After studying the Degree in Economics at Pompeu Fabra University (1994-1998), Iván Santos obtained a Master in Industrial Economics at Carlos III University (1999-2001) and a Postgraduate in EC Competition Law at King's College (London, 2003). Finally he received the IESE Management Development Program (2010).

• From 2001-2013, he held the position of deputy director in the Department of Economic Analysis and Markets of the Telecommunications Market Commission.
• From 2013-2015, Iván Santos developed his activity in the Airport charges unit in the Comisión Nacional de los Mercados y la Competencia (CNMC).
• Since August 2015 – today, he is Head of the Railway Unit at CNMC.