Marco Andres Avila Rodas

Sur Legal Estudio Juridico (Ecuador)

Marco Andrés Ávila Rodas is a founding partner at Sur Legal, where he advises national and multinational companies on intellectual property, corporate law, business structuring, mergers and acquisitions. His practice focuses on trademark and copyright registration and protection, as well as developing strategies that enable companies to leverage their intellectual assets as tools for growth and competitiveness.

He has been recognized by international publications in the categories of Trademark Prosecution, Enforcement & Anti-Counterfeiting Actions, and M&A. Additionally, he has participated for several years as a guest contributor to the World Bank Group's Business Ready (B-READY) report, providing his perspective on intellectual property matters to assess regulatory environments that support business activity.

Marco is a master's degree professor at Universidad del Pacífico, where he teaches Intellectual Property in the Digital Era, exploring the challenges and opportunities that new technologies pose for the protection and management of intangible assets. His academic experience also includes courses in Tax Law, Public International Law, and Insurance Legislation.

His career combines private sector expertise with significant public sector experience. He has held strategic positions including Chairman of the Board of Directors of Public Companies (presidential cabinet member), City Councilor of Cuenca, advisor to the Presidency of the Republic, and advisor to the Mayor's Office of Cuenca. This dual experience has given him a comprehensive understanding of how public policies and regulation directly impact business development and innovation.

He has led investment processes in the tourism sector, particularly in the Galápagos Islands, where the protection of trademarks and intellectual assets has been key to structuring sustainable businesses. His work ranges from advising startups building their initial IP strategies to supporting established corporations requiring portfolio optimization and cross-border management.

Marco has been invited as a speaker at events in Spain, Mexico, Chile, Colombia, and Ecuador.

Marco holds a law degree and an MBA from Universidad del Azuay, a specialization in Tax Law from Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha (Spain), a degree in Social Communication Sciences, and a Diploma in Public Management from Universidad Católica de Guayaquil.

Outside his professional life, Marco is a triathlete, training in swimming, cycling, and running. He is also passionate about photography and actively participates with his family in social responsibility activities.