José Manuel Sanabria Díaz: A New Era for Fuerteventura’s Governance
On Monday, September 12, the Cabildo de Fuerteventura’s Governing Council is set to appoint José Manuel Sanabria Díaz to a pivotal role that promises to steer the island towards an era of enhanced governance and efficiency. His selection follows a rigorous open selection process that prioritized not only academic credentials but also the practical experience necessary to manage the complexities of this position.
Academic Credentials
José Manuel Sanabria Díaz is an esteemed academic, holding a Doctorate in Law and an additional Doctorate in the PhD Program on Tourism, Economy, and Management from the University Institute of Tourism and Economic Development (TIDES) at the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC). This unique blend of legal knowledge and expertise in tourism equips him with a multifaceted understanding of the challenges facing Fuerteventura.
Professional Journey
Currently serving as a professor at ULPGC, Sanabria’s professional journey spans various critical roles. Since July 2001, he has been the Manager of the Community of Municipalities of Medianías in Gran Canaria, demonstrating his capability to lead and coordinate at local government levels. His commitment to rural development is further evident in his role as a member of the Insular Association of Rural Development, where he has served as Secretary since 2014.
Sanabria has also contributed significantly to the advancement of electronic administration in the Canaries. He directed the EMOCAN electronic administration project, an initiative aimed at modernizing local entities in the region from 2009 to 2011. This role underscores his proficiency in harnessing technology for better governance.
Diverse Experience
In addition to his current roles, Sanabria has an extensive background in tourism and finance. He worked as a Technician for the Gran Canaria Island Tourism Board from 1990 to 1992 and was an Inspection Unit Tax Agent for the Las Palmas Treasury from 1986 to 1990. These experiences have honed his skills in economic analysis and strategic planning, essential for effectively overseeing tourism development.
As a practicing lawyer, he complements his theoretical knowledge with practical legal skills, particularly regarding public administration and governance. His diverse experiences provide a holistic understanding of both the challenges and opportunities in managing public resources and communities.
Teaching Contributions
Sanabria is also a dedicated educator, instructing a variety of courses at ULPGC, including subjects in law, sports science, and sustainable tourism. He has taught courses on Public Administration, the Electronic Access Law for Citizens, and Hotel Management, highlighting his versatility and commitment to academic engagement.
His significant contributions include guiding students through the complexities of legal frameworks and management practices essential for effective governance. By sharing his expertise, he fosters future generations of leaders equipped to tackle pressing societal issues.
Research Endeavors
Sanabria’s scholarly work is impressive, marked by a doctoral thesis on the public policy of renewing coastal tourist destinations in the Canaries, which received a “Cum Laude” accolade in 2020. His research not only contributes to academic discourse but also provides valuable insights into the tourism sector’s dynamics in the Canaries.
His inquiries extend to urban law, focusing on local governance, exemplified by his 2013 thesis on the Register of Public Land Exploitation in Canary Island Local Entities. Sanabria has also participated in significant international conferences, presenting projects like ECOISLAS at the World Conference on Sustainable Tourism in Lanzarote in 1996.
Community Engagement and Consultancy
Notably, his active role in community development is reflected through numerous initiatives, such as serving as a Consultant for the Tourism Competitiveness Study in San Bartolomé de Tirajana in 1993. He coordinated the ECOISLAS sustainable tourism project, further solidifying his commitment to environmental stewardship and responsible tourism.
His involvement in various symposiums, such as the National Conference on Extrajudicial Dispute Resolution in 2017, speaks volumes about his depth of knowledge and dedication to fostering constructive dialogue on pressing issues.
Through exemplary public service, academic contributions, and community engagement, José Manuel Sanabria Díaz stands poised to make substantial contributions to Fuerteventura. His appointment signifies a strategic move towards reinforcing the island’s governance structure, ensuring sustainable growth and development for its communities.
