The former CEO of CEMEX is recognized in the 30 Stories: EXATEC EGADE series over the years for his business leadership and commitment to effective climate action and social impact.
By INSTITUTIONAL COMMUNICATION | EGADE BUSINESS SCHOOL
Fernando González Olivieri (MA'79) has established himself over the past decade as a leader focused on sustainability, technological transformation, and social responsibility.
He made a positive impact during 35 years at CEMEX, the last 10 as CEO, at this global construction materials and services company with operations in Mexico, the United States, Europe, the United Kingdom, North Africa and the Middle East, Asia, Central and South America, and the Caribbean.
A graduate of the Master in Business Administration from EGADE Business School at Tecnológico de Monterrey, he led more than 46,000 employees worldwide to create lasting value for the company’s stakeholders, before retiring in early April this year
“As I reflect on this journey, I feel deeply grateful for the people I’ve met and the experiences we’ve shared. It has been the privilege of a lifetime to work alongside such talented and dedicated colleagues, and I’m extremely proud of everything we have achieved together,” he said.
He has also served on the boards of CEMEX, Grupo Cementos de Chihuahua, telecommunications company AXTEL, and Universidad Tecmilenio.
His experience has enabled him to make a significant impact on the company’s technological progress, empower employees through lifelong education, and focus on climate action through circular economy models.
A LEADER FOCUSED ON TECHNOLOGY AND SUSTAINABILITY
Throughout his professional career at CEMEX, González has been recognized for his commitment to addressing global warming and climate change.
His sustainability strategy enabled CEMEX to set effective goals for reducing its carbon footprint and achieving Net-Zero by 2050, validated by Science Based Targets (SBTi).
González led the company’s digital transformation through the development of CEMEX Go, a platform that allows customers to choose construction products and services, track deliveries in real time, and securely manage billing and payments.
He also promoted innovation within the company through both internal research and development initiatives and CEMEX Ventures, a unit dedicated to investing in innovative startups shaping the future of the construction materials sector, including technologies like 3D printing with ready-mix concrete.
LEADERSHIP WITH SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
González considers it essential to generate a positive social impact. For that reason, he launched projects such as Patrimonio Hoy, a microfinance program designed to support low-income families in building or improving their homes.
Initiatives like this earned him the 2023 Influential Leader recognition from AACSB, standing out among more than 950 graduates from AACSB-accredited institutions worldwide. This organization brings together leading business schools, industry, government, and NGOs to foster positive societal transformation.
“I feel deeply honored by this recognition from the prestigious AACSB association. It is also a recognition for Tecnológico de Monterrey and EGADE, where I had the opportunity to grow, and for all CEMEX collaborators whose talent and tireless effort help build a better future every day,” González stated.
Over the years, CEMEX has positively impacted more than 25 million people and aims to reach 30 million by 2030.
With his solid career and innovative initiatives, this EXATEC EGADE inspires leaders around the world to create business cultures where social, environmental, and technological interests converge, positioning him as one of the most relevant leaders in today’s landscape.