Billionaire Profile
Sandra Ortega Mera
Global Rank
#249

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Sandra Ortega Mera

CEO, Inditex
ES
Real-Time Net Worth
$11.6B
As of December 2025
Age
57
Source
Zara
Industry
fashion-retail
Citizenship
ES

Biography

Sandra Ortega Mera is a prominent Spanish businesswoman and philanthropist, best known as the heiress to the Inditex fortune, the parent company of Zara. Born on July 19, 1968, she is the daughter of Amancio Ortega, the founder of Inditex, and Rosalía Mera. Her wealth stems primarily from the 7% stake in Inditex she inherited from her mother. While her net worth is estimated at $11.6 billion, Sandra Ortega Mera has chosen a life focused on philanthropy, actively involved in the Fundación Paideia Galiza, a foundation that supports individuals with disabilities. Her career is marked by her significant wealth and commitment to social causes. Sandra Ortega Mera is also involved with PharmaMar and real estate investments.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Sandra Ortega Mera was born on July 19, 1968, in La Coruña, Spain. She is the daughter of Amancio Ortega, the co-founder of the global fashion empire Inditex, and Rosalía Mera. She earned a degree in psychology from the University of Santiago de Compostela.

Rise to Success

Sandra inherited a 7% stake in Inditex from her mother, Rosalía Mera, after her death in 2013, making her the wealthiest woman in Spain. This inheritance significantly increased her net worth and solidified her position as a major shareholder in the fashion conglomerate.

Key Business Strategies

Sandra Ortega Mera is not actively involved in the day-to-day operations of Inditex. However, her substantial shareholding provides significant influence within the company. She has focused on diversifying her investments, including a stake in the pharmaceutical company PharmaMar, and real estate.

Philanthropy

Sandra Ortega Mera is actively involved in philanthropic work through the Fundación Paideia Galiza, a foundation established by her mother to support individuals with mental and physical disabilities. She is committed to supporting social causes and making a positive impact on her community.

Career Milestones

2013

Inherited Inditex Stake

Inherited a 7% stake in Inditex from her mother, Rosalia Mera, becoming Spain's richest woman.

1994-2012

Worked at Fundacion Paideia Galiza

Worked on different projects promoting equal opportunities and social development.

2013

President of Fundación Paideia Galiza

Became the President of Fundacion Paideia Galiza.

2024

Rosp Corunna Assets

Rosp Corunna, the family office, posted a 71% profit surge. Assets rose by 24.5% to reach €10.1 billion.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Social Causes

Fundación Paideia Galiza

Unknown

Supports individuals with mental and physical disabilities.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"Sandra Ortega Mera is known for her quiet and private life, preferring to stay out of the public spotlight."

Leadership Principles

Philanthropic Focus

Committed to supporting social causes and making a positive impact on her community.

Privacy and Humility

Maintains a low public profile and avoids the limelight despite her immense wealth.