What has been the number one challenge that has impacted you over the past year?

The number one challenge during the past year was launching a consent solicitation process related to Hunt’s $600m, 6.375% interest rate bonds due 2028, to allow Hunt to: (i) incur an increase in its working capital facility to up to $100m; and (ii) incur debt not to exceed 5% of its consolidated net tangible assets. Subsequently, the company was successful at negotiating an amended and restated working capital facility with four participating Peruvian banks (as opposed to one bank that was the current lender) within the terms of the consent provided by the bondholders and an amendment to its retention event trust agreement, to incorporate the new lenders to the facility, incorporate an administrative agent for the benefit of the lenders thereof and introduce the necessary conforming amendments.

Looking forward, what technological advancements do you feel will impact the role of in-house legal teams in the future the most?

For sure, in-house legal teams will be impacted by technological advancements the same way as technology is currently impacting other areas of business. Legal processes will need to be improved with technology that allows legal and compliance management; it will be crucial to automate data to reduce possible legal errors. General counsel will need to ensure a proactive technological transition in their area, identifying specific issues that can be solved with automation. Automation will help manage corporate transactions and foresee and avoid legal risks, helping the company to generate business sustainability over time.

What is a cause, business related or otherwise, that you care about, and why?      

I care about companies assuming the challenge to grow within a sustainable environment, where they incorporate high standard environmental practices to minimise their negative impacts including but not limited to climate change; where they adopt inclusion policies and provide education and strategies to the communities in their influence areas that allow them to seek a honest and sustainable way of life; and that also care about complying with world class industry standards, behave as reasonable and prudent operators, implement compliance programs to ensure that they comply with the law and with their obligations and, in general, develop their business according to high standards and values. Not adopting an ESG sustainable path, can be very disruptive to the company’s business and even more disruptive to future generations.