CEO and Co-Founder of PAL Robotics to lead European robotics association into its next stage
The European robotics association euRobotics aisbl has appointed a new President, marking a significant milestone for both the organisation and the broader robotics ecosystem in Europe.
At the annual General Assembly held in Stavanger, Norway, during ERF, members ratified the nomination of Francesco Ferro, CEO and Co-Founder of Barcelona-based PAL Robotics, to succeed Bernd Liepert as President of euRobotics.
Francesco brings more than two decades of experience from both industrial and research fields. As CEO of PAL Robotics, he has led the company from its early beginnings in the process of becoming an established contributor in the European robotics landscape. Under his leadership, PAL Robotics has developed service robots used in research, healthcare, retail and industrial environments worldwide, with one purpose: to enhance people’s lives.
His long-standing involvement in euRobotics, holding roles within the Board of Directors, reflects a deep commitment to strengthening collaboration between industry, academia and public institutions. His appointment signals continuity with the association’s foundations, while also reinforcing its connection to companies actively shaping the future of robotics in Europe.
Marking the start of this new phase, Bernd Liepert steps down after more than a decade as President, having ably led euRobotics since its early days. During his presidency, the association consolidated its position as a central platform for the European robotics community, fostering collaboration, supporting innovation and contributing to key public-private initiatives that have advanced the field across the continent.
Francesco Ferro assumes this presidency at a time when robotics is becoming increasingly important to Europe’s technological and industrial strategy. From advancing research to enabling new applications in real-world environments, robotics is playing a growing role across sectors. In this context, euRobotics continues to act as a key interface between stakeholders, helping to align research, industry and policy priorities.
Commenting on his appointment, Francesco Ferro said: “I am delighted and honoured that the members of euRobotics have expressed their confidence in me in this way. I made a commitment to build on the excellent foundations established by Bernd, and with everyone’s support I will keep that commitment, with renewed energy and passion for our community and for robotics.”
Ferro assumes responsibility as President with immediate effect following the conclusion of the General Assembly.
About PAL Robotics
PAL Robotics started in 2004, when a small group of engineers built the first fully autonomous humanoid biped robot in Europe which also happened to play chess. Today the company is still well known for humanoid robots, as well as retail and manufacturing solutions, and develops state-of-the-art robots for companies and research institutions worldwide. PAL Robotics’ mission is to enhance people’s quality of life through service robotics and automation, and the company has also partnered in over 60 collaborative research and development projects to further advance robotic development.
About euRobotics
PAL Robotics started in 2004, when a small group of engineers built the first fully autonomous humanoid biped robot in Europe which also happened to play chess. Today the company is still well known for humanoid robots, as well as retail and manufacturing solutions, and develops state-of-the-art robots for companies and research institutions worldwide. PAL Robotics’ mission is to enhance people’s quality of life through service robotics and automation, and the company has also partnered in over 60 collaborative research projects to further the development of robotics.
For more information or to arrange an interview:
- about PAL Robotics, visit pal-robotics.com or contact Laura Pérez, Communication Specialist, +34 934 14 53 47 marketing@pal-robotics.com
- about euRobotics: visit eu-robotics.net/ or contact Reinhard Lafrenz, Secretary General, euRobotics, +49 171 1222298 reinhard.lafrenz@eu-robotics.net
- euRobotics
- European Robotics Forum
- Robotics
