Team size: Three

Could you share an example of a time when you came up with an innovation that improved how your legal team works and did not come at a large expense?

The use of electronic signature software has transformed the signing process for legal documents in DSV. It eliminates the need for physical signatures, reduces time and effort, enables remote signing, enhances document security, integrates with other legal tools, and offers affordable pricing options. This innovation improves efficiency, security, and workflow without incurring substantial expenses.

This innovation has brought significant improvements to the work not only of the legal team, but all teams with signatures requirements by increasing efficiency, collaboration, and document security, while also offering a cost-effective solution.

What are some of the main trends impacting the industry sector you work in in Colombia?

The freight forwarding and logistics sector in Colombia is undergoing significant changes. Key trends include the digitalisation and automation of processes, driven by advanced technologies such as AI and IoT and traceability apps among others. The booming e-commerce market is increasing demand for efficient logistics services, while sustainability and green initiatives are becoming essential for reducing carbon footprints. Supply chain resilience and risk management are crucial, especially in the face of disruptions like the one we lived with Covid-19 pandemic. Regulatory compliance, customs law modernisation, infrastructure development, and collaboration among stakeholders are also shaping the sector. Embracing these trends will be vital for success in the evolving Colombian logistics industry.

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?

Stealing a line from our corporate CEO, I would say DSV is committed to keep supply chains flowing – and we must make sure this goes hand in hand with our long-term ambition to decarbonize logistics. DSV launched and has been working hard on “DSV green logistics service” through which we have raised our ambitions to leave the planet in a better state for future generations. Green Logistics supports DSV’s aim to reduce both its own and its customers environmental footprint through green alternative services solutions. DSV Green Logistics consists of four different products: Sustainable fuel offerings, carbon offsetting, green supply chain design and optimisation and CO2e reporting.

As a legal team, our role in global environmental initiatives is crucial. We ensure compliance with environmental regulations, provide legal counsel, manage risks, and participate in policy formulation. Our goal is to ensure our organisation operates sustainably and responsibly. We evaluate the legal impact of environmental initiatives, address associated risks and liabilities, and guide transactional activities. We aim to collaborate with regulatory bodies and stakeholders to influence environmental policies and legislation. Through our efforts, we contribute to a greener and more sustainable future.

What steps do you take to ensure the successful integration and adoption of new technologies among your team members?

To ensure successful integration and adoption of new technologies among team members, modern counsel should communicate the vision and benefits clearly, provide training and support, foster a culture of learning, involve team members in decision-making, address concerns and resistance, monitor progress, and recognise and reward successful adoption. These steps create an environment that promotes enthusiasm, skill development, and engagement, leading to effective technology integration within the team.

How do you prioritise diversity and inclusion within your legal department, and what initiatives have you implemented to foster a more inclusive and equitable work environment?

As part of a diverse and inclusive company as DSV, in our legal department, I prioritise diversity and inclusion to foster a more inclusive and equitable work environment being part of DSV initiatives that include inclusive recruitment practices, diversity training and employee resource groups. Our efforts to have inclusive policies, collaborate with external organisations, and ongoing assessments ensure that our team reflects the diversity of the world we operate in, promotes innovation, and better serves our customers and stakeholders.

What challenges have you encountered in implementing effective risk management practices, and how have you overcome them?

Implementing effective risk management practices in freight forwarding and logistics can be challenging due to the complexity of the supply chain, regulatory compliance requirements, operational risks, and cybersecurity threats. To overcome such; strategies include conducting a comprehensive risk assessment, fostering collaboration and partnerships, establishing robust compliance programmes, implementing operational processes and contingency plans, investing in cybersecurity measures, and ensuring continuous monitoring and improvement. These strategies are constantly helping us to identify and mitigate risks, enhance resilience, comply with regulations but must important they help us to adapt.

What is a cause, business-related or otherwise, you are passionate about, and why?

From a professional point of view, as a business-oriented lawyer I am passionate about understanding and contributing to the overall business strategy of our clients and organisation. I am interested in aligning legal advice and solutions with the broader goals and objectives of the business.