with industry trends allows her to anticipate and respond to emerging challenges and opportunities, ensuring that her team and organization are always prepared for the future.

Overcoming Challenges

The biggest challenges in Elizabeth’s career have always been about people. Making decisions that affect lives or careers, and dealing with varying levels of trust and belief in ethics, have shaped her leadership approach. She understands that compliance decisions impact not only employees and companies but also the entire organization’s culture.

By considering legal, regulatory, financial, commercial, and ethical factors, and trusting her experience and instincts, she navigates these challenges successfully. Elizabeth’s ability to handle difficult situations with empathy and integrity has earned her the respect and trust of her colleagues and peers. Her approach to overcoming challenges is rooted in her belief that ethical leadership and a strong compliance culture are essential for long-term success.

Advice for Aspiring Leaders

Elizabeth advises aspiring leaders to commit to themselves before committing to any task, company, or relationship. She emphasizes the importance of leading oneself well to inspire others. “The true race is against one’s prior self, and the goal is to be the best version of oneself. By building strong relationships, embracing innovation, and focusing on holistic development, aspiring leaders can make a meaningful impact.”

Elizabeth’s advice is grounded in her own experiences and the lessons she has learned throughout her career. She believes that true leadership is about serving others and creating an environment where everyone can thrive. Her insights and guidance provide valuable inspiration for those looking to advance in their careers and make a positive impact.

Future Goals

Elizabeth’s key priorities for the future include building a solid foundation for her company and family. “I believe in leaving a positive legacy and improving lives. By fostering a positive Compliance culture and creating an environment where everyone can thrive, I aim to continue making a significant impact in her professional and personal life.”

Elizabeth’s vision for the future is one where ethical leadership and a strong compliance culture are integral to the success of organizations. She is committed to driving positive change and ensuring that her team and organization are well-prepared for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Her dedication to her work and her family is a testament to her values and her commitment to making a difference.

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