Maintaining the highest standards of ethics, integrity, transparency and corporate governance model is a key element of our management.
We ensure compliance not only with applicable laws and regulations in the countries in which we do business, but also with our own codes and internal policies.
To grow in an organic, diversified and sustainable way, applying a management model that maximizes our potential, guarantees the projection of our professionals and allows us to generate a positive impact on society.
We maintain a four-pronged diversification strategy (geography, industry, meta-competencies and customers), which is key to ensuring business continuity and sustainable growth.
We consider our clients, the professionals who make up Management Solutions, and the environment to be our primary stakeholders.
We practice our profession by staying true to sound principles and values, because we care not only about what we do, but also about how we do it.
We have a robust control framework that is articulated through internal rules contained in policies, procedures and manuals.
Our commitment to responsible tax conduct and good tax practices is another pillar of our governance.
We have a security policy and an information security management system in place to prevent cybersecurity risks.
Being able to continue with our operations in adverse situations is very important for the stability of all our stakeholders.
We have internal policies and an AI Quality Assurance Committee to ensure the effective, ethical and safe use of AI in our Firm.
Our true commitment to responsible and sustainable practices requires us to continually search for the most appropriate formulas to maximize efficiency.
We work to stay at the forefront of knowledge and meet the market's growing demand for innovation.
We work with prestigious universities to develop academic, research and knowledge transfer activities.
We collaborate with industry and business associations, and disseminate the expertise generated by the Firm.
We accompany our clients in their transition strategy towards a sustainable production model.
Maintaining good economic performance is necessary to be able to continue generating a positive impact on society. The Firm recognizes the importance of pursuing sustainable growth of customers, professionals and society as a whole, orienting its growth in a way that is compatible with the Sustainable Development Goals.
At Management Solutions we maintain high internal organic growth levels to ensure a career progression model far superior to that of our competitors. And we are committed to R&D&i and training as key differentiating elements in our value proposition to the market.
To adequately respond to our high growth rates, we have a fluid and continually adapting organizational structure that focuses the organization on value creation.
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Maintaining a diversified strategy is key to ensuring business continuity and sustainable growth, which is why we continue to grow consistently across all five continents, intensify our activities in all regulated industries, maintain our leadership in the financial services sector, gain market share in the energy sector and expand our activities in the telecommunications and other industries, broaden our client portfolio and update our solution offering.
We consider our clients, the professionals who make up Management Solutions, and the environment (including academia and prospective Management Solutions employees, the firm's suppliers, and society at large) to be our primary stakeholders. Satisfying these groups remains a central focus of our corporate strategy, therefore establishing an optimal relationship with them is a key objective.
At Management Solutions, we use different ways to communicate with each of our stakeholder groups to identify and understand their needs and to respond to them sucessfully.
The information gained through these communication channels is key to better understanding the environment in which Management Solutions operates, and the channels represent an important asset allowing us to anticipate the needs of our stakeholders, identify areas for improvement as well as new opportunities, evaluate new ideas and initiatives and launch new projects.
Some of our main communication approaches include:
- Promoting the Management Solutions brand to our stakeholders.
- Strengthening our communication channels (Intranet, Website and Social Networks).
- Disseminating valuable publications (white papers, technical notes, regulatory analyses, economic outlook reports, etc.).
- Maintaining a presence in forums and institutions of recognized prestige in each of our sectors of activity.
- Supporting the academic world through chairs, agreements, internships and specialized courses.
- Engaging in sponsorship and patronage work to promote science, culture, the arts and sports.
- Involving ourselves with those most in need through solidarity actions within our scope of action.
At Management Solutions, we do not only care about what we do, but also how we do it.
Commitment and dedication to service, integrity, humility, solidarity and generosity, critical thinking, meritocracy and focus on results, perseverance in the pursuit of our objectives, an entrepreneurial spirit, passion for a job well done, and the constant search for excellence are principles and values that inspire our code of conduct.
We believe our business culture is essential to achieve a profitable and sustainable business model in the long term. This is why, as soon as they join Management Solutions, all our professionals receive training on the Firm's code of conduct with the aim of ensuring they know and understand it. In addition, training in principles and values accompanies Management Solutions professionals throughout their professional careers.
Integrity and honesty
We commit ourselves to acting with integrity and honesty at all times, consistently applying the highest ethical standards.
Integrity and honesty are the values underlying the trust we share with our clients and others within our Firm.
Our performance is based on ethical behavior, achieving the highest levels of quality, excellence in the provision of our services and long-term development of relationships based on trust and mutual respect.
Dedication to excellence
We have an ongoing commitment to our clients, our colleagues and society as a whole to deliver excellence in all aspects of our professional performance.
We give our best effort in client relationship management and the provision of services to clients in order to deliver high quality projects.
We commit to developing and strengthening the abilities of our professionals by providing the best working environment in order to foster potential and retain talent.
Commitment
We take on our clients’ challenges as our own while focusing on excellence and results, supported by a strong culture of commitment. This commitment is evident in our management approach, service provided to our clients, and in our ongoing effort to deliver the best consulting services on the market.
We meet our clients’ highest demands, going beyond their expectations in an environment of trust and close cooperation between the client and Management Solutions’ professionals.
Management Solutions’ management takes on the commitment to create opportunities for all professionals and it is their duty and responsibility to transmit the Firm’s values and corporate culture.
Professionalism
Each employee stands out for their high level of professionalism. We aim to get the best results by cooperating with other teams and staff members, while taking care of our own training and that of our colleagues. We make an effort to convey an unrivaled image of correctness and professionalism in all situations.
We comply with all legal requirements, taking the professional standards and rules established in each case as our guide, while avoiding any situation which could compromise the reputation of the Firm.
Emphasis on the human factor
Beyond what is required for an acceptable working relationship, we realize that both employees and clients are people, and therefore deserve to be treated as such. This involves both respect for human rights in all of our actions and the desire to contribute to the personal growth of those who are part of the Firm.
We favor a working environment that stimulates personal growth, development and success, supported by an atmosphere of continuous collaboration and teamwork. This is made possible by the generosity of each of its members, with the team’s objectives prevailing over individual aims.
Our success is dependent on our professionals. Accordingly, we select and train employees so that they can provide services of the highest quality in all areas of our professional practice.
We evaluate performance through objective and agreed-upon criteria, offering a professional career without limitations in which employees earn their own promotion based on merit.
We commit ourselves to investing time, effort and resources into selecting top professional talent, as well as developing and maintaining their abilities through training plans adapted to each level and position.
Privacy and confidentiality
Management Solutions complies with the data protection regulations in force in all countries in which the Firm operates.
All members of our organization are prohibited from disclosing confidential client information to third parties and are obliged to keep the Firm's reports and internal documentation confidential, treating all information with particular responsibility, control and protection and without using it for personal gain or for that of third parties.
All of the Firm's strategic information, as well as client and employee data accessed in the course of professional activity, is considered confidential.
Management Solutions applies the strictest security standards to all its IT and communications systems to ensure they do not violate confidentiality protocols.
Responsibility to society
Our services and client-oriented focus allow us to deliver projects of considerable added value, which makes it possible for the Firm to positively contribute to society’s economic environment. This responsibility takes the form of job creation for young adults, as we contribute to the provision of comprehensive training and promote their entry into the job market. The Firm also promotes initiatives that facilitate employee participation in different volunteering activities (Social Action).
The Firm's policies are mandatory and global in nature (applicable to all its offices).
Some of the Firm's key risk control and management policies are:
- Code of Conduct (for employees and suppliers)
- Compliance Policy
- Confidentiality Policy
- Physical and Logical Security Policies
- Personal Data Processing Policy
- Human Resources Policy
- Occupational Risk Prevention Policy
- Anti-discrimination and Anti-harassment Policy
- Anti-Bribery and Anti-Corruption Policies
- Doubts and Non-Compliance Management Policy
- Quality Control Policy for Project Management
- Quality Policy
- Conflict of Interest Policy
- Information Storage Policy
- Communication Policy
- Business Continuity Policy
- Responsible AI Policy
- Environmental Sustainability Policy
The Firm has three Risk Management and Control lines of defense:
i) employees themselves as they perform their duties in accordance with the policies they undertake to observe;
ii) our internal control function (which has among its responsibilities to obtain external compliance certifications that show we implement our control framework),
y iii) our audit function (both internal and external).
1ª Line of defense: ethical and responsible conduct of our professionals
Management Solutions is firmly committed to acting ethically and responsibly in the way it operates, which translates into a requirement that its professionals not only act in strict compliance with the law, but also refrain from performing any action or giving any advice that could be considered questionable from an ethical perspective.
As such, all Management Solutions professionals must ensure that their behavior and conduct do not give rise to bribery or corruption.
Also, Management Solutions’ anti-corruption and bribery policy forbids donations to individual political parties, political campaigns and/or individual politicians.
In addition, to fairly address issues and concerns related to ethics and integrity, the Firm makes available to clients, candidates, professionals, suppliers and any other party with whom we maintain a business relationship, a channel for reporting conduct that may be considered irregular, unethical, illegal or inappropriate, in relation to the performance of Management Solutions' activities. Any identified breach of both internal policies and current regulations in the countries in which the Firm operates is reported through the ethical channel3 to the Global QA (who will independently and objectively assess the complaint and ensure there is no retaliation towards anyone for raising a concern in good faith).
2ª Line of defense: internal control and compliance
Management Solutions is firmly committed to compliance not only with the legislation and regulations in force in each country in which it operates, but also with its own internal regulations.
Compliance at Management Solutions binds all personnel. Thus, employees, managers and board members must act in a lawful, ethical and professional manner in the performance of their duties, and there is a channel available for clients, candidates, employees, suppliers and any other party with whom we maintain a business relationship to report any conduct that may be considered contrary to the prescribed conduct.
Likewise, although our Internal Control and Compliance function touches on all regulations regardless of their subject matter, the main focus falls on matters pertaining to Fiscal/Tax, Data Protection, Money Laundering Prevention, Criminal Risk, Occupational Risk Prevention, Social Security, Commercial/Corporate and Administrative.
3ª Line of defense: internal audit function
The audit function aims to ensure compliance with both our Internal Control Framework (policies and procedures) and the different regulations by which Management Solutions is bound. For this, a number of internal audits are carried out to review specific processes of particular relevance each year, and there is oversight of all planned external audits (both mandatory and those voluntarily requested by the Firm) to ensure they are duly carried out.
In addition to the annual audit on the financial statements (consolidated and individual for the parent company and main subsidiaries), the Firm periodically undergoes the following audits:
- Computer Security Audit: security assessment of the security of the Firm’s information systems, against good practice and recommendations included in the “ISO/IEC 27002: 2013 Code of good practice for data security management”. More specifically, it analyzes the overall result and maturity level of Management Solutions’ Corporate Information Systems Security Assessment (ESSI), and the Technical Audits performed by the external auditor.
- Personal Data Protection Audit (GDPR): review of the Firm's level of compliance with the European General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
- Occupational Risk Prevention Audit: audit of the Firm's occupational risk prevention system in accordance with Chapter V of the Spanish RD 39/97 Prevention Services Regulation.
- Energy Efficiency Audit: exhaustive study of the degree of energy efficiency of the main installations, analyzing the energy consuming equipment, the thermal envelope and consumption habits.
- AENOR ISO 9001 Quality Management System Audit: external audit that certifies the Firm's Quality Management System (the Firm's control framework common to the different geographies).
- AENOR UNE 19601 Criminal Compliance Management System Audit: external audit that certifies the Firm's Criminal Risk Management System in accordance with the Spanish criminal code.
-AENOR ISO 27001 Information Security Management System Audit: external audit that certifies the Firm's Information Security Management System (the Firm’s control framework is the same for all of its different geographies).
- AENOR ISO 22301 Business Continuity Management System Audit: external audit that certifies the Firm's Business Continuity Management System.
- Carbon Footprint Calculation Audit, according to UNE-EN ISO 14064:2018 - AENOR: external audit that certifies the footprint calculation performed by the Firm.
As a result of all of the above, and on a recurring basis, the Firm carries out a series of actions that reinforce its control environment and are in addition to its commitment to quality, regulatory compliance, IT security and service continuity (for which we have been certified under the corresponding external standards ISO9001, ISO14064, UNE19601, ISO22301 and ISO27001).
The following are some of the main actions carried out in the area of risk control and management:
Criminal Compliance Management System
Management Solutions' Criminal Compliance Management System implements zero tolerance to all types of criminal acts. In particular, in light of their activity, those affecting corruption, money laundering, confidentiality and personal data protection. As a result, the Spanish Association for Standardization and Certification (AENOR) has recognized that our Criminal Compliance Management System meets the UNE 19601 standard for business consulting activities and related technologies.
The UNE 19601 standard lays down best practices to prevent crime, reduce risk and promote a corporate culture that is ethical and compliant with the Law. In particular, this standard focuses on the analysis of policies and procedures set for:
- preventing the commission of crimes that may entail criminal liability for the Firm;
- disseminating the culture of prevention and compliance in the organization;
- establishing adequate surveillance and control measures to prevent crimes and to significantly reduce the risk of committing them;
- improving management, helping to reduce criminal risk and providing greater security and trust assurance to government bodies, shareholders and investors, among other stakeholder groups.
Although the scope of the UNE 19601 is limited to the Parent company, the policies and procedures that comply with it in the Firm are global, which once again shows our firm commitment to strict compliance with the applicable legislation and its extension to other countries in which we provide services.
Corruption and bribery prevention
Working together with Management Solutions’ partners, the Firm’s Compliance and Internal Audit function implements measures to prevent corruption and bribery:
- Employee training: training provided to all Management Solutions professionals includes the content of our Anti-Corruption and Anti-Bribery Policy at the appropriate level of detail.
- Performance incentives: the Firm's remuneration system makes sure that professionals are not encouraged to carry out practices that could be considered bribery and/ or corruption.
- Suspicious activity: the Firm has established procedures that allow its employees and/or third parties to report suspicious activities. These procedures are clearly communicated and are available to all employees and stakeholders.
Money laundering prevention
Management Solutions is committed to all national and international rules and regulations in force in the fight against money laundering (and terrorist financing).
In the pursuit of this commitment, the Firm has established internal procedures that mitigate the risk of money laundering. Both our Client and Business Supplier Registration Procedure and our Supplier Management Procedure establish the requirements that our clients and suppliers must satisfy before we establish business relationships with them (e.g. compliance with the Know Your Customer regulations).
Management Solution's concern and commitment to combating money laundering, as well as its knowledge of money laundering prevention, led the firm to publish the white paper "Financial Crime: Trends and Challenges in the Digital Age" in 2023, which is described in more detail in the "Commitment to the Client" section.
Control of the Firm's supply chain
To be able to increase the quality of our services, and improve the effectiveness and competitiveness of our organization, at Management Solutions we require our suppliers to carry out their activity under principles that are similar to ours, as well as to respect the law and regulations in force in the countries where they operate.
Management Solutions has established a supplier registration policy that requires an analysis prior to engaging a supplier, particularly in the case of suppliers providing relevant services. The analysis includes aspects such as data on the company, its corporate structure, reputation and compliance, as well as its commitment to sustainability. The QA function analyzes the supplier questionnaire and issues a final assessment before the organization can be registered as an authorized supplier.
Management Solutions also has a Supplier Code of Conduct through which the Firm seeks to extend its firm commitment to business ethics to include its suppliers, business partners and third parties in general.
Slavery and human trafficking statement
Our policies reflect our commitment to human rights and to the highest standards of integrity, making slavery incompatible.
Although the risk assessment carried out by MS found that the risk of slavery within our business activity is low, this risk is mitigated through our internal policies (Code of Conduct and Supplier Code of Conduct, Compliance Policy, Criminal Risk Management Procedure and Human Resources Policies), and through strict control of our suppliers (all our contracts with third parties are governed by specific and globally aligned Business Terms and Conditions that specifically mention our “Slavery and human trafficking statement” and the obligation not to commit any related crime).
The detail of all our measures in this regard are contained in the “Slavery and human trafficking statement” published on the Management Solutions website.
Control over contributions to foundations and non-profit organizations
Management Solutions is proud of its contribution to society based on a number of social activities that include donations and support to charities as well as sponsorships.
The Firm has mechanisms in place to ensure that such activities are not designed to create any competitive business advantage. These mechanisms include an analysis of the specific charities to ensure that their mission and objectives are aligned with those of Management Solutions. Once this analysis has been conducted, our Social Action Committee (which is chaired by the Firm’s Head of Corporate Departments and has the Marketing and Human Resources managers as members) approves the activity, which is then endorsed by the Partners Committee if appropriate.
Management Solutions has signed several collaboration agreements with different foundations and organizations that promote solidarity, entrepreneurship or social integration causes. These causes are described in more detail in the “Commitment to the environment” chapter.
Cyber-environment control
In a context of increasingly significant cybersecurity risks, arising mainly from technological development (or the digitalization of companies), as well as from company integration processes in different industries and the professionalization of attackers, Management Solutions has an Information Security Management System (ISMS) recognized with the ISO 27001 certification, issued by AENOR, an international standard that lays down the necessary requirements to set up, implement, maintain and improve an ISMS.
Management Solutions’ ISMS, supplemented by the Firm's Security Policy, aims to guarantee information security, ensuring the proper operation of the Firm's information systems through efficient and secure management of the computer and communications systems that compose it. They also establish guidelines for controlling system access, security of communications, and system use by personnel.
The achievement in 2019 and subsequent renewals of ISO 27001 certification in cybersecurity, following an audit on the organization, processes, methodologies and controls in place at the Firm, shows Management Solutions’ commitment and competence in the processing of confidential information.
Business Continuity Management System
In order to strengthen the Firm's corporate Control Framework and respond to a growing need by clients and regulatory and supervisory entities, Management Solutions has a Business Continuity Management System that ensures the continuity of the Firm's critical activities in the event of a serious incident (both internal and external activities for the provision of services).
In 2020, within a context marked by the pandemic, Management Solutions' Business Continuity Management System received certification in UNE-EN ISO 22301:2020 Citizen Protection and Security from AENOR, proving that the Firm meets the best standards in business continuity procedures in any event that may interrupt its activity, with special mention to the Firm’s continuity management effort during the COVID-19 health crisis.
Our commitment to responsible tax conduct and good tax practices is another pillar of our governance. We are aware of the impact that such practices have on the global economy and on the well-being of all, and therefore we act with transparency and comply with tax regulations and tax obligations in each of the jurisdictions in which we operate.
We are aware of the relevance, in the current context, of the risks related to cybersecurity and the confidential treatment of the information (of employees, customers and other business partners) to which the Firm has access in the course of its business. These risks arise mainly from the technological development and digitalization of companies, the processes of integration of companies in different industries and the professionalization of attackers.
Management Solutions has an Information Security Management System (ISMS) recognized with the ISO 27001 certification, issued by AENOR (an international standard that lays down the necessary requirements to set up, implement, maintain and improve an ISMS) following an audit on the organization, processes, methodologies and controls in place at the Firm.
Management Solutions’ ISMS, supplemented by the Firm's Security Policy, aims to guarantee information security, ensuring the proper operation of the Firm's information systems through efficient and secure management of the computer and communications systems that compose it. They also establish guidelines for controlling system access, security of communications, and system use by personnel.
In order to strengthen the Firm's corporate Control Framework and respond to a growing need by clients and regulatory and supervisory entities, Management Solutions has a Business Continuity Management System that ensures the continuity of the Firm's critical activities in the event of a serious incident (both internal and external activities for the provision of services).
Since 2020, Management Solutions' Business Continuity Management System received certification in UNE-EN ISO 22301:2020 Citizen Protection and Security from AENOR, proving that the Firm meets the best standards in business continuity procedures in any event that may interrupt its activity, with special mention to the Firm’s continuity management effort during the COVID-19 health crisis. Being able to continue with our operations in adverse situations is very important for the stability of our professionals, clients and suppliers.
At Management Solutions, we believe that AI can have a profound and positive impact on the way we serve clients and, ultimately, society.
However, we also recognize that the rapid expansion of AI technologies brings with it certain risks, including: the possibility of generating erroneous or inaccurate information; greater exposure to risks related to the confidentiality of information; excessive dependence on restrictions on its use (regulation); a potential loss of team skills; the need to explain non-replicable results; and excessive consumption of energy resources.
In order to mitigate these potential risks, Management Solutions published an internal policy in 2023 that provides a clear framework for the effective, ethical and safe use of AI in our firm, and established the AI Quality Assurance Committee to ensure that we reap the benefits of AI in a safe and fair manner. In this regard, the development of this policy and the establishment of this committee are an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to responsible and ethical technological innovation.
UN Global Compact Partners
In December 2010 Management Solutions committed to the United Nations Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and later to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), also set by the United Nations as a follow-up to the former. Both the MDGs and SDGs seek to contribute to the protection of the planet and the prosperity of all its inhabitants, especially those who are most disadvantaged. SDGs are articulated around a set of goals that synthesize our way of thinking as an organization in terms of CSR, particularly in areas such as combating poverty and hunger, promoting health and well-being, fighting against all types of discrimination, protecting the environment, investing in quality global education and contributing to entrepreneurship and quality work.
Also, to show its firm commitment to CSR, Management Solutions abides by the principles of the UN Global Compact, an international initiative that promotes corporate social responsibility (CSR).
As a result, Management Solutions will become a partner of the Spanish UN Global Compact Network, committing to integrating the principles endorsed by this Agreement into its business activities:
• Human Resources: in terms of human rights, Management Solution carries out a number of actions in the area of human rights (see breakdown of activities carried out within the framework of the Sustainable Development Goals on the following pages). The Firm also has mandatory policies that govern the conduct of all its professionals and ensure everyone commits to these goals.
• Workers’ rights: Management Solutions supports the eradication of child labor and all forms of forced labor or work under coercion. Additionally, the Firm has an Equality Plan and an Anti-discrimination and Anti-harassment Policy, and complies with applicable labor regulation in all countries where it operates. All its professionals are covered by the laws and collective agreements that protect their rights.
• Environment: In addition to a guide to good environmental practices, Management Solutions has an environmental management system that reflects the Firm's effort to preserve the environment. Also, our professionals are actively involved in different initiatives towards the conservation of the environment. In line with this objective, and despite the fact that the environmental impact of our activity is very limited, we have announced our commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2030. We intend to do this by reducing Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions and offsetting those emissions that cannot be eliminated through constantly evolving our activity and using the most innovative solutions, in order to achieve sustainable growth aligned with international environmental agreements.
• Anti-corruption: Management Solutions is firmly committed to rigorous compliance with applicable legislation, and holds the UNE19601 Criminal Compliance Certificate (on best practices to prevent crime, reduce risk and promote an ethical and law compliant corporate culture), putting all its operational processes through continuous auditing.
These two United Nations initiatives are the backbone of our CSR strategy and will mark the main strategic lines of action in these areas for the coming years.
Seres Foundation, Spain
Management Solutions has joined the Board of Trustees of the SERES Foundation, a non-governmental organization made up of 150 companies whose mission is to foster the business sector's commitment to improving social reality.
BCSD Portugal Members
Management Solutions is member of the Business Council for Sustainable Development (BCSD) Portugal network, a non-governmental organization whose mission is to help its more than 180 member companies on their path towards sustainability, promoting a positive impact for stakeholders, society and the environment. BCSD Portugal is a non-profit association that inspires and helps build organizations and business models that are competitive, innovative and sustainable, working with companies in the three areas of sustainability (social, environmental and governance). BCSD Portugal is part of the global network of the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD), the largest international business organization working in the field of sustainable development.
Members of POLSIF (Polish Sustainable Investment Forum)
Management Solutions is member of the Polish Sustainable Investment Forum (POLSIF), leading Polish market organization dedicated to promoting sustainable investment practices in the country. Modeled after the European Sustainable Investment Forum (EUROSIF), a network of national forums dedicated to sustainable investment across Europe, the Polish Sustainable Investment Forum (POLSIF) operates as a collaborative platform composed of leading investment firms, banks and sustainability experts with the aim of promoting sustainable financing practices in Poland.
Promoting innovation and entrepreneurship, as well contributing differential value to society, are also among our main lines of action. We want to remain at the forefront of knowledge and meet the market's growing demand for innovation.
In the changing reality we live in, our Research and Development function reflects Management Solutions' firm commitment to remaining at the forefront of the industry and responding to the market's growing demand for innovation.
The R&D department is tasked with analyzing, developing, and disseminating knowledge about methodologies, regulations and the macroeconomic situation, to all of Management Solutions’ stakeholders: clients, professionals, collaborators and universities, thus driving the Firm’s pro-active approach to anticipating change.
The R&D area focuses its efforts on four fields (methodology, economic analysis, regulatory analysis and knowledge management), and its goals are set according to a multi-year plan approved and monitored by the Firm’s Executive Committee.
Methodology (R&D&i)
From a methodology standpoint, the R&D team provides advisory services to Management Solutions’ professionals and their clients in quantitative aspects that are necessary to undertake projects with rigor and excellence through the implementation of best practices and the continuous monitoring of the latest trends in Data Science, Machine Learning, modeling and Big Data.
For this, our R&D team works with a specialized team of data scientists who, in collaboration with other external groups, research new applications, design and develop specific solutions (prototypes, software, etc.) capable of responding to the new challenges faced by industries, and certify the quality of the methodologies applied.
These activities are further enhanced by the support of an Expert Advisory Committee tasked with advising and providing guidance, particularly in the areas of Machine Learning, Deep Learning and Artificial Intelligence and related technologies, as well as assisting in trend identification and potential research avenues.
Management Solutions also collaborates closely with various universities, participates in applied research conferences, leads projects in graduate programs as well as internships in Mathematics, Statistics and Physics faculties and Engineering schools, and has begun collaborating with research teams in the field of virology, contributing its expertise in Data Science and algorithms.
The Firm is also a member of the Monitoring Committee of the iDanae Chair for Big Data and Analytics at Universidad Politécnica de Madrid and a founding member of the Social Impact and Hydrogen Studies Chairs, both at Universidad Pontificia Comillas (on which more information can be found in other sections).
Knowledge management
With regard to knowledge management, the R&D team directs and coordinates Management Solutions’ publications system, both external and internal (white papers, alerts on publication of new regulations, macroeconomic outlook reports, briefing papers and implications of new rules, etc.).
• White papers: our R&D area prepares in-depth monographic studies on the research, innovation and synthesis of current issues in the Firm's sectors of activity and of interest to clients and professionals.
• Training materials: the R&D area provides support in the centralization and review of newly updated training materials, both internal and those used in third-party training.
• FinRegAlerts, Management Solution’s financial regulatory alerts app: a free app for mobile devices developed by the Firm to facilitate the monitoring of financial regulatory alerts published by international, European and local regulators.
Economic analysis
• Current economic situation reports: the R&D department, in collaboration with experts from the firm's network of offices, constantly monitors the evolution of the main macroeconomic indicators (GDP, unemployment rate, CPI, etc.) of the economies in which it has a major presence, and draws conclusions on their foreseeable evolution over the coming months. This monitoring takes the form of two quarterly publications: a Global Macroeconomic Situation Report (cross-country) focusing on macroeconomic indicators, and twenty-two detailed reports (one per country) which, in addition to local macroeconomic information, provide an overview of the main sectoral indicators (banking and insurance, energy and telecommunications).
• Benchmark analysis: based on the knowledge base generated from these reports and through analysis of alternative information sources, R&D also carries out benchmark analysis from public information on the clients and countries in which the Firm operates.
Regulatory analysis
• Regulatory monitoring: the R&D area has an active system in place to monitor regulations on the Firm’s areas of activity, which enables R&D to anticipate and detect regulatory publications at an early stage in geographical areas of influence.
• Alerts: publication alerts allow for immediate knowledge of regulatory changes by our professionals and clients.
• Analysis: on those new regulations with a greater impact on or interest for clients, R&D prepares overviews and analysis of implications, contributing their synthesis and critical thinking capabilities.
Our commitment to both research and the university world has led Management Solutions to set up Chairs in collaboration with prestigious universities to undertake academic, research and knowledge dissemination activities.
iDanae Chair on Big Data and Analytics in the UPM
In 2019, the Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM) and Management Solutions signed a collaboration agreement for the creation of the iDanae Chair (intelligence, data, analysis and strategy after its Spanish acronym) on Big Data and Analytics with the aim of promoting technology knowledge development, dissemination and transfer, and fostering R&D&i in the area of Data Analysis.
This Chair aims to focus on developing four components that are part of the value chain of society’s most important assets today, such as information and knowledge.
- Intelligence, through the generation of algorithms that provide solutions to current challenges.
- Data, as a source of information for obtaining knowledge.
- Analysis, through robust techniques and advanced models, incorporating Machine Learning techniques.
- Strategy, designed based on the analysis of trends in knowledge technology so as to generate a long-term development plan going forward.
The Chair has a clear formative and informative intent. For this reason, it organizes training sessions on topics of interest related to data analysis, as well as other outreach events and informative sessions. The Chair also has a scholarship plan to support the best students in their academic career, and awards a prize to the best final year project.
One of the lines of work developed by the iDanae Chair, promoted by Management Solutions and the Polytechnic University of Madrid (UPM), is the analysis of metatrends in the field of Analytics. In order to detect metatrends, it is important to analyze public and private investment projects, as well as the elements highlighted by organizations, companies and other related stakeholders.
The Chair publishes quarterly reports analyzing metatrends in the field of Analytics such as "Artificial intelligence applied to the healthcare sector", "Large Language Models: a new era in Artificial Intelligence", "The use of AI in human resources management" and "The use of AI in marketing and sales".
Social Impact Chair
Universidad Pontificia Comillas, Open Value Foundation, Fundación Repsol and Management Solutions signed a collaboration agreement in 2020 for the creation of the Social Impact Chair, aiming to promote the knowledge, research and innovation surrounding impact investment. It links the sustainable growth of companies and the social and environmental impact of their operations and investments.
The Chair, which Mapfre joined in 2023 through its Sustainable Finance Observatory, aims to provide spaces for debate and reflection, train specialized professionals and create a pioneering knowledge think tank in Spain with recognized experts to reflect on the future of investment in this area, the measurement of impact, risk management and the promotion of transparency in environmental, social and good corporate governance (ESG).
The activity in 2023 focused on the publication of "Proposals for the Measurement and Management of Social Impact. Measuring to decide', which offers the impact ecosystem several basic keys for the development of robust, rigorous and efficient social impact measurement, based on the experience of a group of diverse organizations that make up the think tank of the Social Impact Chair and its community of practice.
Chair of Hydrogen Studies
The Comillas Pontifical University, Acerinox, BBVA, Carburos Metálicos, Cepsa Foundation, Enagás, Redeia (formerly Red Eléctrica de España), Toyota and Management Solutions signed a collaboration agreement in 2021 for the creation of the Chair of Hydrogen Studies, with the aim of studying the role of hydrogen as a new energy vector in the transition process towards a decarbonized economy and contributing to its development.
The Chair provides spaces for debate and reflection as well as for training specialized professionals, and has created a pioneering knowledge think tank in Spain bringing together recognized experts to study the role of hydrogen as a new energy vector in the transition towards a decarbonized economy and to prepare proposals for the development of new business models and the necessary regulatory adaptations.
Initiatives in this field include an active presence in professional associations related to our activity, as well as a permanent calendar of external outreach activities.
Spanish Energy Club (ENERCLUB)
Management Solutions is a member of the Spanish Energy Club (ENERCLUB). The ENERCLUB was established to provide a forum for dialogue and for the exchange of ideas among companies and professionals in the energy industry, with the main goals of fostering new ideas on the rational use of energy, the conservation of the environment and sustainable development.
Thanks to the support and financial contribution of its members, this Club has managed to sustain its activity for over 20 years in four broad areas: energy know-how, training.
Spanish Risk Management Club
Management Solutions is a member of the Board of Trustees of the Spanish Risk Management Club and, with its financial contributions, helps to create and sustain the activities that form part of the Club’s founding purpose.
The main objectives of this new association are to act as a meeting point and provide a forum for debate on the systems and methods used to manage, monitor, analyze and measure the risks arising from financial activity. The association also acts to foster the exchange of ideas, experiences and opinions on best practices in this field. Its objectives also include maintaining close contact with regulatory authorities and other bodies pursuing the same goals, and disseminating knowledge through the organization and development of FRM (Financial Risk Manager) training programs and internet courses.
As a trustee of the Club and with one of its partners sitting on the Board of Directors, Management Solutions contributes to the financing and maintenance of the various activities that are organized.
Dominican Republic's Risk Management Club
With the aim of contributing to the promotion of risk culture in the country, the implementation of international best practices, training and research in risk management, Management Solutions joined the Risk Management Club of the Dominican Republic (CGRRD) during the year.
The CGRRD's mission is to promote risk culture, the exchange of ideas, analysis, research, experiences and contrasting opinions among members on best practices in risk management and local and international regulations to strengthen financial companies in the country.
Industry 4.0 Observatory, Spain
At the end of 2023, Management Solutions signed an agreement with the Industry 4.0 Observatory whereby the Firm joined its Board of Trustees as of January 1, 2024.
The Industry 4.0 Observatory is a forum for the exchange of ideas and experiences, made up of professionals from various industrial sectors, whose aim is to provide a permanent framework for debate, training, dissemination of information, research and issuing opinions on Industry 4.0.
UK Finance, United Kingdom
In 2014 Management Solutions became an associate member of UK Finance, a leading UK organization that represents the interest of more than 240 financial institutions operating in more than 180 countries.
The UK Finance promotes and supports policies and initiatives that are favorable to both their members and the wider public, with their center on 3 priorities: i) Ensuring the correct relationship between financial institutions and customers, regardless of size, ii) Promoting growth in the UK, working towards consolidating it as a global financial center, iii) Raising standards in the banking industry – both professional and ethical.
Finance and Leasing Association, United Kingdom
In 2021, Management Solutions joined the Finance and Leasing Association (FLA), an industry association that brings together leading organizations in the asset finance, consumer and auto finance sectors in the United Kingdom.
The FLA represents 246 members - including the UK's leading entities in the asset finance, consumer, automotive and other sectors, before the Government, Regulators and European Institutions, and is currently the largest such association in Europe.
The FLA promotes policies and initiatives to improve the business environment in which its members operate and to help them grow in a sustainable way, as well as to achieve a financial market that both consumers and businesses trust, all under the values of trust, leadership and collaboration.
AIFIRM Associazione Italiana Financial Industry Risk Managers
Management Solutions has been a member of AIFIRM (Associazione Italiana Financial Industry Risk Management) since 2016. AIFIRM is an association that brings together and represents professionals in the financial, banking and insurance industries working in the risk departments of the country’s main financial institutions. The organization aims to improve the organizational standards of the corporate functions involved in risk measurement, and to share knowledge of risk measurement criteria in order to improve their operation and use.
Institute of Spanish Actuaries
Management Solutions is a supporting member of the Institute of Spanish Actuaries (IAE), Spain’s main actuarial association and a full member of the Groupe Consultatif Actuariel Européen and the International Actuarial Association.
The Institute’s main functions are to: represent its members in any issues related to its activity, organize and foster all kinds of studies and activities related to the actuarial profession, collaborate with the competent bodies and authorities when the professional activity needs to be regulated (this regulation will adhere to the most rigorous scientific and ethical principles), exercise authority, protect and monitor the professional activities of the Institute members, resolve any professional issues that may arise among its members and establish and maintain relationships and exchanges with national or international bodies of a technical, scientific or professional nature while pursuing activities totally or partially related to the Institute’s purposes.
Círculo de Empresarios, Spain
Círculo de Empresarios in Spain is a thought and debate think tank that serves the Spanish society. It aims to promote free market and free enterprise principles, recognize the social value of entrepreuners as creators of jobs, wealth and general wellbeing, and to advance entrepreneurial spirit.
Through its Chairman, Management Solutions collaborates with the Institution, and since 2017, has been directing the Working Group on Digital Transformation. Their main objective is to prepare documentation that facilitates the understanding and implications of digital transformation, primarily focusing on companies while providing educational and practical content that is supported by academics and experts.
Club de Chief Data Officers Spain & Latam
Management Solutions is an official sponsor of the CDO Club Spain & Latam, an exclusive networking and exchange space for Chief Data Officers (CDO) to transform the data culture in Spanish and Latin American companies.
The CDO Club is an association made up of the CDOs of some of the main companies in Spain and the Latin American region. It was created to give service and value to data professionals, generate networking and provide knowledge to its members, with the aim of being a key group in the digital transformation of companies and promote data as a strategic element in organizations.
Data Ethics Club
Management Solutions is a sponsor of the Data Ethics Club, a community created in 2023, driven by the Chief Data Officers Club Spain & Latam and made up of multidisciplinary professionals concerned about the need to implement ethical standards in the use of data by both public and private organizations.
Chambers of commerce
Management Solutions is a supporting member of the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in China, the Brazil Chamber of Commerce in Spain, the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in Brazil, the Polish-Spanish Chamber of Commerce, the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in Italy, the British Chamber of Commerce in Spain and the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in the UK. The aim of these institutions is to strengthen ties between organizations.
Organization, sponsorship and participation in professional seminars and conferences
In addition to our active collaboration with professional organizations, we keep an ongoing calendar of informative activities and organize, sponsor and participate in specific seminars and conferences on topics of relevance and interest to any of the sectors we serve.
Concern for the consequences of climate change and for ensuring the sustainability of the economy (understood as its ability to meet the present needs of the population without compromising the well-being of future generations) has come to the forefront of the global collective consciousness.
Major investors are demanding greater transparency in relation to environmental, social and corporate governance (ESG) criteria to ensure that they are assessed and managed.
In parallel, opportunities are proliferating in new sectors, with large public and private equity investments aimed at fostering a just transition to a carbon-neutral economy, as well as promoting impact investing.
In this context, regulators, supervisors and international institutions are developing regulations and standards with the aim of channeling investments into the transition to a low-carbon economy, increasing transparency regarding sustainability and environmental and social risks, and ensuring the resilience of the economy.
This requires far-reaching changes in strategy, production processes, business and risk management, and organizational disclosure.
At Management Solutions, we accompany many of our clients in their transition strategy towards a sustainable production model, helping them to implement methodologies for measuring the impact of ESG risks on their businesses, disclose the sustainability of their activities under different international frameworks and regulations, etc. DDuring the last few years we have developed differential cross-cutting competencies (included in the different categories detailed above) in the area of sustainability and climate change risk management. In this way, we intend to actively contribute to increasing the knowledge of companies to successfully face the challenges that this transformation entails.
