Esther A. Casas, General Counsel, Head of Legal and Compliance, IMI Hydronic Engineering
Esther possesses an extensive professional experience. Starting her career as a litigator, she practiced public-administrative law and corporate law, later specializing in business and international law. Throughout her career, she has worked for law firms, the public and the private sector. After moving to Switzerland, Esther has worked for and advised various multinational companies. She obtained her first law degree and bar admission in Mexico and after an LL.M in International Legal Studies at Georgetown University (as Fulbright Scholar), she was further admitted to the New York bar. Esther was an active committee member and Vice-President to the CWF, dedicating her time and energy to the forum’s vision. In 2015, she concluded an Executive MBA at the HEC Lausanne. Esther loves reading, traveling and cultural activities. Some years ago, Esther discovered golf, a new passion.
Who are you, in three words?
Curious, perseverant, resilient.
What would you do differently if you could travel back in time?
I am happy with the decisions I have taken in life but looking back, I would probably be less hard on myself.
What advice do you give to a new generation of women entering the job market?
To plan their career in combination with their personal and family life. To see it as a whole and to realize that it is possible to have it all, but not all at the same time….
Which skill(s) would you like to possess?
Patience, patience and patience.
Do you have a particular skill?
I think I am a natural optimist, I spot the good side of things, even in complicated situations.
What is your perception of the benefits of networking?
Based on my own experience, I can say that networking is fundamental: when I moved to Switzerland I had to rebuild my professional network and networking at the CWF was very helpful. Having a solid professional background and a good CV is not enough; we remain human beings, therefore personal contact, perception, and interpersonal relationships can make an enormous difference, in particular in today’s competitive marketplace.
Which hobby should try or practise and why?
I would say Golf because it is an excellent networking tool. Also, golf is similar to life: unpredictable, varied and full of opportunities. Even if you play the same golf course, circumstances are always different keeping us challenged and motivated. After a terrible hole you might play the next one wonderfully; just like life: you have always the opportunity to make it better next time and it all depends on yourself!
What do you suggest to change and or improve at the CWF?
I think the current event mix is good. However, I would like to see more events inclusive of young generations and men (e.g. for networking, conferences, mentoring).
What are the opportunities and challenges for the CWF?
The good reputation of the CWF opens the door to connect with a broad range of parties, this is a strength to leverage in order to explore new opportunities (e.g. further activities with other associations and business chambers). Keeping members’ interest and participation is challenging but this may be tackled by a good balance between corporate and individual members, as well as the nature of the activities offered.
A final message?
Whenever I attend a CWF event, I leave with a smile, enthusiastic and energized. Thanks to those who have contributed and continue the hard work to build and maintain the CWF.