Gustavo Defeo: New Chair of Leather Standards Committee CEN TC 289

Gustavo Adrian Defeo FSLTC has taken over as Chair of CEN Technical Committee (TC) 289 – Leather, assuming responsibility for guiding the development of European standards for the leather industry.

His appointment became effective on June 9, 2026, after receiving the backing of CEN national member bodies. Defeo will serve a six-year term through June 2032, succeeding Gustavo Gonzalez-Quijano.

As Chair, Defeo will oversee the committee's efforts to update and develop standards covering leather terminology, testing procedures and chemical requirements. The committee's work underpins product quality, consumer safety, environmental compliance and the smooth functioning of trade within the European leather market.

With more than four decades of experience as a leather chemist, Defeo has built an extensive career in leather research, testing and technical standardization. He also leads several European and international working groups dedicated to leather testing, bringing significant technical expertise to the role.

Looking ahead, Defeo intends to accelerate the revision of existing standards while strengthening cooperation with ISO. His priorities also include expanding work on bio-based materials and fostering closer collaboration between standards bodies, industry representatives and regulators to ensure European leather standards keep pace with technological and sustainability developments.