Early Life and Education
Florentino Pérez was born on March 8, 1947, in Hortaleza, Madrid, Spain. He attended the Polytechnic University of Madrid, where he studied civil engineering. His early life and education laid the foundation for a career that would blend engineering, politics, and sport.
Rise to Success
Pérez began his professional career in the private sector in 1971. He entered politics in 1979, serving as a member of Madrid's city council. His business career took off in 1983 when he became the top executive and main shareholder of Construcciones Padrós. This marked the beginning of his rise in the construction sector, setting the stage for his future in large corporations. In 1997, he became chairman of Actividades de Construcción y Servicios, S.A. (ACS) after a merger.
Key Business Strategies and Achievements
As the chairman and CEO of Grupo ACS, Pérez has led the company towards significant growth and international expansion. ACS is one of the leading construction companies globally, with projects across numerous countries. He holds a nearly 13% stake in ACS, the largest construction company in Spain. Pérez's strategic decisions have enabled Real Madrid to become a financial powerhouse. He implemented the 'Galácticos' policy, bringing in world-class players, boosting the club's global profile and revenue. Real Madrid has won a record number of titles during his presidency. He is known for his ability to strengthen the Real Madrid brand and improve its financial health.
Philanthropy
Florentino Pérez's philanthropic efforts are primarily channeled through the Real Madrid Foundation, which focuses on social and cultural initiatives. The foundation supports various programs aimed at promoting education and social inclusion, particularly for vulnerable children and youth. While the exact monetary amounts dedicated to these initiatives are not always disclosed, the foundation's activities represent a significant commitment to social responsibility.