He is the president and CEO of Ayala Corporation, his family’s 187-year-old conglomerate with a diversified interests from real estate to banking, telecommunications and a lot more. As a senior member of the seventh generation, Fernando Zobel de Ayala has been working in tandem with his brother Jaime Augusto, in leading their family business into the 21st century. Fernando has held chairmanship and director roles in various subsidiaries involved in telecommunications, finance and investments, healthcare, logistics and energy. As a member of the Philippine Legion of Honour, he received the rank of Grand Commander in 2010.

Since his new post, which took effect at the end of 2020, Fernando has focused on new ventures entered during the pandemic. He spearheads the effort for net zero greenhouse gas by 2050, investing in a renewable energy plant in Laguna through AC Energy (ACEN), where he sits as chairman of the board.

Since 2017, he has earned recognition for his green approach when he was conferred the Dedalo Minosse award for his role in designing environmentally conscious properties. Such developments as El Nido in Palawan, Nuvali in Sta Rosa and the BGC Arts Centre were examples of this mindful perspective to creating sustainable spaces.