Aboitiz family member to lead real estate unit

MANILA, Philippines — A member of the Aboitiz family will once again take the helm of its real estate subsidiary starting next year.

Aboitiz Land Inc. announced the appointment of Rafael Fernandez de Mesa as the company’s new CEO effective Jan. 1, 2025.

Fernandez de Mesa, a fifth-generation family member, will be taking over the position currently held by David Rafael, who will retire at the end of the year after a five-year stint as Aboitiz Land president and CEO.

Fernandez de Mesa’s appointment marks the return of Aboitiz Land’s leadership to the Aboitiz family.

He will lead the Aboitiz Group’s land and residential business unit and continue his current responsibilities as head of economic estates in Aboitiz InfraCapital.

Playing a key role in the ongoing success of the Aboitiz InfraCapital Economic Estates, Fernandez de Mesa is bringing with him a wealth of industry expertise.

He has spent 10 of his 15 years with the Aboitiz Group at Aboitiz Land, where he served as first vice president of operations from 2016 to 2020.

He likewise held leadership roles across various areas, including business development, project management, technical services, construction, property management as well as the residential, industrial and commercial business units.

Prior to joining the Aboitiz Group, Fernandez de Mesa worked in banking for BBVA and Banco Santander in the US.

At present, he also holds various directorships within the Aboitiz Group, serving the boards of Aboitiz Land, Aboitiz InfraCapital and Aboitiz Construction.

With Fernandez de Mesa at its helm, Aboitiz Land said the company is poised to continue its growth trajectory as it plays a pivotal role in the Aboitiz Group’s mission to be the Philippines’ first techglomerate.

The Aboitiz Group’s ongoing evolution into the Philippines’ first techglomerate is a pioneering strategy that leverages technology, innovation and a startup culture to revolutionize its operations and amplify its impact.

“Our transformation into a techglomerate reinforces our commitment to being a force for good,” Aboitiz Group president and CEO Sabin Aboitiz said.