**Juan José Sierra Named New President of COPARMEX**
Juan José Sierra Álvarez has been appointed as the national president of the Confederation of Employers of the Mexican Republic (COPARMEX) for the term 2025-2026, taking over from Medina-Mora Icaza, who led the organization for four years beginning on December 10, 2020.
The national assembly of COPARMEX elected Sierra Álvarez to this prominent position, which he will assume on January 1, 2025. During his acceptance speech, Sierra Álvarez emphasized his commitment to strengthening micro, small, and medium enterprises (MIPYMES), describing them as the backbone of the country’s economy. His initiatives include addressing unique challenges faced by these businesses and advocating for solutions tailored to their needs. A key focus of his term will be to work towards reducing poverty and inequality through inclusive development.
Established on September 26, 1929, COPARMEX now encompasses 14 federations, 71 business centers, 17 delegations, and 17 representations in 105 cities across Mexico. It represents over 36,000 affiliated companies, which provide employment to 4.8 million people and contribute to 30% of the national GDP.
Sierra Álvarez hails from Veracruz and holds a degree in Public Accounting with a focus on Financial Auditing. He has previously served as the Vice-President of Business Centers and Federations within COPARMEX and is a founding member of “Ser Coparmex.” His business acumen extends to real estate and franchises, notably in Italian Coffee, and he has led enterprises such as Grupo Textil Veracruz and Hogares Calasanz. Additionally, he has been involved in civic organizations like the Social Union of Mexican Entrepreneurs (USEM).
**About José Medina-Mora Icaza**
José Medina-Mora Icaza, outgoing COPARMEX president, has an impressive academic background with a degree in Civil Engineering from the Universidad Iberoamericana and advanced degrees from Stanford University. As the founder and chairman of the company Compusoluciones y Asociados, Medina-Mora has also contributed academically as a guest professor at IPADE. He serves on several boards and was a member of the Advisory Boards for Nacional Financiera (NAFINSA) and Banamex.
**Related News: Current Economic Challenges in Mexico**
As Juan José Sierra takes the helm of COPARMEX, the Mexican economy faces various challenges. In November alone, the country experienced significant job losses, with 3,987 positions reported disappeared. This situation underscores the pressing need for robust economic strategies to support businesses and workers alike.
In other news, the Mexican Senate recently approved a new bill known as the “Ley silla,” which is now pending executive approval. This legislation aims to improve workplace conditions by mandating seating provisions for employees. Reflecting on the broader economic landscape, involvement and policy direction from organizations like COPARMEX could prove crucial in navigating these challenges and fostering sustainable growth.