José Sevilla dimite como presidente de Unicaja tras más de dos años en el cargo

José Sevilla, the former CEO of Unicaja, has announced his decision to step down from his position, which he has held since February 2024. This move comes after a governance crisis that arose from the merger with Liberbank. As the non-executive president, Sevilla has chosen not to stand for re-election in April 2027, remaining in his role until then. He informed the board of his decision and communicated it to the National Market Commission (CNMV). The bank has initiated a succession plan to select a new president.

Prior to his tenure, Manuel Azuaga served as the CEO of Unicaja. Under his leadership, the bank unveiled its ambitious strategic plan for 2025-2027, aiming for a profit of over 1,900 million euros throughout the triennium and a 1,500 million euro interest margin in each fiscal year. In addition, Unicaja has expanded its commercial strategy, strengthening its presence in private and corporate banking, and focusing on core segments such as mortgages.

Sevilla's decision comes as Unicaja reports a first-half profit of 361 million euros and double-digit profitability, with a solvency ratio nearing 16%, the strongest among Spanish banks. The bank's current strategic plan also includes an attractive dividend policy, with a payout ratio of 95%. The board of directors currently consists of 15 members, including seven weekly, seven independent, and one executive (Isidro Rubiales, the CEO).

The entity is preparing for the Annual General Meeting (AGM) in March or April, where up to seven directors will be elected, including Rubiales, who will lead the bank until the AGM.