The sudden resignation of Eduard Sallent from his post as head of the Mossos d’Esquadra has become a significant event for Catalonia. His decision to move to the private sector—specifically to a consulting firm led by several former high-ranking officials—could impact the balance of power in the region’s security and risk management sectors. For many residents and experts, this step signifies not only a change in leadership but could also bring new approaches to crisis management and strategic issues.
Transition to SIMA Consulting
As reported by El Pais, Eduard Sallent unexpectedly requested a leave of absence and just days later announced his new job. He now joins SIMA Consulting, a company founded by Raül Murcia, who once served as the right-hand man to Oriol Junqueras and headed the office in Catalonia’s Department of Home Affairs. Sallent will work on projects related to corporate strategy and complex risk management at SIMA Consulting. According to the company, his experience is expected to strengthen its market position and expand the range of services offered.
Sallent’s appointment to leadership roles in the Mossos d’Esquadra was previously backed by ERC, which caused disputes within the police force. His candidacy for the highest rank—major—also became the subject of legal proceedings initiated by unions and other members of the leadership. A final decision on this matter has yet to be made.
Internal conflicts and changes
In recent years, Mossos d’Esquadra have undergone repeated personnel changes. After the dismissal of Josep Lluís Trapero, who was temporarily reinstated following his acquittal in the referendum case, the police force was led by Josep Maria Estela, with Sallent becoming his deputy. However, their cooperation was short-lived: Estela was removed from his position, and Sallent became head of the police in October 2022. During this period, he established close working relations with Raül Murcia, which, according to russpain.com analysts, became one of the reasons for his subsequent move to the private sector.
Among the notable events under Sallent’s leadership was the unsuccessful attempt to detain Carles Puigdemont during the government formation process led by Salvador Illa. Following this incident and the change of power in Catalonia, PSC decided to remove him from his post, and Josep Lluís Trapero was reappointed as police chief. Sallent was transferred to a regional unit, where he continued working until recently.
Public activity and new challenges
In recent months, Sallent has been actively engaged on social media, analyzing issues of geostrategy and security. After announcing his resignation, he also criticized decisions made by the current Mossos d’Esquadra leadership. His move to SIMA Consulting is seen as an attempt to apply his accumulated experience in new areas related to crisis management and strategic planning.
According to El Pais, SIMA Consulting specializes in strategic consulting, crisis management, and communications. The company presents itself as an expert in analyzing complex situations and making decisions under uncertainty. Bringing on a specialist like Sallent could strengthen the firm’s influence in the market and attract new clients from major corporations and government entities.
Context and similar cases
The transition of high-ranking police and government officials to the private sector is becoming increasingly common in Spain. In recent years, leaders of other law enforcement agencies have made similar moves, sparking discussions about transparency and potential conflicts of interest. For example, a recent article examined the reasons for Sallent’s departure from Mossos d’Esquadra and the effect of political changes on personnel policy. Such transitions often raise debate about the influence of former officials on private companies and their role in shaping new security strategies.
In recent years, Spain has seen a trend of former leaders from government agencies moving into private companies involved in consulting and risk management. Such cases have been recorded not only in Catalonia but also in other regions of the country. This draws the attention of experts and the public, as these transitions can impact the transparency of processes and shape new approaches to management in the fields of security and crisis situations. Interest in these developments remains high, especially amid political changes and reforms within the country’s law enforcement agencies.
