Miguel Antonio Lorenzo Fabrega has been appointed as the Deputy Director of the Panama Canal. This appointment was made on September 15, 2026, by the Board of Directors of the Panama Canal, and he will work alongside Ilya Espinoy de Marotta, the Canal Director, to manage the challenges and opportunities of this waterway.
Selection Process and Commitment to Transparency
The selection of the Deputy Director was carried out in accordance with processes that align with the institutional framework of the Canal and its legal mission. The Board of Directors conducted a thorough and technical evaluation of several candidates for this position with the aim of maintaining continuity, stability, and the long-term vision of this waterway. The Minister of Canal Affairs and Chairman of the Board, José Ramón Icaza, stated: "With this appointment, we reaffirm our commitment to strong institutions, transparency, and the safe and continuous operations of the Panama Canal."
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Lorenzo's Background and Experience
Lorenzo has 28 years of experience in the Panama Canal and has held various responsibilities throughout his professional career. He began his career as a structural engineer and then served as the Executive Engineering Manager, Deputy Director of the design of the third set of locks, and also as the Vice President of Engineering and Services. Since 2020, he has been working as the Vice President of Infrastructure and Engineering and has played a key role in the design, assessment, and implementation of the Panama Canal development program.
Currently, Lorenzo is responsible for the planning, maintenance, preservation, and strategic management of the Panama Canal's infrastructure and assets. His work focuses on ensuring operational reliability and sustainability while enhancing the Canal's capacity to meet future demands of global maritime trade. His experience combines extensive technical expertise and strong leadership in managing complex projects.
Lorenzo holds a Master's degree in Structural Engineering from the University of Texas at Austin and a graduate degree from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University.
The Board of Directors of the Panama Canal also expressed gratitude to Rubén Pérez Pinzón for his dedication and institutional commitment. Pérez Pinzón will continue to serve as the interim Deputy Director until the new Deputy is appointed.
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