The Catalan Cork Institute Foundation (ICSURO) begins a new stage with a change in its management. Albert Hereu will leave his position at the end of September, after eleven years of dedication at the head of the institution.

During its time, ICSURO has faced challenges such as the transition from public-private consortium to foundation, the management of Covid or the commissioning of the strategic plan for the cork sector in Catalonia with a horizon of 2030. The new management, as unanimously approved by the board of trustees, will be assumed by Alba Balcells, former director of the Catalan Institute of Vine and Wine (INCAVI), political scientist and with international certificates of knowledge of wine and its production processes from the 'Wine & Spirit Education Trust' (WSET) who joins with great enthusiasm and with the desire to continue the good work done so far, while also providing a renewed look at the challenges of the future.

The Board of Trustees deeply appreciates Hereu's contribution and commitment to the defense and projection of Catalan cork and celebrates the incorporation of Alba Balcells into the foundation. Joan J. Puig, president of ICSuro, considers that "this handover represents a natural and peaceful transition with highly valued professionals at the head of the management, which ensures the continuity of the institution's mission and which will allow for deeper relations with the national and international wine sector thanks to Ms. Balcells' professional ties with the world of wine, the natural destiny of the cork world."

The new director pointed out that "It is an honor to join ICSURO at such a key moment for the sector. I assume this responsibility with the desire to continue the good work done and promote, hand in hand with the sector, a roadmap that will grow the sustainable management of our cork groves. We will work to value Catalan cork, strengthen ties with the industry and project it internationally as a benchmark for sustainability, innovation and national identity."