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? 

Colombia, and more specifically the pharmaceutical and medical devices sector, has been going through difficulties because of the decisions taken by the government. It has been a hard period, and more difficulties will come due to regulatory instability and economic uncertainty. But each problem puts creativity to the test and, as a lawyer, it is a daily challenge to accompany the business, seek negotiated solutions to portfolio challenges, renegotiate debts and prioritise markets where the challenges are not so urgent, while others return to normal. As GC, I accompany the business managers to look for alternatives to stay afloat, with resilience, as another member of the crew in the boat going through the storm. 

In times of crisis, it is also crucial to carefully assess the risks, anticipate the needs of the business but also the needs of cash flow, business sustainability and debt health, and get involved in the operation of the company so that legal advice will be accurate. 

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

Due to the circumstances described above, transactions in health sector in Colombia have been slowing down. The measures that we as general counsel are seeking for companies are aimed at protecting them during this period of instability, rather than at expanding. Probably in the medium or long term we will again intervene in purchases of product lines, cooperation with other medical device companies to develop new technologies or search for distributors in new markets throughout the region, as we did before. 

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? 

Artificial Intelligence and automation will redefine the role of the general counsel and the contribution of lawyers in companies. This is something we are already seeing in law schools. Being able to have data lakes at our disposal that allow for predictive analysis of outcomes and free up lawyers’ time from time-consuming tasks could be beneficial for the future. Even so, the personall contribution of each lawyer’s legal judgment is something that, in my opinion, will always be required. 

In your opinion, what are the main trends that are salient in your country currently? 

The atmosphere of uncertainty that prevails in Colombia, particularly in the healthcare sector, has an impact on the medical device industry. Companies like Convatec, which not only brings innovative technologies to the country but also has clinics where it treats patients with complex wounds, hesitate before making further investments. Our role as legal counsel must include evaluating opportunities, mitigate risks and collaborating with the sustainable growth of the business.