Isabel Gavilanes has been appointed as the new president of the Human Resources and Talent Management Committee of Aecoc, the Association of Large Consumption Companies, effective April 16, 2025. She takes over from Juan Luis Regaliza, who has represented El Corte Inglés and led the committee for several years. The committee expressed its gratitude to Regaliza for his dedication and excellent leadership during his tenure, particularly in promoting employability projects that connect the labor needs of companies with professional profiles.
Gavilanes, who has spent her entire career at Alcampo, brings a wealth of experience to her new role. She began her journey in retail, working her way up from Section Head and Sector Head, which provided her with a deep understanding of commercial activities. Transitioning to Human Resources, she initially focused on Training before becoming the Regional HR Director for the Canary Islands, Andalusia, and Castilla-La Mancha. Her career trajectory continued as she took on the role of Director of Selection and Development. Currently, as the Talent Management and Development Director, she oversees areas including Attraction, Selection, Training, and Development.
The Human Resources and Talent Management Committee, founded in 2017, is composed of 20 companies and serves as a vital platform for identifying needs and generating initiatives that address the current and future realities of Talent Management in the sector. One of the committee's primary objectives is to bridge the gap between the large consumption sector and educational institutions, including universities and vocational training centers. This initiative aims to ensure that companies and educational institutions work collaboratively to highlight the significant professional opportunities available within the sector.
Under Gavilanes' leadership, the committee is expected to continue its mission of enhancing employability and fostering diversity within the industry. The focus will remain on aligning educational outcomes with the skills required by employers, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the job market.
As the new president, Gavilanes is poised to drive forward the committee's agenda, building on the solid foundation laid by her predecessor. Her extensive experience in both retail and human resources positions her uniquely to understand the challenges and opportunities facing the industry today.
In her acceptance of the presidency, Gavilanes expressed her commitment to the committee's goals, stating, "I am excited to take on this role and work alongside my colleagues to further enhance the connection between education and the labor market. Together, we can create initiatives that not only support our companies but also provide meaningful career paths for future professionals in the large consumption sector."
The transition in leadership comes at a time when the large consumption sector is evolving rapidly, with increasing demands for skilled professionals who can adapt to new technologies and consumer behaviors. The committee's initiatives will play a crucial role in ensuring that the workforce is equipped to meet these challenges.
As the committee looks ahead, it aims to continue fostering partnerships between businesses and educational institutions, ensuring that the necessary skills and knowledge are imparted to students. This collaborative approach is seen as essential for the sustainable growth of the sector and the economy at large.
In summary, Isabel Gavilanes' appointment as president of the Human Resources and Talent Management Committee of Aecoc marks a significant step forward for the organization. Her leadership is expected to bring fresh perspectives and renewed energy to the committee's initiatives, ultimately benefiting both the companies involved and the future workforce.