Billionaire Profile
F
Global Rank
#2458

Image: Jose A. Pillado | Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Francisco Jose Riberas Mera

CEO, Steel
SPAIN
Real-Time Net Worth
$1.675B
Estimated based on Steel stock value as of April 20, 2026
-0.46% (24h)
Age
61
Source
Steel, autoparts
Industry
Metals & Mining
Citizenship
SPAIN

Biography

Francisco José Riberas Mera is a Spanish billionaire with a net worth of $2.6 billion as of March 2026. His primary source of wealth stems from his involvement in the steel and autoparts industries. Riberas Mera serves as the Executive Chairman of Gestamp Automoción, a leading global automotive engineering company specializing in metal components. He played a pivotal role in founding Gestamp in 1997, and has been instrumental in its growth, shaping it into a major player in the automotive sector with over 40,000 employees across the globe. Riberas Mera is also on the board of directors for Telefónica and CIE Automotive. His career highlights include leadership roles at Gonvarri Group and his contributions to the Family Business Institute.

Fact Checked
Verified by Editorial Team
Live Data
Updated 4/20/2026

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Francisco José Riberas Mera was born in Madrid, Spain, on June 1, 1964. His father, Francisco Riberas Pampliega, founded a steel trading company in 1958, laying the foundation for the family's future in the industry. Riberas Mera pursued higher education, earning a degree in Law (1987) and a degree in Economics and Business Administration (1988) from the University Pontificia de Comillas (ICADE E-3), Madrid.

Rise to Success

Riberas Mera began his professional career in 1989 at Gonvarri Group, where he held positions in Business Management before becoming Director of Corporate Development and eventually CEO. In 1997, he spearheaded the creation of Gestamp Automoción, transforming it into a global leader in automotive engineering. Under his leadership as Executive Chairman, Gestamp has expanded its presence to over 20 countries, with more than 100 production plants and numerous R&D centers. Gestamp's focus on innovation and technology has made it a key supplier to major vehicle manufacturers worldwide.

Key Business Strategies

Riberas Mera's strategic vision has been central to Gestamp's success. The company has prioritized geographic and technological diversification, as well as a commitment to financial strength and sustainability. Gestamp has focused on achieving a strong order backlog, which supports revenue targets for the coming years, demonstrating its commitment to profitable growth. Gestamp is also focused on providing comprehensive solutions that cover the entire production process.

Philanthropy

Riberas Mera is also the Chairman of the Gestamp Foundation, demonstrating a commitment to creating opportunities and sustainable development through projects focused on education, mobility, and sustainability.

Career Milestones

1989

Began Career at Gonvarri Group

Started in Business Management, later becoming Director of Corporate Development and CEO.

1997

Founded Gestamp Automoción

Promoted the creation of Gestamp, assuming the role of Executive Chairman and shaping the company.

2017

Appointed Executive Chairman of Gestamp

Became Executive Chairman of Gestamp Automoción.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Social Impact

Gestamp Foundation

N/A

The Gestamp Foundation's projects focus on improving the quality of life of people and the environment, focusing on education, mobility and sustainability