Our LATAM team at Vesta is growing! We’ve recently welcomed Diego Bunster to the team, who has joined us as a Legal Counsel. In this article we sat down with Diego to find out a bit more about him and his journey before joining the Vesta family.
Tell us a bit about yourself and your background
I was born and raised in Santiago, Chile. Once I finished my law degree, I moved to Panama City for an internship at a law firm for 10 months, which ended with me becoming an Associate for 3 years. I then moved to New York City for my Master’s Degree, where I joined another law firm and obtained my license to practice law in the state. After being abroad for almost 6 years, I decided that it was time to come back home to Chile, where I’ve remained since the end of 2014.
My international experience introduced me to the cross-boarder world of M&A, in which I had the opportunity to work with and learn from amazing lawyers (and even greater people). It was during this time that I discovered my passion for working internationally and meeting people from different cultures and backgrounds.
What made you choose Vesta as the next step in your career?
Before this opportunity arose, I was working in a Chilean bank. While there, we created a Venture Capital area that reminded me of how much I enjoyed working in M&A, so I began searching for opportunities within the sector. Out of nowhere, I was contacted by a head hunter friend who reached out to tell me about a UK Portfolio that was looking for a Legal Counsel in South America. It’s safe to say that I didn’t think twice!
After 2 months in the role, I am happy to say that it was definitely the right move for me. The Vesta team is amazing and were very welcoming. I already feel like I’ve worked here for years!
What are your favourite books/podcasts?
One of the books I’ve read that had the greatest impact on me is Talent is Overrated: What Really Separates World-Class Performers from Everybody Else by Geoff Colvin. The book illustrates real-world examples of leaders in their respective fields (like Mozart, Tiger Woods etc.), and shows how success is linked to practice and perseverance. It reinforces that we should never stop challenging ourselves to achieve greatness.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I’m a huge sports fan. For as long as I can remember, football has been a big part of my life, and I still play every Saturday with my friend at a competitive level. I also enjoy spending time with my family and friends, and winding down with a good movie or series.
Who inspires you?
My mother is a great example of perseverance, hard work and doing what’s necessary for the wellbeing of my family – she’s a brilliant role model. And currently, my daughter Isidora is my inspiration; I hope I can provide her with anything she needs to reach her maximum potential.
If you could learn to do absolutely anything, what would it be?
I really love cooking, and I would love to have more time to learn how to master it. I have to recognise that I use a lot of machines in the process, although I have my secrets on the BBQ!
What is your favourite quote?
“The difference between a successful person and others is not a lack of strength, not a lack of knowledge, but rather a lack of will.” – Vince Lombardi
