Vicente del Bosque Steps Down from Iberdrola's Advisory Role After a Decade
Vicente del Bosque has officially resigned from his position as advisor at Iberdrola Energía España, a subsidiary of the prominent Basque energy company. This decision marks the end of his tenure, which spanned over ten years, as he chose to leave the role at the conclusion of 2024.
Sources familiar with the matter indicate that the departure was amicable, with the 74-year-old former football player and coach opting to step back from his responsibilities. Although Iberdrola representatives have declined to provide any comments regarding his exit, Del Bosque's influence in the company has been notable since he began his association with the firm in 2010, coinciding with his historic success in leading Spain to its first World Cup victory that year.
Initially, Del Bosque served as an advisor for Iberdrola Generación, the division focused on energy generation in Spain, before it was rebranded. His role within the company continued while he was still managing the Spanish national team, a position he held until his departure in 2016, shortly after the team faced elimination in the Euro 2016 tournament.
Having been born in Salamanca, Del Bosque shares his roots with Ignacio Sánchez Galán, the president of Iberdrola. Both men, born in 1950, have established a connection that extends beyond their birthplace. The company has a long-standing relationship with the Spanish national football team, having sponsored it during its peak years from 2008 to 2012, a period that saw Spain achieve remarkable success including two European Championships and one World Cup.
Del Bosque's legacy at Iberdrola is notable, not only for his own contributions but also for the company's broader strategic relationships. His seat at the table has been shared with other distinguished figures, such as Juan Ramón Urrutia Ybarra, a prominent businessman connected to one of the wealthiest families in the Basque Country. Urrutia Ybarra's ties to the business community mirror Del Bosque's influence in sports.
Presently, Iberdrola Energía España continues to evolve, now featuring Pedro Díaz Mesonero as an independent external advisor, a role previously held by Del Bosque. Mesonero, also a Salamanca native, is recognized for his entrepreneurial ventures in media and other sectors. His background complements the diverse expertise within the firm's advisory board.
Del Bosque's resignation comes amidst various leadership changes within Iberdrola. Recently, Ana Colonqués was appointed to the board of Iberdrola SA, succeeding María Helena Antolín. Colonqués had previously held advisory roles within the company, indicating a continuity of experienced leadership.
Additionally, David Mesonero, the global development director, has taken on a new role as a board member for Iberdrola's Mexican subsidiary, following a successful divestiture of combined cycle plants in the region, which has been regarded as a strategic move.
The reshuffling within the company also includes Ángel Acebes, a former Spanish interior minister, who has taken on the role of coordinating advisor, enhancing his influence within the corporate structure after successfully navigating legal challenges in the past. Other politicians have similarly found roles within Iberdrola's advisory boards, showcasing the company's blend of corporate and political expertise.
While Del Bosque's departure represents a significant shift for Iberdrola, it also underscores the dynamic nature of leadership in the energy sector, reflecting broader trends within the industry.
