Juan Miguel Villar Mir, Founder of Villar Mir Group, Dies at 92
Madrid, Spain – Juan Miguel Villar Mir, the founder of the Villar Mir Group, passed away on Saturday at the age of 92, according to sources from the company.
Early Life and Career
Born on September 30, 1931, in Madrid, Spain, Villar Mir held a PhD in Civil Engineering from the Polytechnic University of Madrid, a degree in Law from the Complutense University, and a diploma in Industrial Organization from the Economic Development Institute in Washington, USA.
Business Career
Villar Mir began his business career in the 1960s, serving as Director General of Employment and Secretary General of the National Fund for Employment Protection. He later became the president of Hidro Nitro Española and Altos Hornos de Vizcaya and Altos Hornos del Mediterráneo.
Government Career
In 1975, Villar Mir held the position of Minister of Finance and Vice President of Economic Affairs in the Government of Arias Navarro. During his tenure, he initiated tax reform, increasing taxes on luxury items and property transfers.
Villar Mir Group
After leaving politics, Villar Mir became the president of the construction company Obrascón and was the promoter and majority shareholder of the company Gestora de Puerto Sotogrande. He also chaired the companies Espacio, Promotora Playas Españolas, and Inmobiliaria Umbral.
OHL and Colonial
In 1999, Villar Mir’s company absorbed Huarte and Lain, creating OHL, one of the most important construction companies in Spain. In 2006, OHL acquired all of its shares. Since January 2014, Villar Mir has been the main shareholder of the Colonial real estate group, serving as vice president and director.
Legacy
Villar Mir left the presidency of OHL in 2016 and handed over the reins to his son Juan Villar Mir de Fuentes. He continued as president of the Villar Mir Group until May 12, 2021, when he became honorary president. His son succeeded him in the position.
Urban Projects
Among the numerous urban projects undertaken by his group, the construction of the Torre Espacio stands out, as well as the renovation of the luxurious Canalejas centre.
Sporting Interests
Villar-Mir was also a fan of Real Madrid, serving as vice-president for economic affairs of the board of directors led by Ramón Mendoza in the mid-nineties.
Honors and Awards
Villar Mir was a member of the Royal Academy of Engineering and president of the College of Civil Engineers, Canals and Ports. He was also president of the Board of Trustees of the Ortega-Marañón Foundation.