What are the most significant cases or transactions that your legal team has recently been involved in?

One of the most significant projects we have been involved in recently was being part of the first issuance of 30-year government bonds issued by the Republic of Colombia. We have been responsible for leading the process to negotiate the terms banks successfully supported; this placement was over-demanded.

Furthermore, we have participated in the funding structure through which the Government transferred ISA investment to Ecopetrol.

How have you harnessed technology to improve output or drive efficiencies?

We have been converting all the physical documentation processes to virtual ones, using technology for electronic signatures and client identification. We have also been supporting local fintech businesses in their development plans, providing receivable and payments solutions built over electronic and virtual processes that impact the market and the individuals that are clients of the fintech.

As we enter the next decade, what skills will an in-house lawyer need to succeed in the modern in-house industry?
The market is evolving rapidly, and the in-house counsel of a financial company needs to be up-to-date on technological developments and judicial decisions that impact the level of risk the company is willing to take. A holistic view, more than a specific legal one, is needed to provide effective and efficient assessment and risk analysis. The use of technology in day-to-day activities and the implementation of new products is a must.