Team size: 11

Major legal advisers: Gomez Pinzon Abogados S.A.S, Dentons Cardenas & Cardenas, Arraujo Ibarra Consultores Internacionales

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?

Our practice in the legal department focuses on making the most of our existing team’s knowledge, experience, and strengths. Therefore, our attention has been directed towards adapting our lawyers to align with the future and requirements of the company.

For instance, one of our biggest challenges in the last few years was supporting, structuring, and advising the first green hydrogen pilot test in Colombia, conducted by the Refinery in 2022. This was a crucial step in the country’s energy transition process towards sustainable and renewable sources. Moreover, as part of the green hydrogen pilot program, we are currently working with external advisors to structure the first purchase agreement for hydrogen in Colombia.

To that effect, our in-house lawyers have undergone training in energy transition. This training serves to retool our legal team, allowing us to rely less on external advisors, increase our effectiveness and reduce legal costs.

Can you foresee any key developments to the way general counsel work over the next five years?

Nowadays, in-house lawyers have acquired a more significant role within companies compared to the past. While external service advisors remain essential, in-house lawyers have increasingly demonstrated that their responsibilities extend beyond liaising with external counsel. Our role demands active contributions to the business and its economics results, providing real value especially considering our comprehensive understanding of the business and its goals.

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

The main trend is the swift transition to green energy, which places significant emphasis in non-conventional energy resources and their regulation.

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?

Refinería de Cartagena has been actively engaged in community development, increasing its direct investments in local communities. We have implemented various projects aimed at addressing their actual needs to the best extent possible. In line with this commitment, we have been working on a legal plan that combines public and private effort to provide adequate housing for underprivileged communities and immigrants currently residing near the Ciénaga de la Virgen in Cartagena. This body of water, located along the city’s coast, faces issues such as garbage accumulation, waste disposal, and susceptibility to flooding, leading to unsanitary conditions.

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

Seeing technology as a friend and not a foe, technology can help us reduce tasks that should be automated, resulting in more time to focus our attention on other endeavours and achieve a better work-life balance.