Legal Specialist

Job Description We are the movers of the world and the makers of the future. We get up every day, roll up our sleeves and build a better world -- together. At Ford, we’re all a part of something bigger than ourselves. What will you make today? We are seeking an experienced Legal Counsel to join our legal team in Mexico. This critical role offers broad legal support across multiple functions, with a significant emphasis on data privacy. The successful candidate will directly support the company's Data Privacy Officer (DPO) by advising Ford Motor Company, Ford Credit, and their affiliated entities in Mexico, Puerto Rico, and various Caribbean countries on all aspects of data protection and privacy law. In addition to privacy, this role will also provide essential legal expertise to key areas such as Information Technology (IT), Internal Control, Marketing, and support for Ford's non‑profit association. The Counsel will play a vital role in ensuring compliance with Mexican, U.S. (for Puerto Rico), and relevant international data privacy regulations, supporting business initiatives, and managing legal and compliance risks across our diverse operations. Responsibilities Legal Counsel & Compliance Support for the DPO Assist the DPO in providing expert legal advice and guidance on Mexican data protection laws (e.g., Ley Federal de Protección de Datos Personales en Posesión de los Particulares and its Regulations) and other applicable privacy regulations. In coordination with external law firms, support the DPO in providing legal advice on data protection and privacy matters for our operations in Puerto Rico (including U.S. federal and local laws) and various Caribbean countries (considering their respective legal frameworks). Help ensure compliance across all business units, including Ford Motor, Ford Credit, and their affiliates. Analyze new and evolving data privacy legislation and regulatory guidance, assessing their impact on company operations and advising the DPO on necessary adjustments. Policy & Documentation Assistance Draft and negotiate data processing agreements, data transfer agreements, and privacy clauses in commercial contracts. Maintain and update the personal data inventory in accordance with company projects and evolving needs. Operational Support Review and, as appropriate, approve requests for access and use of personal data by various internal departments for projects, market research, and other initiatives, ensuring compliance with privacy policies and regulations. Support the DPO in managing and responding to data subject rights requests (ARCO rights - Access, Rectification, Cancellation, and Opposition). Assist with internal and external audits related to data privacy and cybersecurity. Evaluate the data privacy impact of updates and new features for Ford-owned applications (Apps). Manage legal aspects of Ford Credit's marketing and insurances initiatives, including reviewing communications and bulletins for the dealer network. Offer legal advice to the IT department and manage contract drafting related to technology matters. Act as the primary legal liaison for Internal Control processes and internal audit engagements. Serve as the legal counsel responsible for drafting contracts and addressing legal inquiries for Ford's non‑profit association (Comité Cívico). Training & Awareness Assist the DPO in delivering training programs for employees on data protection and privacy best practices. Qualifications Education Licenciatura en Derecho (Law Degree). Postgraduate studies or certifications in Data Protection, Privacy Law, or Cybersecurity are highly desirable. Experience Minimum of 2 years of relevant legal experience specializing in data protection and privacy law. Experience working in-house for a multinational corporation or with a leading law firm advising corporate clients on privacy matters is preferred. Skills Excellent written and verbal communication skills in both Spanish and English (fluent). Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and decision‑making abilities. Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail. Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities. DISCLAIMER: Ford Motor Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer, as we are committed with a diverse workforce, and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, status as a veteran and basis of disability. #J-18808-Ljbffr