Aqualia appoints a new CEO and reflects on leadership milestones
The Board of Directors at Aqualia has announced Santiago Lafuente Pérez-Lucas as the company’s new chief executive officer. He previously held the role of Director for Spain, marking more than three decades of service within the citizen services group. Lafuente will assume the position on April 9, 2024, guiding the company through its next phase of growth and strategic evolution.
Aqualia’s incoming CEO trained as a civil engineer, specializing in Roads, Canals, and Ports at the Polytechnical University of Madrid. He also earned a Master in Integrated Water Plant Management from CEDEX. Further studies include Financial Modeling of Projects at IESE and EOI, enriching his ability to steer large-scale water infrastructure initiatives with a solid financial lens.
With extensive experience in water management, Lafuente has previously led regional operations as Director of the North-Central Division and has overseen Production and Wastewater Treatment at the national level. His track record demonstrates a deep commitment to improving water services and a capacity to manage complex networks across diverse markets.
Lafuente is a frequent speaker at industry conferences and roundtables, sharing insights on water supply challenges and solutions. He currently serves as Vice President of the Spanish Association of Water Supply Companies (AGA), underscoring his involvement in shaping sector standards and best practices.
The Board of Directors also expressed appreciation for the work of Félix Parra, who had held the CEO role since 2013. Parra’s leadership contributed significantly to Aqualia’s growth and its global standing in water management, positioning the company as a leader in the sector during his tenure.
Aqualia is the water management arm jointly owned by FCC, the hundred-percent parent in the citizen services group, holding 51 percent, and the Australian ethical fund IFM Investors, owning 49 percent. The company ranks as the fourth largest water company in Europe by people served and ninth globally, according to the December 2022 Global Water Intelligence ranking. It has been recognized as Best Water Company of the Year 2023. Currently, Aqualia provides services to about 45.2 million users across 18 countries, including Algeria, Saudi Arabia, Colombia, Chile, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Spain, the United States, France, Georgia, Italy, Mexico, Oman, Peru, Portugal, Qatar, the Czech Republic, and Romania.
These leadership transitions reflect Aqualia’s commitment to sustaining high standards of service while expanding its international footprint. The company continues to focus on delivering reliable water and wastewater services, investing in infrastructure, and fostering innovation across its diversified markets. The transition also signals a continuity plan aimed at strengthening governance, expanding strategic partnerships, and driving sustainable growth for communities served around the world.
At a strategic level, Aqualia remains aligned with FCC’s broader service portfolio and with IFM’s investment approach, pursuing efficiency, resilience, and responsible water stewardship. The organization will keep advancing its mission to provide safe, affordable water services to a growing user base, supported by robust governance and a culture of people-first leadership. This evolution is expected to enhance customer value, reinforce regional expertise, and sustain long-term performance in a competitive global market.
Notes: The information above highlights leadership changes, career highlights of the new CEO, and context about Aqualia’s market position and ownership structure. Citations accompany statements where appropriate, drawn from official company communications and industry rankings, to ensure accuracy and transparency in reporting. [Citation: Aqualia corporate communications; Global Water Intelligence ranking, December 2022; AGA membership records].