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? 

My approach to managing legal aspects is grounded in several key principles: (i) maintaining continuous communication with the team to ensure alignment and responsiveness; (ii) working closely with the business to integrate legal considerations seamlessly with the broader business strategy; (iii) collaborating with senior management to understand current risks and opportunities, thereby providing timely advice that supports strategic decision-making; and (iv) assessing potential risks at the earliest possible stage, proposing and implementing preventative measures to mitigate those risks effectively. 

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

Our region and country are currently facing multiple challenges, and a legal department committed to the business can add significant value. One of our main priorities at the moment is the consolidation of a comprehensive compliance program in the region to address these challenges effectively. 

On the other hand, supporting distributor markets remains a key focus. This entails not only ensuring that our distributors are well-equipped and aligned with our standards but also providing them with the necessary legal and regulatory support to navigate complex market dynamics. By fostering strong relationships with our distributors, we aim to enhance their operational efficiency and ensure seamless integration within our supply chain. Our efforts include regular training sessions, compliance audits, and strategic collaborations to address any emerging issues promptly. We believe that a proactive approach in supporting our distributor markets will lead to greater market penetration, improved customer satisfaction, and sustainable business growth. 

Furthermore, our involvement in intellectual property matters presents an exciting opportunity to contribute to the innovation landscape in Colombia. This engagement not only protects our business interests but also fosters a culture of creativity and advancement. Our involvement includes active participation in policy discussions and collaboration with industry stakeholders to address emerging challenges. By doing so, we aim to encourage sustainable growth and development in the healthcare sector. 

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?  

At Gilead, we believe that diversity enriches our workplace and strengthens our collective experience. As a company, we are committed to creating an inclusive culture that supports all employees in engaging in opportunities to foster community and build relationships. In the legal department, we firmly believe that only a diverse team, working together, can overcome the barriers to improving human health. We have implemented various initiatives to foster a more inclusive work environment. For example, the legal team worldwide has been trained to become more inclusive leaders. From an outside counsel perspective, we have shared our diverse aspirations and encouraged them to join our journey. In Colombia, the legal department is leading the consolidation of the Inclusion and Diversity Committee for Latin America mid-size markets, aiming to make a difference not only within the legal department and for employees in the organization but also for our stakeholders.