EBF appoints María Abascal as new Chair of its Executive Committee

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EBF appoints María Abascal as new Chair of its Executive Committee

Frankfurt, 26 November 2024: The European Banking Federation (EBF) is pleased to announce María Abascal, Director General of the Spanish Banking Association (AEB), as a Chairwoman of its Executive Committee for a two-year term, starting from January 1st 2025. The EBF Executive Committee is composed of the senior leadership of national banking associations from 32 countries in Europe. A governing entity of the EBF, it reports to the board.

“Europe is facing a critical time amid increased geopolitical uncertainty. Action is of the essence. We need to focus on growth and competitiveness to continue playing a relevant role on the global stage. European banks are key in promoting social and economic progress and are essential for funding our future. To enable this, Europe must take a forward-looking approach, fostering an environment that boosts growth as an objective while safeguarding financial stability”, said Ms Abascal.

Maria Abascal, Director General of the Spanish Banking Association and Chair of EBF Executive Committee as of January 2025

María Abascal has an extensive background in international banking both in the public and private spheres and joined the Spanish Banking Association in 2021. She has developed a large part of her professional career at BBVA where she was Global Director of  Public Affairs and chief economist of Regulation and Public Policies. She has previously worked for 5 years in the Spanish Treasury as Deputy Director General of Financial and Strategic Analysis. Prior to that, she worked at the Spanish Institute of Foreign Trade (ICEX). In 2005, Abascal joined the Spanish Civil Service as a member of the senior Corps of State Economists and Trade Experts. She has a degree in Economics from Madrid’s Complutense University.

Abascal will succeed Eelco Dubbeling, Managing Director of the Dutch Banking Association, following the conclusion of his two-year term. The EBF is grateful to Eelco for his leadership and commitment since his appointment in November 2022.

Mr Dubbeling said:

“Humbled and honoured to have served as Chair to the EBF Executive Committee during this period of political transition, in which banks are now widely recognised as key partners in digitalization, managing climate change and helping to regain Europe’s competitive edge. Leaving the EBF ExCo in very safe hands with Maria Abascal, a true European and good colleague.”

For more information please contact:

Gabriel Daia, Head of Communications and Public Affairs, g.daia@ebf.eu

About the EBF

The European Banking Federation is the voice of the European banking sector, bringing together national banking associations from across Europe. The federation is committed to a thriving European economy that is underpinned by a stable, secure, and inclusive financial ecosystem, and to a flourishing society where financing is available to fund the dreams of citizens, businesses and innovators everywhere.