Betar

To get to know you better, tell us about your career path until you reach the position you hold today.

From a very young age, I grew up immersed in the world of construction, surrounded by family members who worked in this area and who fueled my passion for construction. I naturally became a civil engineer.

My professional career began at Mota-Engil, where I joined through an internship program promoted by the company to recruit recent graduates. I began my professional career in Portugal, on a project that made a big impression on me, the Rehabilitation of the Rossio Tunnel, which became a milestone for me, firstly because it was my first experience as a professional and because of the complexity and unique opportunity of being on such an emblematic project. I’ve taken part in various projects in Portugal, both in the public and private sectors, and in different areas, which has contributed significantly to my experience and to solidifying my knowledge.

In 2010, Portugal was going through a sharp financial crisis, and, at the end of that year, the opportunity arose to embrace a new international challenge, Africa, where I would have the chance to work in a totally challenging environment and expand my personal and professional horizons. And so began my journey through Mozambique, with different challenges… a truly enriching experience. Career development came naturally, as I gained experience, I also took on greater responsibilities, and I’m currently Production Director at Mota-Engil, Mozambique Branch.

What are your main responsibilities and biggest challenges in this position?

Challenges? Quite a few but managing and supervising ongoing projects and defining strategies to ensure efficiency and profitability, together with creating good relationships with our partners and clients, have been the main ones. Naturally, following the company’s strategic guidelines and objectives, always ensuring compliance with local rules and regulations.

In addition to the numerous challenges peculiar to the Mozambican market. I would highlight human resources management, especially regarding training and retaining local talent, which is a critical point for ensuring the sustainability of operations.

What does the country need to increase its competitiveness? Can you see what the priorities should be?

Mozambique has immense potential, but it also faces significant challenges that need to be overcome to increase its competitiveness. Investment in basic infrastructure, such as roads, hospitals, energy, water supply and sanitation, is essential and can act as a lever to attract more foreign investment. It is essential to promote sustainable economic growth, facilitating the flow of goods, services and people, and making the country more attractive for international business and partnerships.

You have chosen Betar as a partner in some projects. What characteristics do you look for in the companies that work with you?

Betar and Mota-Engil have worked together on several projects, albeit in different roles. In some cases, Betar acts as supervisor or designated designer, while in others it collaborates directly with Mota-Engil as a specialist in the development of technical solutions.

In a challenging context such as Mozambique, it is essential that partners like Betar, in addition to their technical capacity, have a vision focused on efficiency, commitment to deadlines and results. Collaboration, availability, reliability and flexibility are essential attributes for success.

What are your prospects for the future, for yourself and for the company?

My outlook for the future is very optimistic, even in the face of challenges, both personally and for Mota-Engil. I’m confident that the company will continue to expand and establish itself as an international benchmark, standing out for its excellence and innovation. Mota-Engil has demonstrated a strong ability to adapt to changes and the needs of the sectors in which it operates, always with a focus on sustainability and creating value for local communities.

About my personal development, I intend to continue investing in the areas of management and leadership, and of course, connected to Mota-Engil. I am enthusiastic and committed to continuing to grow within Mota-Engil and to contributing, on my own scale, to meeting current and future challenges.

This interview is an integral part of Revista Artes & Letras #170, novembro 2024
Partially automatic translation from portuguese: some expressions may differ from their actual meaning.