Meet Fernando Catalán – Basketball Worldwide Controller at You First, with side ventures in sports and wellness

We had the good fortune of connecting with Fernando Catalán and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Fernando, how has your background shaped the person you are today?
I’m from Madrid, Spain, but I’ve had the opportunity to live in different cities in the USA, New York, and Miami. Growing up in Madrid, I was surrounded by rich culture, history, and a strong sense of community. My upbringing in Spain instilled in me a passion for excellence and a love for sports, mainly soccer, as I’m a lifelong supporter of Real Madrid. These experiences shaped my values (discipline, resilience, and the importance of teamwork), which have been crucial in my personal life and professional career.

Living in New York and Miami has given me a global perspective, allowing me to understand different cultures and adapt to new environments quickly. This diverse experience has significantly impacted how I approach challenges in my career, particularly when managing international teams and projects. It’s also made me more creative and open-minded, an excellent strength in today’s ever-evolving business landscape.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’ve been with You First for the past 12 years, and it continues to be my primary focus as a Basketball Worldwide Controller. During my time in Madrid, New York, and now Miami, I’ve managed the financial operations for the global basketball division, working with top athletes and overseeing international negotiations. This role has been the cornerstone of my career, allowing me to lead in one of the most dynamic industries.

Alongside my work at You First, I’ve also taken on advisory roles in two Miami-based startups. As General Manager, I contribute to RETO Health & Performance, a wellness brand focused on optimizing health, and help with strategic direction. I also provide financial oversight as Chief Financial and Investment Officer at TrendPadel, assisting in shaping the financial strategy and attracting investments. These positions allow me to explore my passion for entrepreneurship while You First remains at the core of my professional life.

Although balancing multiple roles can be demanding, the experience I’ve gained at You First has been invaluable in guiding these ventures. My journey is defined by continuous growth and the application of my leadership and financial expertise across industries.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting Miami, I’d start by showing them the city’s vibrant culture. We’d spend time at Miami Beach, Key Biscayne, and other beach areas, enjoying the ocean and brunching around, followed by exploring the street art of Wynwood Walls and dining at Mila. We’d also visit the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, a stunning European-inspired estate with beautiful architecture and lush gardens, offering a peaceful escape from the city. Afterward, we’d head to Little Havana for a Cuban coffee at Versailles to experience Miami’s Cuban influence. Evenings would be filled with dinners at Zuma or Carbone, and we’d cap off the nights with rooftop drinks at Sugar or by watching a Miami Heat game at Kaseya Center for a taste of local sports energy.

For a change of scenery, I’d plan a road trip to Key West, where we’d explore the island’s laid-back vibe and catch a sunset at Mallory Square. Back in Miami, we’d take a boat around Biscayne Bay and finish the trip with a Miami Dolphins game at Hard Rock Stadium to experience the excitement of the NFL. It would be the perfect mix of culture, leisure, and sports.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to dedicate this to my parents, who taught me the values of hard work, resilience, and integrity. Their unwavering support and guidance have been the foundation of my success.

Website: https://www.teamyoufirst.com/

Instagram: @fctln

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fernando-catal%C3%A1n-jim%C3%A9nez/

Other: https://retohealth.com/
https://trendpadel.com/