The SEPI strengthens its presence in the satellite operator after acquiring 2.91% of the CDTI’s stake.
The Board of Directors of Hispasat has approved the appointment of Juan Carlos Cortés, the current director of the Spanish Space Agency (AEE), as a new board member of the company. The proposal, presented by the State Society for Industrial Participations (SEPI), was formalized following the recent acquisition of 2.91% of the stake held by the Center for Technological Development and Innovation (CDTI) in the satellite operator.
Cortés’ incorporation strengthens the institutional ties between the Spanish public space sector and one of the strategic companies in satellite communications. His background in key organizations such as CDTI, ESA, and EUSPA adds significant value at a crucial time for the expansion of satellite services in Europe and Latin America.
### Background and Technical Profile
Juan Carlos Cortés holds an aerospace engineering degree from the Polytechnic University of Madrid (UPM) and has solid managerial training, including a Master’s in Business Management, the Executive Development Program (PDD) from IESE, and a diploma in National Defense from CESEDEN. He was appointed director of the Spanish Space Agency on May 15, 2024, and currently serves as head of the Spanish delegation to the European Space Agency (ESA), elected vice president of its Council, and representative of Spain at the EU Space Agency (EUSPA).
This is not the first time Cortés has held a seat on the Hispasat Board: he was part of it from 2013 to 2023 during his time as director of International Programs at CDTI.
### Hispasat: Connectivity, Innovation, and Audiovisual Leadership
Hispasat continues to solidify its role as a driver of the Spanish aerospace sector, with a particular focus on expanding satellite broadband to bridge the digital divide and promote sustainable development. In addition to being a connectivity link between Europe and America, the company leads the distribution of audiovisual content in Spanish and Portuguese.
The addition of Juan Carlos Cortés to its Board of Directors represents a commitment to strengthening the institution and strategy of the company within the context of its international growth and participation in the development of the European space ecosystem.