Key skills and expertise

With 29 years of experience, the expert excels in managing European funds and developing international projects. Initiatives have been led under programs such as Horizon 2020, ERDF, and ESF, focusing on innovation, SME competitiveness, and regional development. As European Funds Director at Finnova Foundation, responsibilities include managing projects and mentoring SMEs. Previously, roles such as General Director of European Funds in Valencia involved coordinating significant regional programs. Technical skills encompass project management, evaluation, and strategic planning, supported by a PRINCE2® certification. Accomplishments include the successful negotiation and implementation of complex international cooperation projects.

Project experience and donor exposure

The expert has collaborated with the European Commission on several international development cooperation projects, particularly within the Directorate General for Education and Culture. Involvement included technical and financial proposal evaluation, project coordination, and providing technical assistance for programs such as Leonardo da Vinci and the Phare Multicountry Programme. These projects focused on vocational training and technological innovation, with a regional scope covering European countries such as Spain, France, and other Mediterranean nations. Contributions have enhanced education and training systems across these regions.

Sectors and geographic focus

The expert has worked across sectors including fundraising, urban development, training, public administration, and SME development. Leadership roles such as European Funds Director and General Director of European Funds involved managing projects and strategic initiatives. Interdisciplinary expertise spans innovation and European development, integrating digitalization and sustainability into regional projects. The work has primarily focused on European regions, with significant contributions to regional governance and development in Spain and broader European territories. Extensive experience in European regions, particularly in Spain, France, and Brussels, highlights deep familiarity with European governance and regional development issues, including long-term assignments and project coordination across various European territories.

Languages and education

Bringing proficiency in Spanish, English, and French, the expert demonstrates C1 level in English and C2 in French, according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. Linguistic skills have been utilized in multicultural environments and international teams, facilitating communication in seminars, workshops, and during project coordination across European regions. Educational background includes a degree in Naval Engineering, specializing in naval architecture from Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Spain, and a Master in Naval Architecture from ENSTA ParisTech, France. Further expertise in public administration was gained through the Leadership Program for Public Sector Management at IESE Business School, University of Navarra, Spain. These academic qualifications underline a strong foundation in engineering and public sector governance.