Isabelle Le Galo Flores to be new Secretary-General of the European Economic and Social Committee

On 12 December 2023, the Bureau of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) decided to appoint Isabelle Le Galo Flores as its new Secretary-General.

Ms Le Galo Flores holds a Master's degree in mathematical engineering as well as in communication, media studies and international relations. In the course of her career, she has held various management positions, most recently the post of Deputy General Director for Spain at the Daniel and Nina Carasso Foundation, where she was involved in particular in sustainable food and citizens' art.

The Secretary-General of the EESC has an executive function, providing assistance and advice to the statutory bodies of the EESC and managing a workforce of approximately 700 staff.

Ms Le Galo Flores will take office early next year for a period of five years, following Gianluca Brunetti, who will leave the post on 31 December 2023.

In the meantime, to ensure the continuity of the service, on 12 December 2023 the EESC Bureau also appointed John Power, the current Director for Statutory Bodies and Members' Working Conditions, as acting Secretary-General.

Background information

Isabelle Le Galo Flores – Short bio

Ms Le Galo Flores is an expert in communication, corporate social responsibility and sustainability, with a strong focus on empowerment strategies both within and outside the organisations she has led. 

Her background in mathematical engineering and political sciences, gained at Science Po Paris, led her into fields such as medicine, sustainable food systems, diversity, intergenerational justice, and youth development, allowing to integrate models of democratic regeneration in her work.

From 2014 to 2023, Ms Le Galo spearheaded Spain's Carasso Foundation, established by Danone heirs, focusing on sustainable food systems, civic arts, and advancing philanthropy. Under her guidance, the foundation pioneered grants promoting cultural democracy, sustainable arts and sciences, local food policies, and cooperative transitions. 

Ms Le Galo is one of the Top 100 Women Leaders in Spain, an Aspen Institute Fellow, an Acumen Fellow, and a BMW Foundation Responsible Leaders Fellow. She is French and Spanish by nationality.