Luis Alberto Ulla

Luis Alberto Ulla is a key figure in the development of corporate social responsibility in Latin America. As Executive Director of IARSE, he has driven the integration of sustainability into corporate management, building strategic alliances among companies, communities, and organizations. His ethical vision and professional approach make him a benchmark in socially impactful leadership.

Academic Background and Early Career

Luis Alberto Ulla holds a degree in Social Work from the National University of Córdoba, where he graduated with top academic honors. His academic background was enriched by further specialization in social planning at the University of Costa Rica, supported by a scholarship from the Inter-American Development Bank, and in SME management and innovation at the School of Industrial Organization in Madrid, funded by the Ibero-American Cooperation Institute.

During the 1980s, Ulla served as Program Director at the Banco de la Provincia de Córdoba Foundation, where he designed and implemented initiatives focused on social and community development. His early commitment to education and youth was reflected in his active participation in NGOs and foundations dedicated to sustainability and social responsibility.

Leadership at Fundación Arcor and the Professionalization of Social Investment

In 1994, Ulla took over as Manager of Fundación Arcor, the corporate foundation of the multinational Argentine group known for producing confectionery and food products. His leadership focused on professionalizing the company’s social engagement through structured programs and community partnerships. Under his guidance, the foundation adopted the concept of “social investment,” moving beyond traditional philanthropy toward strategic, impact-oriented interventions.

He promoted strategic partnerships with other foundations and organizations—such as the Inter-American Foundation, Fundación Antorchas, and UNICEF Argentina—to maximize the effectiveness of social initiatives. He also encouraged active community participation in the design and execution of projects, fostering autonomy and leadership among local organizations.

Co-founder and Executive Director of IARSE

In 2000, Ulla co-founded the Argentine Institute for Corporate Social Responsibility (IARSE), a nonprofit organization committed to promoting and disseminating best practices in sustainability and responsible business. As Executive Director, he has led the institution’s expansion across Argentina and into several Latin American countries.

Under his stewardship, IARSE has become a leading voice in corporate ethics, organizational governance, and sustainable development. The institute has developed practical tools and methodologies to help companies integrate social responsibility into their business strategies, with a focus on achieving triple bottom line performance—economic, social, and environmental.

Academic Work and International Engagement

Beyond his executive role, Ulla has had an influential academic career. He was a tenured professor of Corporate Social Responsibility in the MBA program at the National University of Cuyo and has also taught at the Catholic University of Córdoba, covering subjects such as business ethics and NGO management.

His international involvement includes serving as a member of the International Advisory Board of Instituto Ethos in Brazil, a leading organization in CSR in Latin America. He has also served on the boards of Fundación SES (Sustainability, Education, and Solidarity) and Fundación ACUDE (Environment, Culture, and Development), both of which focus on sustainable education and community development.

Influence and Vision in the Field of Sustainability

Luis Ulla is widely recognized for his strategic vision in integrating social responsibility into business leadership. He consistently emphasizes that sustainable practices are not merely ethical imperatives but also competitive advantages in an increasingly demanding global market. In public forums, he has underscored that social responsibility is not a passing trend but a necessary evolution for building fairer and more sustainable societies.

Through his leadership at IARSE and other initiatives, Ulla has helped shape a corporate culture that values social and environmental well-being as essential elements of long-term success. His advocacy has positioned CSR as a core pillar in business strategy across Argentina and Latin America.