Javier Ormazabal Echevarria

Education
He studied Economics and Business Sciences at the University of the Basque Country (UPV-EHU) from 1982 to 1987 and later completed his studies at the London Business School and the IESE Business School.

Professional experience
Javier Ormazabal has developed his professional career in the Velatia family-owned business. After 3 years of experience in different departments, he took the reins of the company while leading its international expansion. Subsequently, while retaining his role as the company’s CEO, he personally oversaw market management until his promotion to the position of president in 2012.

He is President of Orgalim (Federation of Europe's technology industries); a founding member of Aefame (Basque Association of Family Businesses), where he held the position of president for 4 years (2015-2019); and a member of the Board of Directors of the Basque Business Circle, of which he was its president from 2018 to 2021.
He combines the activity of the above positions with his participation in the governing bodies of companies, associations and institutions of recognised prestige, such as: the Biscayan Federation of Metal Companies (FVEM), the BBVA Northern Regional Advisory Board, the Novia Salcedo Foundation, the Alejandro Echevarría Foundation and the El Enebro Advisory Board.

On the other hand, in the past, he held the presidency of Tecnalia Research and Innovation for six years, participated as a member of the Advisory Council for Science, Technology and Innovation of the Spanish Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness and was a member of the Board of Directors of the Energy Cluster.

Other information of interest
Different institutions and organisations have recognised Javier Ormazabal for his work, professional career and achievements, among others:

In 2010, the Basque Government awarded Javier Ormazabal the "LAN ONARI" distinction. A title that recognises people who have distinguished themselves in an extraordinary way for their dedication, perseverance and spirit of initiative in the performance of their professional activity.

The European Business School ESEUNE awarded him the title of "Master Honoris Causa (MBA)" in 2011, for his contribution to the economic and business structure.

In 2016, the University of the Basque Country named Javier Ormazabal "Honorary Professor".