Deputy legal counsel | Banco Ganadero
Rosa María Suárez
Deputy legal counsel | Banco Ganadero
How do you approach the management of legal issues during periods of instability or crisis, and how do you align your legal strategy with the broader business strategy to ensure the resilience of the organisation?
The management of legal issues during periods of instability or crisis in our organisation is approached in a comprehensive and preventive manner, with the aim of ensuring both regulatory compliance and business continuity. To this end, regulatory monitoring systems are strengthened and specialised committees are established to quickly assess regulatory changes, new provisions from supervisory authorities and possible legal contingencies arising from the current situation.
The legal strategy is aligned with the commercial strategy through a cross-cutting support model in the design and implementation of products, services and policies. The legal department acts not only as a control body, but also as an enabler of viable and sustainable solutions from a regulatory point of view, ensuring that strategic decisions are supported by criteria of legality, transparency and protection of financial consumers.
In terms of resilience, the integration of legal and corporate strategy allows for the establishment of a robust corporate governance framework that balances regulatory requirements with profitability and growth objectives. For example, in periods of high economic volatility, the legal department works with risk management and commercial management to adapt responsible credit policies that protect the entity while offering flexible solutions to customer.
What role does the legal department play in promoting and ensuring corporate social responsibility in your organisation?
The legal department plays a fundamental role in promoting and guaranteeing corporate social responsibility (CSR) within the organisation. It participates in the structuring of sustainability projects and financial inclusion programmes, ensuring that they are aligned with current regulations. Legal support in the communication and reporting of CSR actions is equally key, as it ensures accuracy, avoids reputational risks and strengthens stakeholder confidence. In this way, the legal department acts as a guarantor that CSR is not just a voluntary practice, but a coherent and sustainable institutional commitment.
What do you think are the main legal challenges for companies in Bolivia over the next five years and how are you preparing to address them?
Several critical areas have been identified as the main legal challenges for companies in Bolivia over the next five years. Firstly, regulatory developments in finance and consumer protection will require constant adaptation of products and services, prioritising transparency and inclusion. Secondly, environmental and sustainability requirements will intensify, demanding greater responsibility in the financing of projects that meet environmental, social and governance criteria.
Another significant challenge will be digital transformation and the regulation of personal data protection, an area in which a stricter regulatory framework is expected, involving the strengthening of cybersecurity systems and the responsible management of customer information. Added to this is the challenge of strengthening mechanisms to prevent money laundering and terrorist financing, in a context where regulators and international organisations are demanding stricter controls.
