Ignacio Fernandez de Castro

Could you share something unexpected or a fun fact about you?

I was born 16 days earlier than expected, just in time for the feast of Saint Ignatius of Loyola on July 31st. Coming from a religious family, that day held special meaning for my parents, who had a bet that if I was born then, I’d be named Ignacio, and if not, I’d be called Javier. So, I guess destiny decided for me. 

The name Ignacio comes from the Latin ignis, meaning fire or ignite, which feels quite fitting. As a Leo, I’ve always felt that same energy in how I lead and create. Interestingly, I later studied at Saint Ignatius School in Barcelona, so it feels like my path was set from the start.

Tell us about yourself and how you got to where you are today.

I’m a Spanish architect who has always been fascinated by how design can shape the way people live. My mother is an architect and my father a civil engineer, so I grew up surrounded by drawings, construction sites and creative discussions at home. That mix of design and engineering shaped how I think about space, as both an artistic expression and a technical craft. It naturally led me to study architecture in Barcelona, continue in Chicago and complete my master’s in Madrid.

Those years opened the door to experiences across continents. Through more than 50 months of internships and professional work in Europe, Asia and the Americas, I learned how different cultures approach design and construction. I’ve had the privilege of working with studios like Kengo Kuma, Orms and b720 Arquitectos, where I discovered distinct philosophies of architecture, from Japanese craftsmanship to adaptive reuse in Europe.

Most recently, I joined Zaha Hadid Architects in London, where I’ve contributed to major international projects as a Lead Architect, including the €400M Mercury Towers in Malta, as well as developments in Mexico, Georgia and China. I’ve worked across all stages of design, from concept to construction, which gave me a full understanding of how vision and execution come together. 

These experiences taught me that architecture is not just about form or scale but about people, collaboration and purpose. That realisation is what brought me to the INSEAD MBA to expand my impact beyond design and bridge creativity with business strategy and innovation.

What motivated you to choose the INSEAD MBA, and how do you envision it aligning with your future goals?

I chose INSEAD for its global mindset and the opportunity to learn from people with completely different professional backgrounds.

Coming from architecture, I wanted to challenge myself by stepping into new disciplines like finance, business strategy and leadership. My goal is to build a broader foundation that will allow me to make more informed and strategic decisions in the future.

I’m also fascinated by how technology and innovation are transforming the built environment, from AI to sustainable development and real estate strategy. INSEAD gives me the platform to explore these intersections and to grow beyond design into a more versatile and impactful leader, whether that leads me to start something of my own or to drive change within a larger organisation.

What are your impressions of campus life so far, and how did you navigate accommodation and sorting out all the admin? Any tips for incoming students?

Campus life is vibrant, fast-paced, and incredibly international. From the first day, you feel the energy of people from so many backgrounds coming together to share ideas and experiences. The housing process can be a bit overwhelming at first, but the INSEAD WhatsApp groups and alumni advice made it much easier.

I’m currently living with five classmates, and I feel very lucky to have found them. They’re smart, supportive, and have already become close friends. My tip for incoming students is to join the pre-MBA webinars and connect early. That’s how I met them, and it made all the difference.

Could you share a little about your application process?

Reaching my target GMAT score was a real test of focus and perseverance. Balancing full-time work at one of the world’s top architecture firms with studying after hours wasn’t easy, especially after being out of study mode for eight years. Eventually, I took two weeks off to fully dedicate myself to preparation and worked with a private tutor, which helped me achieve the score I needed to apply.

For the essays, I focused on my international architecture journey, leadership experiences, and entrepreneurial drive. Writing them made me reflect deeply on my motivations and long-term vision. The Kira video essays were also a great way to show my authentic self.

The interviews were a real highlight. Both took place in cafés in London and felt more like meaningful conversations than formal evaluations. My interviewers were genuinely curious about my story and experiences, and they shared valuable insights from their own time at INSEAD, which made the whole experience truly inspiring.

You are starting your INSEAD MBA in Singapore. Are you planning any campus exchanges?

Yes, I definitely plan to take advantage of the campus exchange opportunities. My goal is to spend a period in Fontainebleau to strengthen my ties in Europe and connect with INSEAD’s growing network of entrepreneurs, real estate professionals and business leaders. I see it as a chance to explore opportunities beyond architecture and to build relationships that could shape the next steps in my career.

In your first few weeks, what aspects of the INSEAD MBA have stood out to you as unique or particularly appealing?

One moment I’ll never forget was my first Strategy class. The professor was so inspiring and engaging that I almost cried. I actually called my parents right after to tell them how incredible it was. It was the first time I truly felt what makes INSEAD special.

The quality of the faculty has really stood out, along with the diversity of the class. 

There isn’t a single dominant industry or nationality, and that mix of perspectives makes every discussion richer. The intensity of the 10-month programme also creates a unique rhythm where every day counts and you find yourself learning constantly from both professors and classmates.

Aside from your academic pursuits, what extracurricular interests or activities are you exploring at INSEAD, and how do you see them enhancing your overall MBA experience?

From the very beginning of the MBA, I’ve been developing a startup idea that has grown alongside my coursework and interactions with classmates. During my first week, I met a software developer who introduced me to an AI platform that helped bring my concept to life. The frameworks from classes in strategy, entrepreneurship and finance have directly shaped how I refine the business model and test ideas, turning the project into a practical extension of what I learn in class.

Participating in the INSEAD Startup Bootcamp and meeting Entrepreneurs in Residence has been invaluable. One of them, a real estate developer, validated my idea and even expressed interest in becoming both an investor and a potential client, which has been incredibly motivating. I’ve also shared the project with more than twenty classmates whose feedback has helped me refine it further.

Beyond that, I’ve joined the Venture Capital, Entrepreneurship and Real Estate clubs. They’ve been great spaces to exchange ideas, meet people with similar interests and explore how innovation, finance and real estate can come together to create meaningful impact.

Any parting words of wisdom, and are you willing to be contacted for more information by prospective students?

Be authentic throughout the application and stay open to change once you arrive.  INSEAD moves fast and pushes you to rethink how you learn, lead and connect with others. Every day is an opportunity to grow, both personally and professionally.   

It’s intense, but incredibly rewarding. I’d be very happy to be contacted by prospective students who want to learn more about the experience.