Early Life
Germán Larrea Mota-Velasco was born on October 26, 1953, in Mexico City, Mexico. He is the son of Jorge Larrea Ortega, who was involved in the metallurgical and steel industries. Larrea studied Business Administration at Universidad Anáhuac. From a young age, he was immersed in the business world, following in his father's footsteps.
Rise to Success
Larrea's career began in 1978 when he founded Grupo Impresa, a printing and publishing company, where he served as Chairman and CEO until 1989. In 1981, he joined Grupo México, which was established by his father. He became Chairman, President, and CEO of Grupo México in 1994. Under his leadership, Grupo México expanded its operations beyond mining to venture into the transportation sector. In 1997, Larrea became Chairman and CEO of Grupo Ferroviario Mexicano, overseeing the largest railroad network in Mexico.
Key Business Strategies
Larrea has been instrumental in Grupo México's strategic acquisitions and expansions, solidifying its position in key industries. A pivotal move was the acquisition of copper mines in Cananea and Nacozari after the state mining company's bankruptcy. Larrea transformed Grupo México into a multinational conglomerate by diversifying the company's activities. He expanded into the transportation sector with Grupo Ferroviario Mexicano.
Philanthropy
Germán Larrea is involved in philanthropic initiatives, supporting education and funding scholarships for students, investing in local clinics, and supporting cultural and artistic events. In 2014, Grupo México agreed with a government request to deposit $150 million in a trust to compensate local residents harmed by a spill at its copper mine in Sonora, Mexico.