Arancha González Laya is the Dean of the Paris School of International Affairs at Sciences Po. With extensive experience in global economics and political affairs, she has held notable positions such as Spain’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and United Nations Assistant Secretary-General.


Arancha González Laya’s career is marked by her significant contributions to international affairs. As the Dean of the Paris School of International Affairs at Sciences Po, she brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to one of the world’s leading institutions for international studies. Her profound understanding of global economics and political affairs makes her an ideal keynote speaker for corporate events.
From 2020 to July 2021, González served as the Minister of Foreign Affairs, European Union, and Cooperation of Spain. In this role, she was pivotal in shaping Spain’s foreign policy and representing the country in global diplomatic arenas.
Between 2013 and 2019, Arancha González Laya was the United Nations Assistant Secretary-General and Executive Director of the International Trade Centre (ITC). The ITC is a joint trade development agency of the United Nations and the World Trade Organisation. Under her leadership, the ITC focused on enhancing the international competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to foster inclusive and sustainable development.
From 2005 to 2013, González was the Chief of Staff to World Trade Organisation (WTO) Director-General Pascal Lamy. During this period, she also represented the WTO Director-General at the G-20, playing a crucial role in global trade negotiations and policy development. Her deep knowledge of global trade dynamics makes her presentations on global economics both insightful and compelling.
Arancha González Laya began her illustrious career as an associate at a German law firm, where she advised companies on trade, competition, and state-aid matters.
A native of Spain, Arancha holds a degree in law from the University of Navarra and a postgraduate degree in European Law from the University of Carlos III in Madrid.
In addition to her primary positions, Arancha González Laya…
Arancha González Laya’s career is marked by her significant contributions to international affairs. As the Dean of the Paris School of International Affairs at Sciences Po, she brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to one of the world’s leading institutions for international studies. Her profound understanding of global economics and political affairs makes her an ideal keynote speaker for corporate events.
From 2020 to July 2021, González served as the Minister of Foreign Affairs, European Union, and Cooperation of Spain. In this role, she was pivotal in shaping Spain’s foreign policy and representing the country in global diplomatic arenas.
Between 2013 and 2019, Arancha González Laya was the United Nations Assistant Secretary-General and Executive Director of the International Trade Centre (ITC). The ITC is a joint trade development agency of the United Nations and the World Trade Organisation. Under her leadership, the ITC focused on enhancing the international competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to foster inclusive and sustainable development.
From 2005 to 2013, González was the Chief of Staff to World Trade Organisation (WTO) Director-General Pascal Lamy. During this period, she also represented the WTO Director-General at the G-20, playing a crucial role in global trade negotiations and policy development. Her deep knowledge of global trade dynamics makes her presentations on global economics both insightful and compelling.
Arancha González Laya began her illustrious career as an associate at a German law firm, where she advised companies on trade, competition, and state-aid matters.
A native of Spain, Arancha holds a degree in law from the University of Navarra and a postgraduate degree in European Law from the University of Carlos III in Madrid.
In addition to her primary positions, Arancha González Laya serves on the Mission Committee of Danone and is a member of the International Advisory Council of the European House-Ambrosetti. These roles reflect her ongoing commitment to influencing global policies and corporate strategies.
Arancha González Laya is well-versed in addressing audiences on a variety of topics, including:
Arancha González Laya’s extensive experience in international affairs, trade, and diplomacy makes her a distinguished leader and influential figure in global policy-making. Her current role as Dean of the Paris School of International Affairs at Sciences Po allows her to shape the next generation of leaders in international studies. To book Arancha González Laya for your next corporate event and gain invaluable insights from her experience, visit our contact page.

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