Legal vicepresident | Bladex
Luis Carlos Uribe Jované
Legal vicepresident | Bladex
Luis Carlos Uribe Jované
Legal Vice-President
Banco Latinoamericano De Comercio Exterior, S.A. (Bladex)
What are the major projects or initiatives you have worked on that you are most proud of?
The bank I work for has been undergoing a transformational process, characterised by an increase in transaction volume and complexity, with transactions being conducted across a wide geographical span, from the United States to Chile. These developments have presented an intriguing challenge, particularly in managing cross-border transactions with the dedication and commitment they require, all while maintaining a strong focus on both timeliness and quality. The satisfaction of overcoming these challenges has been further heightened by the significant improvement in workplace culture, which is undoubtedly a personal point of pride.
What measures has your company taken to embed sustainability practices into its core business operations, and how does the role of the general counsel contribute to driving and ensuring sustainable practices within the company?
The bank’s core purpose is to foster trade operations while ensuring that sustainability remains a key element of its business strategy. To achieve this, the bank has established clear guidelines that define the types of transactions that are not eligible for financing, reinforcing its commitment to responsible and ethical business practices. These exclusions include trade in wildlife or wildlife products regulated under CITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora), as well as commercial logging operations or the purchase of logging equipment for use in primary tropical moist forests, in accordance with the forestry policy. Additionally, the bank does not finance the production or commercialisation of pesticides and herbicides subject to restrictions or international prohibitions under the Rotterdam Convention on the Prior Informed Consent Procedure for Certain Hazardous Chemicals and Pesticides in International Trade. Finally, the bank excludes the production or trade in ozone-depleting substances, which are subject to international phase-out under the Montreal Protocol.
The role of the General Counsel is central to ensuring that these sustainability commitments are effectively embedded within the bank’s operations. By providing legal oversight, the legal team plays a crucial role in shaping policies, advising on compliance with international sustainability frameworks, and fostering a culture of responsible financing that aligns with the bank’s long-term vision.
In your opinion, what are the main trends that are salient in your country currently?
In my opinion, the most relevant issues in my country are centred around the economic sector, particularly with regard to key decisions concerning pension and retirement funds. The education sector, as always, will continue to be a prominent focus in public discourse. Additionally, diplomatic matters are expected to play a significant role in shaping the national agenda.