Avangrid, Inc. (NYSE: AGR), a leading sustainable energy company and member of the Iberdrola Group, has appointed Ignacio Estella as Senior Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), Talent, and Innovation. This new role, which will report directly to Avangrid’s CEO, underscores the company’s dedication to fostering a diverse talent pool and cultivating a culture of inclusion and innovation.
“For years, Ignacio has been a strong advocate for Avangrid’s DEI and recruitment efforts, supporting our business resource groups and mentoring early-career graduates,” said Pedro Azagra, Avangrid CEO. “I am confident he is the right person to continue advancing our diverse workforce and build on our progress. By establishing DEI, talent, and innovation as a dedicated business area, we align more closely with Iberdrola’s priorities and enhance our position as an employer of choice.”
In his new role, Estella will oversee DEI, talent, and innovation initiatives. A member of the LGBTQI+ community, he will maintain direct reporting to the Avangrid CEO and continue his role as a senior leader within the company.
“Taking on this role with increased visibility is both a humbling and exciting challenge,” said Estella. “This position allows me to further foster an inclusive culture where diverse perspectives are integral to driving innovation. As a senior leader, I’m committed to leveraging my experience and passion to ensure Avangrid remains at the forefront of DEI and innovation, benefiting everyone involved.”
Estella joined Avangrid in 2013 as Vice President of Corporate Development and most recently served as Senior Vice President of Corporate Development, focusing on non-organic growth opportunities. Before joining Avangrid, he spent over six years in business development at Iberdrola.
In his new role, Estella will work alongside Liberna Charles, Vice President of DEI and Talent Management, and Enrique Bosch, Director of Innovation. Ryan Shields will succeed Estella as Senior Vice President of Corporate Development.
“Diverse leadership within a DEI team is essential,” said Charles. “It brings varied perspectives that lead to innovative solutions and strategies. I look forward to collaborating with Ignacio Estella and CEO Pedro Azagra to continue building an inclusive environment at Avangrid where all employees feel valued and have equitable opportunities to grow and thrive.”
