Born in 1961, the so-called "tsar" of Cuba's economic reforms holds a degree in Economics. He served as Vice President of the Council of Ministers and was a member of the Council of State. He held various positions and responsibilities, eventually becoming Minister of Economy and Planning from 2009 to 2011. In September 2014, he was appointed Minister of Economy and Planning, a position he held alongside that of Vice President of the Government and Head of the Permanent Commission for Implementation and Development until he was relieved of his ministerial duties on July 13, 2016, while continuing as Vice President and Head of the Permanent Commission for Implementation and Development.