How do you approach managing legal aspects during periods of instability or crises, and how does your legal strategy align with the broader business strategy to ensure the organisation’s resilience? 

As the Legal and Compliance Director for SGS in Colombia, Central America, and the Caribbean, managing legal aspects during periods of instability or crisis is a multifaceted responsibility that requires both strategic foresight and tactical precision. In my role, I focus on developing comprehensive crisis management plans that prioritise regulatory compliance and risk mitigation. This involves not only assessing and managing existing risks but also anticipating potential legal challenges that could arise during a crisis. It is essential to maintain robust governance and compliance frameworks to ensure that the organisation remains resilient and capable of navigating turbulent times. 

My legal strategy is closely aligned with the broader business strategy of SGS, ensuring that the company’s legal framework supports its long-term objectives. This alignment is achieved through the integration of risk management processes that are designed to protect the organisation while enabling it to pursue its strategic goals. By promoting sustainability and adhering to industry best practices, the legal department contributes to the organisation’s resilience, ensuring that we are well-prepared for any eventuality. Regular crisis simulations and training are also conducted to reinforce our preparedness, allowing us to update our strategies based on lessons learned and evolving industry standards. This proactive approach ensures that legal considerations are not only reactive but also pre-emptive, supporting the overall business strategy in maintaining stability and resilience. 

What are the main cases or transactions you have been involved in recently? 

Recently, I have been deeply involved in several significant legal cases and transactions that reflect the evolving landscape in which SGS operates. One of the key areas of focus has been the company’s efforts to strengthen its compliance and regulatory frameworks in response to new local and international regulations. This includes overseeing legal strategies related to sustainability and environmental regulations, which are critical to aligning with SGS’s global commitments to renewable energy and sustainability standards. My role has been to ensure that these legal strategies are not only compliant with current regulations but also forward-thinking, allowing SGS to remain at the forefront of sustainable business practices. 

In addition to regulatory matters, I have played a crucial role in managing the legal aspects of various corporate transactions, including mergers, acquisitions, tenders, and partnerships aimed at expanding SGS’s footprint in Colombia and Central America. These transactions are pivotal to the company’s growth strategy, and my responsibility is to ensure that they comply with both local laws and international standards. By doing so, I help to safeguard the company from potential legal and financial risks, thereby supporting SGS’s strategic initiatives and long-term growth. 

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? 

SGS, as a leading inspection, verification, testing, and certification company, has undertaken several initiatives to embed sustainability practices into its core business operations. The company has developed a comprehensive sustainability strategy that aligns with global standards and frameworks, such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This strategy includes setting measurable targets to reduce environmental impact, enhance social responsibility, and ensure economic sustainability. SGS has also implemented a sustainable supply chain, ensuring that suppliers adhere to ethical and sustainable practices, with regular audits and assessments to ensure compliance. 

As the General Counsel for the region, I play a pivotal role in driving and ensuring that these sustainable practices are not only implemented but are also legally sound and aligned with the company’s overall sustainability objectives. My responsibilities include managing legal and compliance risks to ensure adherence to relevant environmental, social, and governance (ESG) regulations and standards. This involves developing and implementing internal policies that promote sustainable practices and integrating sustainability considerations into our corporate governance frameworks. 

In collaboration with the Compliance Officer, I oversee ethics and compliance programmes that foster a culture of integrity and accountability within SGS. This includes conducting training and awareness programmes on sustainability’s legal and ethical aspects, ensuring that all employees understand and adhere to these principles. Furthermore, I ensure accurate and transparent reporting of our sustainability performance to stakeholders, reinforcing SGS’s commitment to sustainability and its role as a leader in the industry. 

In summary, SGS has embedded sustainability into its core operations through strategic initiatives and robust governance practices. As General Counsel, my role is integral to ensuring these practices are legally compliant, ethically robust, and in alignment with the company’s broader sustainability goals.