Famous Spanish Business People

Amancio Ortega Gaona is a Spanish billionaire businessman known for founding and chairing the Inditex fashion group, famous for Zara and Bershka clothing stores. He is recognized as a trailblazer in fast fashion. With a net worth of $73 billion as of November 2023, he ranks among the wealthiest individuals globally. Ortega briefly held the title of the world's richest person in 2015. He stands as the head of the Ortega family and is acclaimed as the second wealthiest retailer worldwide.

John Casablancas was an American modeling agent and scout known for founding Elite Model Management. He revolutionized the industry by introducing the supermodel concept, propelling models to stardom. His keen eye for talent and innovative approach to marketing reshaped the modeling world, making Elite a powerhouse in the industry. Casablancas' influence extended beyond traditional standards, paving the way for new definitions of beauty and success. His legacy as a visionary and trendsetter continues to shape the modeling industry today.

Sandra Ortega Mera is a Spanish billionaire heiress, businesswoman, and socialite. She inherited a stake in Inditex from her mother and became Spain's richest woman. Mera also owns a share in pharmaceutical company PharmaMar. She is actively involved in the foundation her mother founded for individuals with disabilities. With a degree in psychology, Mera resides in A Coruña, Spain, and is married with three children.

Rosalía Mera was a prominent Spanish businesswoman and entrepreneur known for co-founding the Zara retail chain in 1975. Together with her then-husband, Amancio Ortega Gaona, she played a pivotal role in growing the company into the world's largest fashion retailer. Mera's business acumen and strategic vision contributed significantly to Zara's success, leading her to become the richest woman in Spain and the world's wealthiest self-made woman at the time of her passing. Her legacy as a pioneering figure in the fashion industry continues to inspire aspiring entrepreneurs globally.

Sila María Calderón Serra is a prominent Puerto Rican politician, businesswoman, and philanthropist. She made history by becoming the first female governor of Puerto Rico, serving from 2001 to 2005. Prior to her governorship, Calderón held several key governmental roles, including Secretary of State of Puerto Rico and Chief of Staff to Governor Rafael Hernández Colón. She also served as the mayor of San Juan. Throughout her career, Calderón has been known for her dedication to public service and advocacy for various social causes.

Prince Alfonso of Hohenlohe-Langenburg was a prominent Spanish businessman recognized for his contributions to the tourism industry. He played a significant role in promoting the Spanish resorts of Marbella and the Costa del Sol. His most notable achievement was the establishment of the Marbella Club Hotel, which became a luxurious and sought-after destination. Through his entrepreneurial endeavors and dedication to showcasing the beauty of the region, Prince Alfonso left a lasting impact on the hospitality sector in Spain.

Rocío Monasterio San Martín is a Spanish-Cuban architect, businesswoman, and far-right politician who is the leader of the Madrid branch of the Spanish political party Vox. She has also served as a member of the 11th term of the Assembly of Madrid. With a background in architecture, she brings a unique perspective to political leadership. As a businesswoman, she likely applies strategic thinking and decision-making skills to her political role. Her leadership in Vox demonstrates her commitment to advancing her political beliefs and advocating for her constituents.

Carlos Falcó, 5th Marquess of Griñón, had a distinguished professional life as a Spanish peer, businessman, and socialite. He was known for his title of Marquess of Griñón, but also inherited the older title of Marquess of Castel-Moncayo. Falcó was recognized for his entrepreneurial endeavors and contributions to the business world. He was respected for his social connections and involvement in high society circles. Falcó's legacy includes his notable achievements as a successful businessman and influential figure in Spanish society.

Daniel Carasso was a key figure in the multinational company Danone, founded by his father Isaac Carasso. Continuing the family legacy, Daniel played a crucial role in expanding the company's reach and success globally. He demonstrated exceptional leadership and business acumen, contributing significantly to the growth and development of Danone. Through his strategic decisions and vision, Daniel Carasso solidified the company's position as a major player in the food and beverage industry, leaving a lasting impact on the business world.

Lorenzo Sanz Mancebo was a Spanish businessman known for his significant contributions to the world of football. He served as the 14th President of Real Madrid, where he played a pivotal role in the club's success, including winning two UEFA Champions League titles. Sanz also owned Málaga, further showcasing his influence in Spanish football. Throughout his career, he was respected for his strategic vision, leadership skills, and dedication to the sport, leaving a lasting impact on the teams he was involved with.

Emilio Botín was a prominent Spanish banker who served as the executive chairman of Grupo Santander. Under his leadership, the bank experienced significant growth and expansion through strategic mergers and acquisitions, including the absorption of Banesto and the merger with Banco Central Hispano to create Banco Santander Central Hispano (BSCH). Botín was recognized for his relentless focus on performance and growth, often personally visiting branches to ensure operational excellence. His vision and leadership helped establish BSCH as one of the largest banks in Europe.

Elena Ochoa Foster, Lady Foster of Thames Bank, is a prominent Spanish figure known for her roles as a publisher, art curator, and former professor of psychopathology. She is recognized as the founder and CEO of Ivorypress, a renowned publishing company. Throughout her career, Elena has made significant contributions to the art world through her work in promoting artists and their creations. Her diverse background in academia and the arts has shaped her into a respected and influential figure within the cultural sphere.

Hans Heinrich Thyssen-Bornemisza was a prominent Dutch-born Swiss industrialist and art collector. He was a member of the Thyssen family and inherited a substantial German fortune. Throughout his career, Thyssen made significant contributions to the industrial sector and gained recognition for his vast art collection. He resided in Spain for most of his adult life and was known for his business acumen and passion for art. Thyssen's legacy extends beyond his professional achievements, leaving a lasting impact on both the business and art worlds.

Joseph de la Vega was a versatile figure, excelling as a diamond merchant, moral philosopher, and poet in Amsterdam. He held prominent roles in literary academies and authored seven published works, notably the influential "Confusion of Confusions" focusing on the Amsterdam Stock Exchange. Additionally, de la Vega's legacy includes over 200 letters penned to various European statesmen. His career was marked by a dedication to literature, philosophy, and the financial world, showcasing his multifaceted talents and intellectual pursuits.

Rodrigo de Rato y Figaredo is a businessman and politician who has held prominent positions in both the Spanish government and international financial institutions. He served in the Council of Ministers of Spain from 1996 to 2004 and later became the managing director of the International Monetary Fund from 2004 to 2007. Additionally, he was the president of Bankia from 2010 to 2012. However, his career has been marred by legal issues, including being found guilty of embezzlement and sentenced to imprisonment in 2017.

Eduardo Sánchez Junco was a prominent figure in the publishing industry, known for his visionary approach and dedication to ¡HOLA! magazine. Taking over the helm of the business after his father's passing, he expanded the company internationally, launching Hello! magazine in Britain. His strategic leadership led to the establishment of 14 national editions of ¡HOLA!, reaching millions of readers worldwide. Eduardo's publishing philosophy focused on offering light-hearted entertainment with taste and discretion, ensuring the continued success of the magazine.

Jesús de Polanco, a Spanish businessman, is renowned for establishing a vast media empire, earning him a spot as one of Spain's wealthiest individuals in 2005. Recognized on Forbes magazine's World's Richest People list, he held a prominent position as the third richest person in Spain. Beyond his business ventures, Jesús de Polanco was actively involved in politics, showcasing a multifaceted career that spanned media, finance, and public service, solidifying his legacy as a prominent figure in both business and politics.

Quique Dacosta is a prominent Spanish chef known for his ownership of Quique Dacosta Restaurante. Beginning his culinary journey in 1986, he transitioned to working at the restaurant in 1988, eventually taking over as its owner. Dacosta's influence extends beyond his restaurant, as he also holds the directorship of the Hotel Mandarin Oriental Ritz. Renowned as one of Spain's top chefs, Dacosta's professional life is characterized by his culinary expertise, leadership in the restaurant industry, and his role within the hospitality sector.

Martín Berasategui Olazábal is a renowned Spanish chef specializing in Basque cuisine, known for his eponymous restaurant in Lasarte-Oria, Spain, which holds three Michelin stars since 2001. He started his culinary journey at a young age in his parents' restaurant and quickly rose to prominence, earning multiple Michelin stars across his various establishments. Berasategui has made significant contributions to the culinary world, receiving accolades and awards for his exceptional skills and innovative approach to gastronomy, solidifying his position as one of the most acclaimed chefs in Spain and globally.

François Cabarrus began his career as a financier and became known for his financial acumen and business ventures in Spain and France. He played a significant role in economic reforms, serving as a key advisor to King Charles III of Spain. Cabarrus was instrumental in restructuring public finances and promoting economic development. His entrepreneurial spirit and financial expertise earned him a reputation as a successful businessman and influential figure in both Spanish and French financial circles.

Juan Mari Arzak is a renowned Spanish chef known for his innovative approach to Basque cuisine. As the owner and chef of Arzak restaurant, he has gained international acclaim for his inventive and avant-garde cooking style. Arzak is considered a pioneer in the New Basque cuisine movement, blending traditional Basque flavors with modern techniques. His cooking is characterized by a focus on evolution and experimentation, resulting in a unique and distinctive culinary experience that has solidified his reputation as a master of his craft.

Santi Santamaria was a renowned Spanish Catalan avant-garde chef known for his innovative approach to traditional Catalan cuisine and slow food. He achieved significant acclaim in the culinary world by being the first Catalan chef to earn three Michelin stars for his restaurant Can Fabes in 1994. Additionally, his second restaurant, Sant Celoni, received two Michelin stars. Santamaria was recognized for his focus on utilizing fresh Mediterranean ingredients in his modern culinary interpretations. He also stirred controversy by criticizing the molecular gastronomy of other Spanish chefs, particularly Ferran Adrià. Tragically, he passed away in 2011 due to a heart attack while at his restaurant in Marina Bay Sands, Singapore.

Carme Ruscalleda is a renowned Spanish chef known for her exceptional culinary skills. She owns and manages multiple Michelin-starred restaurants in Catalonia, Spain, and Japan. With a focus on Catalan tradition and quality seasonal products, her cuisine reflects a blend of local and global influences. Ruscalleda is also a prolific author, having published several books on Mediterranean cuisine. She continues to make waves in the culinary world, overseeing acclaimed restaurants and earning numerous Michelin stars, solidifying her status as a leading female chef globally.

Elena Cué is a prominent Spanish businesswoman, art expert, and writer with a background in philosophy. She is known for her contributions to the field of art through publishing articles and conducting interviews with renowned artists for various publications. Elena serves as the president of the Alberto and Elena Cortina Foundation, focusing on social works alongside her husband. Additionally, she has achieved recognition in the sports arena by winning the Spanish shooting championship and finishing as runner-up in the European championship.