Colliers appoints Laura Hernando CEO of Iberia to lead next phase of growth
Rhea-AI Summary
Colliers (NYSE:CIGI) has appointed Laura Hernando as CEO of Iberia, effective in the second quarter of 2026. She succeeds Mikel Echavarren, who will remain as Chairman for the Iberian region and on Colliers’ EMEA Senior Leadership Team. Hernando will also continue as Managing Director of Hotels for Colliers Spain.
The move emphasizes internal succession: Hernando joined via the 2018 IREA acquisition and brings over two decades of Iberian market experience. Leadership continuity is highlighted to support client service and regional growth.
Positive
- Internal succession: Hernando promoted from within after joining via IREA in 2018
- Experienced leader: Hernando has over two decades of Iberian market experience
- Continuity retained: Echavarren remains Chairman and on EMEA Senior Leadership Team
- Dual role: Hernando will continue as Managing Director of Hotels for Colliers Spain
Negative
- None.
News Market Reaction – CIGI
On the day this news was published, CIGI gained 2.51%, reflecting a moderate positive market reaction.
Data tracked by StockTitan Argus on the day of publication.
Key Figures
Market Reality Check
Peers on Argus
CIGI declined 2.39% with peers FSV, OPEN, COMP, NMRK and CWK also negative on the day, but no related peer momentum or news was flagged, pointing to stock-specific trading rather than a scanner-identified sector move.
Historical Context
| Date | Event | Sentiment | Move | Catalyst |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Feb 20 | Credit facility amendment | Positive | +2.0% | Extended US$2.25B credit facility maturity and added US$250M accordion. |
| Feb 13 | Earnings release | Positive | -4.1% | Reported strong FY 2025 growth in revenue, EBITDA and Adjusted EPS. |
| Feb 04 | Acquisition | Positive | +4.9% | Acquired Ramos Consulting Services to expand U.S. transit engineering footprint. |
| Feb 03 | Major acquisition | Positive | -5.9% | Agreed to acquire Ayesa Engineering for US$700M to add 3,200 professionals. |
| Jan 29 | Acquisition | Positive | -1.4% | Englobe acquired Tetranex, adding 200 professionals and new capabilities. |
Recent news often draws mixed reactions: credit and smaller acquisitions saw gains, while earnings and the larger Ayesa deal coincided with declines.
Over the past month, Colliers has combined balance sheet actions, acquisitions and solid financial results. A US$2.25B credit facility amendment and extension to February 2031 supported growth initiatives. Q4 and full-year 2025 results showed double-digit revenue and Adjusted EPS growth. Multiple engineering and consulting acquisitions, including Ayesa Engineering and Ramos Consulting Services, expanded its global platform. Today’s Iberia CEO appointment fits into this broader growth and leadership-deepening narrative in key regions.
Market Pulse Summary
This announcement highlights a leadership transition in Colliers’ Iberian operations, with a new CEO for Iberia starting in Q2 2026 while the former CEO remains as regional Chairman. It complements recent strategic moves, including credit facility extensions, strong 2025 results and multiple engineering acquisitions. Investors may track how Iberian performance, integration of recent deals and continuity in regional leadership evolve as the company pursues its next phase of growth.
AI-generated analysis. Not financial advice.
Mikel Echavarren to continue as Chairman
MADRID and LONDON, Feb. 24, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Colliers announces the appointment of Laura Hernando as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for Iberia, with her start scheduled in the second quarter of 2026. She succeeds Mikel Echavarren, who will maintain a key strategic role as Chairman for the Iberian region. Hernando will also continue as Managing Director of Hotels for Colliers Spain.
Hernando brings more than two decades of expertise in the Iberian market. She has played a pivotal role in the country’s most significant hotel transactions, including single assets, portfolios, corporate deals, and financial restructurings. She has been a key member of Colliers since joining through the acquisition of IREA in 2018.
Davoud Amel-Azizpour, CEO of Colliers EMEA, said: “Laura’s appointment as CEO reflects a long-term strategy and shared vision for the future of our Iberian business. With a proven track record of building successful businesses and leading high-performing, client-focused teams, she is well placed to drive the next phase of growth. My thanks to Mikel and the leadership team for the incredibly strong foundation they have built.”
Laura Hernando added: “I am honoured to take on the leadership of the Iberian region in the same year we celebrate 20 successful years in Spain. My focus remains on delivering exceptional outcomes for our clients across Iberia, while nurturing the unique culture that drives our talented teams.”
Echavarren will continue to work closely with Laura and the leadership team to ensure seamless client service and support strategic growth. He will also maintain his role on Colliers’ EMEA Senior Leadership Team.
“I look forward to supporting Laura as we continue to foster new growth opportunities and deliver the highest standards of service across all our business lines. Having worked with Laura for nearly two decades, I am proud to see her take on this role and become the first female corporate real estate leader for Iberia – a reflection of her talent and capability,” said Mikel Echavarren.
About Colliers (as of February 2026)
Colliers (NASDAQ, TSX: CIGI) is a global diversified professional services and investment management company operating through three industry leading businesses: Commercial Real Estate, Engineering, and Investment Management. With greater than a 30-year track record of consistent growth and strong recurring cash flows, we scale complementary, high-value businesses that provide essential services across the full asset lifecycle. Our unique partnership philosophy empowers exceptional leaders, preserves our entrepreneurial culture, and ensures meaningful inside ownership — driving strong alignment and sustained value creation for our shareholders. With
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/bc470a85-2086-4d75-a09f-90294b66a21f
For further information, please contact: Media Contact Sarah Robertson Head of Communications & Content, EMEA Sarah.robertson@colliers.com
FAQ
When will Laura Hernando start as CEO of Iberia for Colliers (CIGI)?
What role will Mikel Echavarren keep after stepping down as Iberia CEO (CIGI)?
What experience does Laura Hernando bring to the CEO Iberia role at Colliers (CIGI)?
How might Laura Hernando’s appointment affect Colliers Iberia’s strategy (CIGI)?
Is Laura Hernando the first female corporate real estate leader for Iberia at Colliers (CIGI)?
