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? 

In today’s dynamic business environment, characterised by volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity (VUCA), managing legal aspects during periods of instability or crises requires a proactive and flexible approach. At Primax Colombia S.A., the Legal Department is designed to operate effectively within such challenging environments by maintaining continuous empowerment and implementing agile methodologies in our day-to-day operations. These strategies enable swift and informed decision-making, which is critical in times of crisis. 

Empowerment within the legal team is a cornerstone of our approach. Each member is deeply familiar with the organisation’s objectives and is committed to delivering tailored, effective solutions that align with these goals. This high level of commitment and responsibility ensures that the legal department functions not just as a reactive entity, but as a proactive business facilitator. To achieve this, we place great emphasis on understanding the needs of our end clients through processes of empathy and aligning our management to meet those needs, all while maintaining the necessary legal rigour and integrity. 

The Legal Department’s role as a transversal function within the organisation allows us to identify opportunities for continuous improvement across all sections of the company, not just the commercial area. This cross-functional collaboration helps remove obstacles and fosters an awareness among teams of the importance of their roles in the broader business context. Our focus is on integrating legal considerations seamlessly into the business processes, ensuring that the legal strategy is in harmony with the organisation’s overall strategic objectives. This alignment strengthens the company’s resilience, allowing it to adapt and thrive even in the most challenging conditions. 

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

In recent times, I have been involved in several key cases and transactions that reflect the strategic priorities of Primax Colombia S.A. One of the most significant undertakings has been the implementation of the legal strategy surrounding the expansion of our national distribution network. This project is crucial for the company’s growth and involves navigating a complex regulatory landscape to ensure compliance while facilitating business expansion. 

Additionally, I have been deeply engaged in structuring and implementing financial leverage projects. These initiatives are vital for securing the financial stability and growth of the company, requiring a careful balance of legal acumen and strategic insight to maximise opportunities while minimising risks. 

Furthermore, I have led the design and execution of a legal strategy in an antitrust investigation. This has been a particularly challenging case, demanding a thorough understanding of both local and international antitrust laws, as well as a strategic approach to protect the company’s interests while ensuring full compliance with regulatory requirements. 

What emerging technologies do you see as having the most significant impact on the legal profession in the near future, and how do you stay updated on these developments? 

Emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics, are set to significantly impact the legal profession in the near future. AI, especially in the realm of data analytics, offers the potential to drastically reduce response times in legal processes, allowing legal departments to focus more on strategic decision-making aligned with business objectives. For instance, the automation of contract preparation and control processes, coupled with methodologies like legal design, can help bridge the gap between the legal language of contracts and their practical application, fostering greater trust and understanding without compromising legal effectiveness. 

While AI presents exciting possibilities, it is still in its early stages of development and widespread implementation. At Primax Colombia S.A., we recognise the potential of these technologies and are actively exploring their applications, though we acknowledge that their maturity and broader adoption will take time. In the meantime, we stay updated on these developments through continuous academic engagement, specialised articles, and ongoing discussions with service providers who are pioneering these innovations. 

In summary, the integration of AI and other emerging technologies into legal practices is a gradual process that holds great promise for the future. By staying informed and adaptable, we ensure that the legal department at Primax Colombia S.A. remains at the forefront of these advancements, ready to harness their potential when the time is right.