The general counsel of Brazilian mining company Vale has moved back to private practice, joining Latin-American law firm Veirano.

Pedro Aguiar de Freitas will take up his new position at the beginning of February after spending six years in-house at Vale. He has also worked as general counsel of Brasil Telecom and as senior counsel at the International Finance Corporation.

The move marks Freitas's return to the firm where he started his career more than 20 years ago, which was then the Rio de Janeiro office of Baker & McKenzie.

Commenting on the appointment, Veirano managing partner, Carlos Souto, said: "Pedro will be able to immediately and effectively put to work his various skills because he knows our firm and many of its partners so well."

Freitas added: "To me it is only natural to be back at Veirano, where I have the privilege to work with people who I like and admire, and most importantly, share the same values.

"I have a new opportunity to continue to contribute to the growth of this great firm, now in a senior position. I am very happy and motivated to be back."

Freitas's arrival at Veirano brings the number of partners at the firm to 30, with 15 practising in Rio de Janeiro.

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