In the world of major Spanish business, where every move is scrutinized by the press, there are a few figures who achieve the nearly impossible—keeping their private lives completely out of the public eye. Esther Alcocer Koplowitz, the eldest daughter of financial magnate Alberto Alcocer and the legendary Esther Koplowitz, is perhaps the most striking example. At 55, she not only chairs the board of the multinational corporation FCC, but also holds the title Marquesa de Peñalver, remaining one of the country’s most private and discreet public figures.
Her career path was decided from birth. Belonging to two of Spain’s most influential dynasties meant she was destined for a prominent role. With a law degree and an MBA from the prestigious IESE Business School, Esther steadily climbed to the top of the family business. Today, she leads FCC, a giant in infrastructure construction and public services, as well as sitting on the board of Cementos Portland Valderrivas. It’s a huge responsibility—one she carries with dignity and without fanfare.
Despite her desire for privacy, Esther occasionally makes public appearances, and each one creates a stir. Her appearances at events attended by the royal family are especially memorable. Whether it’s the Princess of Asturias Awards or a formal dinner, she always showcases impeccable taste. Once, at a reception in honor of the Sultan of Oman, she appeared in a form-fitting brick-colored satin dress that, according to fashion critics, completely outshone Queen Letizia’s outfit. This episode only reinforced her reputation as a style icon who does not seek the spotlight.
Outside the meeting rooms and royal palaces, Esther leads a life far removed from the typical image of billionaires. She has no social media accounts, preferring to spend her free time at her country house or skiing. Since 1993, she has been married to architect and hotelier Pablo Santos Tejedor. The couple has three children—Carmen, Esther, and Pablo—who, following their parents’ example, also avoid publicity. For her, family is a safe harbor, well protected from the storms of the media world.
Esther also shares a close bond with her sisters, Alicia and Carmen. Both are law graduates and are involved in the family business in one way or another. Alicia holds the title Marquesa de Campo Florido, while Carmen, the Condesa de Peñalver, found herself in the spotlight a few years ago due to her divorce from singer Juan Losada—an unusual event in the otherwise private life of the family clan.
In 2018, Esther inherited the title of Marchioness de la Casa Peñalver from her mother, a title established back in 1790, underscoring her ties to Spanish aristocracy. A few years ago, while receiving a business leadership award, she dedicated it to her mother. In her speech, she emphasized that qualities like kindness, courage, generosity, and resilience are not just family values, but fundamental principles for any leader aiming to succeed in a constantly changing world.
