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? 

During periods of instability or crisis, such as the one caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, we adapted to remote work, ensuring that our legal team remained fully operational and accessible despite the challenges posed by the pandemic. This transition required us to implement robust digital tools and secure communication channels to maintain efficiency and collaboration. 

In alignment with the broader business strategy, our legal department played a critical role in supporting the commercial team by conducting thorough legal analyses of new business opportunities that arose during the crisis. For instance, we provided legal support for entering the emerging markets for alcohol sales, particularly in the pharmaceutical sector, which was a significant shift in response to the increased demand for sanitizing products. 

By closely aligning our legal strategy with the commercial strategy, we ensured that our organization could pivot effectively and capitalize on new market opportunities while maintaining legal and regulatory integrity. 

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

During the year 2023, I participated in structuring contracts for the pre-operational phase of the biomass energy cogeneration expansion project. I am also part of incorporating compliance clauses into company contracts to prevent risks related to money laundering and terrorist financing. 

What measures has your company taken to embed sustainability practices into its core business operations, and how does the role of the general counsel contribute to driving and ensuring sustainable practices within the company? 

At Manuelita, we have taken significant steps to embed sustainability practices into our core business operations. During 2023, we certified 170,308 carbon credits through our biomass-based electric power cogeneration project, demonstrating our commitment to reducing emissions and combating climate change. Additionally, we have continued our support for Compromiso Valle, an initiative aimed at transforming the social and economic dynamics of vulnerable populations in seven municipalities in Valle del Cauca, Colombia, creating 30 jobs for vulnerable youth. 

Moreover, by the end of 2023, Manuelita had generated 183 jobs for young people as part of the Compromiso Rural project, which is developed in partnership with sugar mills affiliated with Asocaña. This initiative not only provides employment opportunities but also fosters economic growth and development in rural areas. 

The role of the general counsel at Manuelita is crucial in driving and ensuring sustainable practices within the company. Our legal team has been instrumental in identifying and complying with legal regulations related to sustainability, establishing necessary controls to ensure adherence to these standards. This includes actively participating in the development and implementation of our sustainability strategies, ensuring that our operations align with both national and international sustainability regulations. 

By integrating these measures, we are not only contributing to environmental preservation and social development but also ensuring that sustainability remains a fundamental aspect of our business operations.