What do migration trends tell us about where international talent mobility is heading—and how prepared are companies to respond?
This question set the stage for the first Forum for Expatriate Management (FEM) Chapter Meeting in Latin America, held on November 5 at the Mexico City Chamber of Commerce (CANACO CDMX).
Sergio Otal of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) opened the discussions with a keynote focused on the importance of reliable migration data and meaningful analysis. Understanding the numbers behind mobility patterns can provide critical context for companies navigating international assignments, workforce planning, and changing migration environments.
Adding a business and institutional perspective, Adrián Escamilla Palafox, Executive Director of Grupo CISA, drew on his experience across the public and private sectors to explore the opportunities and challenges shaping mobility in Mexico.
Where Global Mobility Gets Complex
The panel discussions moved from the broader mobility landscape to the realities companies face when relocating international talent.
Immigration and labor law emerged as a key area of discussion, particularly the relationship between immigration procedures, employment obligations, and compliance when hiring foreign professionals. Gerardo Rodríguez Montes de Oca of Miranda & Estavillo contributed a legal perspective, alongside insights from global mobility specialists.
The conversation also extended to corporate housing, cultural adaptation, and family integration, with contributions from Alejandra Coronel Mengelle of Huitzilli, Carlos Llewellyn of Nido Apartments, Alejandra Quintero of Doma Curated Stays, and María Felicio of Blueground.
Together, these perspectives connected the regulatory, operational, and human factors that influence international assignments.
A Regional Hub for Industry Dialogue
For those of us working in global mobility, bringing these perspectives together is particularly valuable.
Through our work at Employee Mobility Solutions (EMS) in Mexico, we see how immigration requirements, employment considerations, and the employee experience intersect in international assignments.
The panel discussions were guided by Geraldo Pérez de León, Jorge Alvarado, and Abigail Pérez of EMS, helping bring together different perspectives from across the industry.
The discussions in Mexico City reinforced the importance of exchanging knowledge across disciplines as Mexico continues to strengthen its position as a strategic hub for international business and talent mobility.