Team size: 21

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?

I oversee the integration of sustainability into our core operations and recognise the crucial role of the general counsel in driving this initiative. COFIDE’s vision and negotiations are based on our threefold impact: environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and economic viability. These aspects are reflected in our current projects and business.

During periods of instability or crisis, we ensure that our legal strategy remains agile and adaptive to changing circumstances. This involves closely monitoring regulatory developments, assessing potential legal risks, and promptly adjusting our strategies and compliance measures as needed.

Furthermore, our legal strategy is closely aligned with the broader business strategy to ensure organisational resilience. We work in tandem with other departments to identify key legal risks and opportunities that may impact the business during times of instability.

During the pandemic crisis, our legal strategy prioritised measures to enhance financial stability, such as restructuring debt agreements or renegotiating contracts to alleviate financial burdens. COFIDE, as the executing arm of the Peruvian State, contributed to generating and operating financial rescue programmes to participate in financing priority sectors identified by the Peruvian State that needed immediate attention. For example, some of the projects we advised on during the pandemic include Reactiva Perú, Bionegocios, Impulso MyPerú, and FIDER.

By aligning our legal strategy, we ensure that legal considerations are integrated into the organisation’s overall resilience-building efforts. This enables us to navigate periods of instability with confidence, safeguarding the organisation’s interests while advancing our mission of promoting inclusive, environmentally responsible economic growth in Peru.

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 COFIDE, we embed sustainability practices into our core business operations through the Sustainability and Good Corporate Governance Committee, established in line with FONAFE standards (Corporate Social Responsibility Guidelines), which are aligned with the OECD’s guidelines for State Business Activity. We also prioritise reducing environmental impact, promoting social responsibility, and cultivating an environment of trust for long-term investment, financial stability, and business integrity.

The pivotal role of the general counsel in this process cannot be overstated. They ensure that policies and actions align with sustainability regulations, mitigate legal risks, and promote compliance with ethical standards. Additionally, the general counsel collaborates on developing policies that integrate sustainability into financial and operational decisions, reinforcing our commitment to corporate responsibility and sustainable development.

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?

As a legal manager at COFIDE, fostering diversity and inclusion within our legal department is a core priority. While our team enjoys a strong and positive work environment, we recognise that true diversity extends beyond mere congeniality. To prioritise diversity and inclusion, we have implemented several initiatives: Diverse Hiring Practices, Inclusive Policies, Training and Development, Diversity Committees, Mentorship and Support Networks, Celebrating Differences, and Feedback Mechanisms. By implementing these initiatives, we strive to create a workplace where every team member feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique talents and perspectives. Our commitment to diversity and inclusion not only strengthens our team but also enhances our ability to serve our diverse client base and contribute positively to our community and society as a whole.