It is not easy to bid him farewell. I do so with mixed emotions which are not contradictory but actually quite compatible. Friendship, affection, admiration and professional respect, a touch of sadness at his departure, and also joy, since it is his decision to initiate a new stage in his life -one that I hope will be long and full of rewarding experiences. He will also be able to devote more time to his family, something which we all often neglect due to our professional obligations.

He has been an exemplary Legal Counsel to the company -rigorous, scholarly, assertive- and has mentored many of our lawyers. I will miss his always ready advice, his deep knowledge of the law and his ability to listen and help me clarify my numerous debates about the major issues that have arisen in the Group's development down through the years. It consoles me to know that we will still be able to count on his expertise, since he will continue in as Secretary of the Board committees (Audit, and Appointments and Remuneration).

José María: many thanks for your work down through the years, for your friendship and your loyalty. In this new stage of your life, I am convinced that you will continue to witness times of splendour for our Group, signs of which are already visible on the horizon, and which will make you proud to have been, and continue to be, an FCC man.

My warmest regards,

 

Felipe B. García Pérez

Company Secretary