ISA Announces Departure of Executive Linked to Former Medellín Mayor
Interconexión Eléctrica S.A. E.S.P. (ISA), a subsidiary of Grupo Ecopetrol, announced on March 6, 2026, the departure of Jhonatan Estiven Villada Palacio from his position as Director of Corporate Procurement. The move follows scrutiny regarding his appointment and alleged political ties to former Medellín Mayor Daniel Quintero Calle, as well as questions surrounding projects in Peru. The company stated that Villada’s responsibilities have been temporarily assumed by another member of the organization while a permanent replacement is sought.
This personnel change occurs within a broader context of increased oversight of ISA’s operations and a reevaluation of appointments made during the tenure of former General Manager Jorge Andrés Carrillo Cardoso. The situation highlights the growing importance of transparency and accountability within Colombia’s energy sector, particularly as companies like ISA navigate complex international projects and heightened public interest in governance. ISA is a major player in the Latin American energy infrastructure landscape, operating a vast network of transmission lines and involved in several key energy projects across the region.
The departure of Villada is not an isolated incident. Several individuals with connections to Quintero’s political circle who had been appointed to positions within ISA during the previous administration are reportedly leaving the organization, signaling a potential shift in leadership, and priorities. This follows judicial decisions and administrative changes that have impacted ISA’s leadership structure. The company’s response to these developments will be closely watched by investors and stakeholders.
Background: The Appointment and Subsequent Scrutiny
Jhonatan Villada Palacio’s arrival at ISA initially drew criticism due to his perceived closeness to Daniel Quintero Calle. He was identified as a close associate of the former mayor, raising concerns about potential conflicts of interest and the influence of political connections on corporate decision-making. His appointment took place during Carrillo Cardoso’s leadership, a period that has since come under public scrutiny.
The concerns surrounding Villada extended beyond his political affiliations. He also became a figure of interest in connection with the Yapai project in Peru, a venture that sparked questions about contractual decisions and procurement processes. These issues contributed to a broader wave of scrutiny regarding the management practices of certain ISA executives during that period. The Yapai project, intended to bolster Peru’s energy infrastructure, faced delays and allegations of irregularities, prompting investigations into the bidding and contracting procedures.
Carlos Augusto Quintero Monsalve Assumes Interim Role
Following Villada’s departure, Carlos Augusto Quintero Monsalve has been appointed as the interim Director of Corporate Procurement. According to ISA’s official statement, Quintero has been with the organization for over 13 years, currently serving as the Coordinator of Procurement Categories. He brings significant experience to the role, having previously held positions as Acting Director of Procurement, as well as an analyst and specialist in the same area.
Quintero’s experience also extends to ISA Energía in Peru, where he served as the Acting Submanager of Procurement. This international experience is considered valuable as ISA continues to manage its operations and projects across Latin America. He holds a degree in Production Engineering from Universidad EAFIT and a specialization in Engineering Management from Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana. ISA highlighted Quintero’s 25+ years of professional experience, including prior roles at Papelsa and Prebel, demonstrating a consistent track record within the industry.
The Quintero Connection and Political Implications
The relationship between Jhonatan Villada and Daniel Quintero Calle has been a central point of contention surrounding Villada’s appointment and subsequent departure. Quintero, during his time as Mayor of Medellín, pursued a progressive agenda and faced numerous challenges, including allegations of political interference and corruption. Villada’s association with Quintero raised questions about whether his appointment was based on merit or political patronage.
The scrutiny of Villada’s ties to Quintero is part of a larger investigation into the former mayor’s administration and its connections to various entities, including ISA. El Colombiano reported in late 2025 that Quintero faced increasing legal pressure related to alleged corruption during his tenure, and the investigations are ongoing into 2026. The situation underscores the importance of maintaining ethical standards and transparency in the relationship between government officials and state-owned or publicly traded companies.
ISA’s Response and Future Outlook
ISA has stated that it is committed to conducting a thorough and transparent selection process to identify a permanent replacement for Villada. The company emphasized its dedication to upholding the highest standards of corporate governance and ethical conduct. This commitment is crucial for maintaining investor confidence and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the organization.
The changes at ISA reflect a broader trend of increased scrutiny of state-owned enterprises and a growing demand for accountability from public officials. The company’s ability to navigate these challenges and maintain its position as a leading energy infrastructure provider in Latin America will depend on its commitment to transparency, ethical conduct, and sound corporate governance. The ongoing investigations and personnel changes are likely to continue to attract attention from regulators, investors, and the public.
The situation at ISA also highlights the complexities of operating in the energy sector, particularly in emerging markets. Companies like ISA face a range of challenges, including political risks, regulatory uncertainties, and environmental concerns. Successfully navigating these challenges requires a strong commitment to ethical conduct, transparency, and stakeholder engagement.
As ISA moves forward, the focus will be on restoring public trust and ensuring that its operations are conducted with the highest level of integrity. The company’s next steps will be closely monitored by stakeholders, and its ability to address the concerns raised by Villada’s departure will be critical to its long-term success. The company has not yet announced a timeline for the selection of a permanent Director of Corporate Procurement, but it has assured stakeholders that the process will be conducted in a timely and transparent manner.
Key Takeaways:
- Jhonatan Villada Palacio has left his position as Director of Corporate Procurement at ISA.
- His departure follows scrutiny regarding his ties to former Medellín Mayor Daniel Quintero Calle and controversies surrounding projects in Peru.
- Carlos Augusto Quintero Monsalve has been appointed as interim Director of Corporate Procurement.
- The situation highlights the importance of transparency and accountability within Colombia’s energy sector.
The ongoing investigations related to Daniel Quintero’s administration and the broader implications for ISA’s governance will continue to unfold in the coming months. We will continue to monitor these developments and provide updates as they become available. Share your thoughts on this developing story in the comments below.