If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to turn your vision into reality, you can’t look any further than Anna Maria Lopis, a great power entrepreneur who proves that ambition and grit can move the mountains. Born in Carpano, Venezuela in 1950 to a Spanish family, Anamaria grew up with international roots, but has a Spanish identity. Her background gave her an motivation and perspective to create a lasting mark in the business world.
Anamaria’s journey is nothing but exciting. She received her PhD degree from the University of Maryland in Physics and Mathematics. Science of Materials Science at the University of California, Berkeley. Even in the fields dominated by men, she excelled and graduated, Signs of determination and glow that define her career.
Her early career path began in the United States, where she gained experience in large corporations, but it was back to Spain where she really made her name. She took on senior roles at Procter & Gamble, Banesto and Schweppes, honing her management, innovation and strategy expertise. Then came the movement that changed everything: in 1995, she founded openSpain’s first online bank. When digital banking was still in unknown territory, Anamaria dared to make a leap and it paid off. The Open Bank changed the way the Spaniards managed money and solidified her reputation as a visionary leader before her time.
She never stops innovation, she launched in 2008. Ideas4all Innovationa platform designed to harness collective intelligence and creativity within an organization. By working with people to solve problems, she created a space where bold ideas flourish. Beyond her entrepreneurial ventures, Ana Maria crushed the glass ceiling with her corporate leadership. She became chairman DIA Supermarketone of the few women to lead a company listed on Ibex 35 in Spain. A passionate advocate for gender equality, she spoke openly about her quota. “I was chosen to the board of directors to fulfill the board. I say it with pride. I have proven my worth and that’s the end.” She is equally committed to helping others climb: “We need to place ladders so that others can get to where we have reached.”
Her accolades, including the International Women’s Forum Award and the FedEpe Leadership Women Executive Award, highlight what many already know. Ana María is not just a leader, she is a mentor and role model. Her story isn’t just about building a company. It’s about building a path. For women who dream of leading, creating and innovation, Ana Maria Lopis is living proof that starting from scratch is not a barrier to building an empire.
