Octavio Peñaloza

Octavio Peñaloza

Class of 2005

Born in Mexico City on July 7, 1946, Octavio received a degree in industrial engineering and a postgraduate degree in management from UNAM, Facultad de Ingenieria, in Mexico City.

He began work in 1969 as an industrial engineer with Chrysler, and a year later, married Graciela. They have three sons, Octavio, Fernando and Alejandro.

In 1971, Octavio joined Mexico City’s government in a systems and planning position, a year later signing on as an international project manager for Banamex (Citigroup). From 1977 to 1980, he was general manager for Alfa Alimentos, and during the first half of the 1980s, he served as a sales manager and financial advisor for Fundicion Aux.

In 1986, he joined his family’s company, Chocolates Turin, where he served as CEO at the time of his induction. Under his leadership, the company became the first Mexican chocolate manufacturer to export its products to five continents.

“Always set high goals, maintain an open and clear mind, be very flexible and adapt quickly to change,” advises Octavio. “Concentrate on opportunities and the positive, and surround yourself with capable people.”

Octavio credits his wife, for her care and support, and as one of his career’s most important influences. He is also proud of his sons, who represent Turin’s fourth generation, for their involvement in the company. A personal hero of Octavio’s is Pope John Paul II, whom he met five times.

Among Octavio’s hobbies are collecting fossils, reading and writing poetry and traveling – he has visited more than 80 countries.

Octavio passed away on September 22, 2022.