What: A new phase of leadership and organisational renewal at El Corte Inglés sees key executive changes, internal promotions, and a €3 billion investment plan supporting ongoing growth and modernisation.
Why it is important: El Corte Inglés’ focus on internal promotion, asset optimisation, and sustained investment highlights its commitment to growth and adaptability in a challenging market
El Corte Inglés is entering a dynamic new chapter, marked by the resignation of operations chief Javier Catena and a significant reorganisation of its fashion division. Under CEO Gastón Bottazzini, the company has promoted internal talent to key roles, dividing responsibilities among four executives in fashion and restructuring its top management to enhance agility and specialisation. Catena, who managed a €17 billion real estate portfolio and oversaw logistics and supply chain, will remain to ensure a smooth transition. These leadership changes come as the group implements a comprehensive transformation strategy, including the creation of a Transformation Office and a €3 billion investment plan through 2030. Financial performance remains robust, with a 6.7% increase in net profit and 2% revenue growth in 2024, despite a slower pace than the previous year. The company’s balanced approach to digital innovation, sustainability, and operational efficiency positions El Corte Inglés as a resilient leader, leveraging change as an opportunity for renewal and future growth.
IADS Notes: El Corte Inglés’ recent executive changes, including the departure of Javier Catena and the reorganisation of its fashion division, reflect a dynamic phase of strategic renewal and modernisation. As reported by El Confidencial in March 2025 and Modaes in June 2025, CEO Gastón Bottazzini’s leadership has ushered in a comprehensive transformation plan, with the creation of a Transformation Office and the promotion of internal talent to key positions . Catena’s stewardship of a €17 billion real estate portfolio and the group’s continued investment in logistics and store modernisation underscore the company’s commitment to operational excellence and asset optimisation. The fashion division’s restructuring, with responsibilities shared among four executives, demonstrates a focus on specialisation, agility, and continuity. Financial results remain robust, with Modaes and Fashion Network (July 2025) reporting a 6.7% increase in net profit and a €3 billion investment plan through 2030, reinforcing the group’s long-term confidence and growth trajectory . America Retail (February 2025) and Press Release (June 2025) further highlight El Corte Inglés’ balanced approach to digital innovation, sustainability, and operational efficiency, positioning the company as a resilient leader in the evolving retail landscape . Collectively, these developments show that El Corte Inglés is leveraging change as an opportunity for renewal, building on its heritage while embracing innovation and future growth.