Why Spanish Boards Are Prioritizing Independent Advisors in 2025

The role of Board Advisory in Spain is evolving. For many companies, it’s no longer just about regulatory compliance—it’s about building stronger, more effective boards. As corporate governance standards tighten and investors expect more transparency, Spanish firms are rethinking how their boards operate, with independent advisors taking on a more central role. 

Regulations for Spanish Boards 

Spain’s Ley de Sociedades de Capital and the CNMV’s Good Governance Code have made one thing clear: board independence matters. Listed companies are now expected to ensure at least 40% of their directors are independent, aligning with EU standards. 

This shift is driving demand for board advisory services in Spain, particularly from firms looking to: 

  • Review their current structure. 
  • Identify independent directors. 
  • Align governance practices with international expectations. 

For many companies, especially those preparing for growth or seeking investors, strong governance is becoming a non-negotiable. 

From Compliance to Strategy in Spain 

For years, Spanish boards focused mainly on legal compliance. But that’s changing. Today, more companies are turning to external advisors not just for oversight, but for strategic input—whether on succession planning, international expansion, or navigating digital transformation. 

This is why Board Advisory in Spain now goes beyond checking boxes. It’s about adding business value, using governance as a tool to drive growth and manage risk. 

ESG and Diversity in Spanish Boards 

ESG has found its place on the agenda but turning that into action is another matter. Many boards lack experience in sustainability reporting or navigating stakeholder expectations around environmental and social governance. 

Board Advisory can help to: 

  • Understand their ESG responsibilities. 
  • Bring in independent directors with sustainability experience. 
  • Integrate ESG oversight into day-to-day governance—not just annual reports. 

At the same time, gender diversity is now more than a goal—it’s a regulatory requirement. By 2026, Spanish listed companies must have 40% women on their boards. This is accelerating change, but many firms still need guidance on how to make that shift effectively. 

Moving Beyond Traditional Networks in Spain

In Spain’s many family-owned businesses, board seats often went to trusted contacts or long-standing advisors. But as these companies grow and professionalize, there’s a growing realization: external perspectives matter. 

This is where Board Advisory services are stepping in, helping businesses: 

  • Introduce independent, non-executive directors. 
  • Balance continuity with fresh perspectives. 
  • Build boards capable of supporting long-term, sustainable growth. 

Zavala civitas board advisory services for spain

Why Board Advisory Matters in Spain 

Board advisory services are no longer just a formality—they’re a critical part of a company’s strategy. For Spanish firms, strengthening composition isn’t just about meeting regulatory targets. It’s about building leadership teams that can navigate change, drive growth, and withstand challenges. 

For that, working with experienced Board Advisory professionals in Spain is becoming a strategic decision—not a regulatory obligation. 

Learn more about our services clicking here: CEO & Board advisory Worldwide – Zavala Civitas

Board Advisory in Portugal: Key Differences Compared to Spain

While geographically close to Spain, Portugal’s corporate governance, cultural particularities, and business structures are distinct. In this article we explore what works in Portugal to build effective governance. The legal side: Shaping Board Advisory in Portugal Portugal’s corporate governance landscape is shaped by the Código de Governo das Sociedades, which

Read More

Board Advisory in Mexico: Enabling boards for strategic engagement

In a world where business challenges are becoming increasingly complex and interrelated, Board Advisory in Mexico is no longer an indulgence, it is a strategic imperative. Companies of all sizes are expected to have proactive governing bodies that lead organizations, not just supervise. Establishing the right governance structure, the right

Read More

Related posts

Executive Search in Spain: The Generational Shift Reshaping Leadership 

A leadership turning point in Spain Spain’s executive landscape is changing quietly but profoundly. Many of the country’s senior business leaders — those who rebuilt corporations in the 1990s and steered them through the financial crisis — are now approaching retirement. As this experienced generation steps back, companies are facing

Read More

Executive Search in Portugal: Balancing Local Stability with Global Ambition 

Portugal’s economy has remained one of Europe’s most resilient in recent years, supported by foreign investment, digitalization, and an expanding technology ecosystem in Lisbon and Porto. Unemployment has dropped to historic lows, yet the supply of internationally experienced executives remains limited. As multinational operations grow and local companies expand abroad,

Read More

Executive Development and Assessment in the U.S: From Evaluation to Strategic Growth

The new approach to executive growth in the U.S.  Across the U.S., organizations are moving away from traditional performance reviews and investing in data-driven development. Rather than evaluating results retrospectively, American companies now focus on predicting potential — using analytics and behavioral insights to identify executives capable of steering transformation. 

Read More

Jenghiz von Streng joins Zavala Civitas as Principal

We are delighted to announce the appointment of Jenghiz von Streng as Principal at Zavala Civitas, bringing over a decade of international public and private sector experience across Europe and Asia.  Jenghiz has developed his career at the intersection of government, infrastructure, and finance. He has held senior roles in

Read More