Following the established electoral call and calendar, Ricard Penas has been re-elected as president of COACB for what will be his second term. His candidacy received significant support from members, who have once again placed their trust in the work he began in 2020.

Ricard Penas, with a strong family background in the leather goods industry, began his commercial career in the 1980s and became a member of the COACB in the 1990s. In 2008, he joined the COACB board as a member, and from 2015 to 2020, he served as vice president. Since 2020, he has held the position of president and has now been reappointed to represent the profession and protect the interests of the community until 2028.

Ricard Penas will lead the same governing team, composed of Vice President Carme Ferran and board members César Santamaría, Miquel Guàrdia, Luca Chiesa, Àlex Galícia, Ingrid Lens, Xavier Navarro, and Esther Rey. The president has stated his commitment to continue working for the interests of the community, improving current operational strategies, and strengthening the sector through collaboration with organizations and institutions.
"This new term not only represents the continuity of what we have built but also an opportunity to set new goals," he said.

During the new four-year term, the COACB Board will continue advancing along various established strategic lines. Primarily, efforts are focused on the internationalization of the profession, enabling commercial agents to access new markets and opportunities.

Likewise, the board will continue to prioritize innovation, training, and sustainability, integrating practices that help professionals adapt to an increasingly dynamic environment that is mindful of environmental impact. Efforts will also persist in driving the digitalization of both the profession and the organization, offering digital tools and services to support professional activities and streamline online processes.

Finally, it is essential to continue strengthening the sector and COACB’s role as a lobby, promoting the exchange of experiences and mutual support among professionals, and enhancing relationships with local, national, and international entities and administrations. Additionally, the organization will focus on boosting trade shows and professional fairs of interest to the community, creating opportunities to drive sales and expand networking.