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 organization’s resilience?   

As the Gerente de Estrategia y Asesoría Legal at Oleoducto Central S.A. (Ocensa), my approach to managing legal aspects during periods of instability or crises is centred around providing solutions that meet the organisation’s needs while maintaining strict compliance with the legal framework. We consistently seek innovative solutions that align with our business strategy, ensuring that any legal advice or action not only addresses immediate challenges but also supports the organisation’s long-term resilience. This proactive and strategic approach allows us to navigate crises effectively, ensuring that our legal strategies are closely integrated with the broader business objectives.

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

Recently, I have been involved in several significant cases and transactions. One of the key projects was providing legal advice and coordinating external legal counsel for the partial repurchase of the company’s senior debt, due in 2027, which was initially issued under the rule 144A/RegS of the Securities Act in 2020. This transaction, completed in May 2023, was crucial for managing the company’s financial health. Additionally, I provided legal support for the sale of power surplus generated by our solar power projects at two pipeline stations, a significant step toward enhancing the company’s energy efficiency goals. 

Another critical initiative was the structuring of the company’s legal compliance matrix, along with the development of a process manual. These tools serve as a comprehensive repository of the legal obligations across various areas of the organisation, ensuring that all departments are aware of their responsibilities and the applicable deadlines. Moreover, I played a key role in the legal aspects of the 20-year investment plan agreed upon with the National Infrastructure Agency (ANI) for the extension of our port concession contract, a pivotal part of our long-term operational strategy.

In your opinion, what are the main trends that are salient in your country currently (these can be legal, political, economy or business-based)?   

In terms of current trends in Colombia, I believe that modern legal departments must balance three essential elements to be effective. Firstly, compliance must be at the core of any legal department’s work; without solid legal compliance, a department cannot be successful. Secondly, legal teams must act as true partners to the business, working closely with other departments to achieve the company’s goals. Lastly, this partnership and compliance focus must be executed in a fast-paced environment, where the ability to deliver timely and accurate legal advice is critical to the department’s and the organisation’s success. This combination of compliance, collaboration, and speed is essential for modern legal departments to thrive in today’s dynamic business landscape.