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 managing legal issues during periods of instability or crisis, our approach focuses on risk management and alignment with our business objectives.  We establish crisis management protocols that include understanding and assessing risk, analysing potential consequences, scenario planning and clear communication channels to ensure coordinated responses. Our legal strategy is designed to meet corporate objectives and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, maintaining stakeholder trust. We align our legal strategy with business strategy by working closely with other departments, to anticipate potential challenges, measure tolerable risk, and implement effective mitigation measures. This integrated approach enables us to navigate uncertainties while maintaining business continuity. 

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

We actively participate in the expansion project of the Transformer Factory in Pereira, Risaralda with the objective of increasing production capacity, and meeting the high demand for transformers not only in Latin America, but also in the United States, Canada and Europe. Currently, the plant has a transformer production capacity of more than 15 thousand units per year and has achieved an increase in exports by 500%. The most important challenge was to execute the expansion project and at the same time have the factory at its maximum productive capacity and meet delivery commitments. This not only meant the negotiation of contracts associated with modernisation such as the purchase of machinery, civil works, among others, but also the negotiation of multiple contracts with clients and measurement of possible impacts.  

Additionally, the high demand for goods and services in the electrical sector worldwide led Hitachi Energy Colombia to negotiate multiple contracts for the development of sustainable energy projects and modernisation of the energy system in Latin America. 

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 such as artificial intelligence (AI), and data analytics may have a significant impact the legal profession. AI can streamline contract analysis in accordance with current legislation and corporate policies, legal research enhancing efficiency and accuracy. Blockchain offers secure record of contracts. Data analytics enable deeper insights into legal outcomes, allowing for more informed decision-making. To stay updated on these developments, we engage in continuous learning through professional networks, industry conferences, and specialised training programs. Additionally, we participate in pilot projects to explore these technologies into our legal processes. 

How do you prioritise diversity and inclusion within your legal department, and what initiatives have you implemented to foster a more inclusive and equitable work environment?   

Prioritising diversity and inclusion (D&I) within our legal department is a fundamental aspect of our organisational culture and values. We foster an inclusive and equitable work environment. This includes establishing clear D&I goals, promoting diverse hiring practices, and ensuring equal opportunities for career advancement. We have implemented initiatives such as actively seek diverse talent during recruitment processes, collaborate with HR to ensure inclusive job descriptions, review and update policies to ensure equity, consider flexible work arrangements to accommodate diverse needs, ensure senior leaders champion diversity and hold themselves accountable and employee resource groups to support underrepresented groups. By embedding D&I into our core values and daily operations, we aim to cultivate a workplace where all employees feel valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their best.