Luis Carlos Pinilla Velandia,
Full birth given name, Luis Carlos Pinilla Velandia. It is customary in Colombia, where I was born to carry both surnames of my parents. I remember in my school days in La Salle high school, in Cartagena - Colombia, when the teachers in each class would take attendance. The teachers would call you by your father's surname, followed by your mother's surname followed by your first and second names. In my case it would be Pinilla Velandia Luis Carlos. Interesting story because when I became a resident and later a citizen of the United States of America, I had to choose one first and one last name. In my case I decided both first and middle names and my father’s last name, Luis C. Pinilla
I have lived and worked most of my life in the United States, a country I love, respect, and bless.
I came to the USA with the purpose of studying and returning to Colombia to follow the family business. My parents were very enterprising people of solid character, virtue, loyalty, and principles.
Since very early age, and especially being educated all my life under Catholicism, I learned what I believe is the pillar of my life, the respect and love for God and family.
I am passionate and always fascinated in getting to know cultures, people, thoughts, art, music, dance, movies, history, mythology, and beliefs.
During my student life in Chicago, in 1983 I met what is now my wife and mother of four lovely children. My beloved Yanina. From the moment I saw her, without having spoken to her, I knew she would be my wife and the love of my life. My parents were obviously not very happy with my decision not to return to Colombia as we had agreed.
For 33 years I worked with Panasonic USA in various positions, from manufacturing plant, development, engineering, marketing, and sales. My last job assignment with Panasonic was as national distribution sales manager for the scanner line and Office Automation products.
On February 10, 2020 I started the position of Sales Manager for Latin America, including the Caribbean, with Panini. I have always been attracted by the dynamics, challenges, and potential of business in Latin America.
In this new career and opportunity as manager of Panini for LATAM, I will strive to continue to make Panini a company of preference through the region with a solid characteristic of being a company easy to do business with.
Panini is a global company with many years of experience and recognized worldwide. We have a very professional and visionary team.
To close this brief note, I can only thank God for continuing to give me so many blessings. To the Panini organization and partners, I know that together we will come out ahead in these challenging and difficult times, God is present!
Respectfully,
Luis C. Pinilla
Sales Manager, LATAM
