Harry Aswani – LAFISE

LAFISE is a prominent financial services provider with a significant regional footprint that spans Costa Rica, El Salvador, Honduras, and the Dominican Republic, as well as representation in Mexico, Colombia, and Guatemala. In Panama, LAFISE operates a successful securities house, bank, and trust company, solidifying its position as one of the top five companies in profit growth in 2024. At the heart of this thriving organization is Harry Aswani, the vice president of legal affairs, who plays a crucial role in driving the company’s strategic legal initiatives and supporting its broader mission of growth and excellence.

Harry Aswani | LAFISE | Vice President, Legal Affairs

Aswani’s role at LAFISE is multifaceted, overseeing legal operations across various entities and shaping its organizational culture. His work ensures that LAFISE complies with local and regional regulations while fostering a collaborative environment that encourages innovation and efficiency. Known for his approachable demeanor, Aswani is a key figure in the company’s leadership, often seen as the bridge between legal complexities and the company’s broader objectives.

“As we continue to expand our footprint across the region, our success lies in our ability to navigate legal complexities while fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation,” Aswani says.

Enhancing efficiency in legal processes

One of Aswani’s most impactful contributions to LAFISE has been improving the legal department’s response time. Recognizing the importance of efficiency in legal processes, Aswani spearheaded a project to optimize document management and automate the flow of contractual processes. This initiative has reduced turnaround times and enhanced the company’s operational efficiency, enabling LAFISE to respond more swiftly to market opportunities and regulatory requirements.

Another key project under Aswani’s leadership involved streamlining the legal procedures across  LAFISE’s local operations. By standardizing contracts and implementing automated systems, he has ensured that the legal department can manage the growing demands of a fast-paced company. This project has been vital in maintaining consistency and compliance across the different regions where LAFISE operates, further solidifying the company’s reputation for reliability and professionalism.

“By streamlining our legal processes and embracing automation, we’ve improved efficiency and positioned LAFISE to seize new opportunities and maintain our reputation for excellence across all our operations,” Aswani says.

Looking ahead, Aswani is focused on consolidating his position at  LAFISE further and expanding his leadership role. As one of the youngest members in senior management in local banking, he is committed to refining his legal expertise and helping the bank and his team to grow. He envisions pursuing an MBA to enhance his leadership skills and continue driving LAFISE’s success in an increasingly competitive market.

Prioritizing team development

Aswani’s leadership style is characterized by his commitment to fostering a positive organizational culture. He believes that a strong, collaborative environment is essential for achieving the company’s goals. To this end, he has worked diligently to implement an open-door policy within the legal department, breaking down barriers and encouraging open communication. By understanding his team members’ personal and professional needs, Aswani has cultivated an atmosphere of trust and mutual respect, which has been instrumental in retaining top talent and driving the team’s success.

Recruiting and retaining talented professionals is a priority for Aswani. He understands that the strength of LAFISE’s legal team is crucial to the company’s ability to navigate complex financial landscapes and regulatory challenges. By prioritizing the development of his team members and providing growth opportunities, Aswani has ensured that LAFISE attracts top talent and retains it, contributing to the company’s long-term success.

“A positive and collaborative culture is the key to achieving our goals. By fostering open communication and investing in our team, we attract top talent and build a foundation for long-term success.” Aswani says.

Aswani’s journey with LAFISE is a testament to his dedication to personal and professional growth. His leadership, marked by a deep commitment to efficiency, collaboration, and talent development, propels LAFISE forward, ensuring that the company remains a financial and trust services industry leader.

A strong legal foundation

Aswani’s legal career began with his undergraduate studies at Universidad Católica Santa María La Antigua, where he earned his Bachelor of Laws Degree. During this time, he gained a comprehensive understanding of Panamanian and international law, complemented by internships at the Red Cross and in maritime law.

After graduation, Aswani joined a boutique law firm in Panama, starting as a litigation intern. His dedication and aptitude quickly earned him promotions to associate and junior roles, paving the way for further advancement—while working, he also earned a master’s degree in taxes and tax planning studies.

In 2017, driven by a desire to expand his expertise, Aswani was awarded a Chevening Scholarship, enabling him to pursue a Master of Laws in Transnational Law at King’s College London. This experience was transformative, giving him deep insights into corporate governance, commercial arbitration, and human rights law. An internship at the DLA Piper law firm in London, secured through a serendipitous encounter, further enriched his legal experience, particularly in international litigation and financial transactions.

Returning to Panama in 2019, Aswani resumed his work at the boutique firm with a renewed focus on transnational and financial law. Today, as vice president of legal affairs at LAFISE, Aswani leverages his broad legal knowledge and global perspective to drive the company’s legal strategies with confidence and precision.