Thank you for joining us today. You’ve had an extraordinary journey in the pharmaceutical industry, building brands like Generis®, Inventis®, and Apogen (now Equalmed). What initially inspired you to pursue this path?
Thank you for having me. My journey in the pharmaceutical industry began with a deep commitment to improving global healthcare and expanding access to essential medicines. In 2002, I founded Generis®, which went on to become the largest pharmaceutical company in Portugal and one of the largest in Europe. This pioneering effort culminated in a landmark moment in 2009, when I sold the company to a private equity fund in what remains the largest private equity transaction ever completed in Portugal. This achievement is a testament to the incredible growth and impact we were able to achieve, driven by a passion for high-quality, affordable pharmaceuticals that improve lives.
You’ve launched over 400 generic medicines and built three manufacturing facilities across Portugal and Spain. What were some of the key challenges you faced in scaling these operations?
Scaling a pharmaceutical business involves a complex blend of regulatory hurdles, production challenges, and market competition. Building and overseeing three manufacturing facilities required a relentless focus on quality, operational efficiency, and regulatory compliance. It also demanded significant investments in research and technology to ensure that our products meet the highest standards of safety and efficacy. However, the greatest challenge was maintaining the balance between affordability and quality, ensuring that we could reach as many patients as possible without compromising our standards. This journey taught me the importance of resilience, adaptability, and the power of innovation in overcoming challenges.
Your educational background includes postgraduate studies at Harvard University and the University of Oxford. How has this influenced your leadership approach?
My education at Harvard and Oxford provided me with a broader perspective on global business dynamics, leadership, and strategic management. It reinforced my belief that strong leadership is about inspiring teams to innovate, embrace change, and pursue excellence, even in highly regulated and competitive industries like pharmaceuticals. These experiences also shaped my approach to building sustainable business models that prioritize long-term value over short-term gains. I believe that great leaders must combine vision with the ability to execute, creating environments where innovation thrives and teams are empowered to excel.
We know you have a deep connection to sports. How has this shaped your leadership style and personal development over the years?
Sports have always been an essential part of my life, and the values I learned on the field have deeply influenced my approach to business. I played handball at a competitive level in my youth, which taught me the importance of commitment, teamwork, resilience, and the drive to win. More recently, I’ve developed a passion for rugby, a sport my sons also play, with one of them representing Portugal at the international level. In 2020, I had the privilege of serving as Vice President of the Portuguese Rugby Federation, a role that brought me immense pride and further strengthened my leadership skills. During the challenging COVID-19 period, I also founded the LX50 Handball club, a project that brought together my passion for the sport and my belief in the power of teamwork and resilience. Remarkably, the LX50 Handball club achieved an unprecedented milestone by becoming the first Portuguese team to win the EBT/EHF Beach Handball Champions title in 2022, a historic achievement that was formally recognized by the Portuguese Handball Federation. This journey as both a player and leader in sports has profoundly shaped my business philosophy, teaching me the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
What do you see as the future of the pharmaceuticals industry, and how do you plan to innovate to remain a prominent player in this space?
The pharmaceutical industry is at a critical turning point, driven by advancements in personalized medicine, digital health, and biotechnology. The future will be defined by the ability to leverage data, precision medicine, and cutting-edge research to deliver more targeted and effective therapies. At Inventis, we are investing in innovative solutions that prioritize patient outcomes, including high-tech dietary supplements, advanced anti-aging formulations, and personalized healthcare products. We are also focused on sustainability and digital transformation to stay ahead in this rapidly evolving industry. Our goal is to build a legacy of impact by consistently delivering breakthrough innovations that improve the lives of patients globally. We believe that the next decade will see a revolution in healthcare, where data-driven solutions and precision medicine become the new standard.
The UAE is a highly competitive and dynamic market. Why did you choose to establish a presence in the UAE, and what are your key objectives for this region?
The decision to establish a presence in the UAE was strategic and carefully considered. Inventis UAE will focus on launching innovative solutions and product ranges that, rather than merely treating diseases, aim to prevent them in the first place. Prevention and anti-aging, combined with the power of artificial intelligence, will be the cornerstone of our strategy moving forward. We believe that this proactive approach to health and wellness aligns perfectly with the forward-thinking vision of the UAE and the needs of modern consumers seeking longevity and quality of life. The UAE stands out as a global hub for trade, innovation, and healthcare, offering world-class infrastructure, a pro-business regulatory environment, and access to some of the fastest-growing economies in the Middle East and GCC. Unlike other regions, the UAE combines stability with a forward-looking vision, making it an ideal base for a company like Inventis that seeks to innovate and scale globally. Additionally, the UAE’s commitment to becoming a leader in healthcare and biotechnology aligns perfectly with our long-term goals. Our presence here allows us to connect directly with high-potential markets, build strong regional partnerships, and leverage a diverse, talented workforce. In many ways, the UAE is the perfect launchpad for our global ambitions.
Amidst the chaos of a busy life, what is your favorite spot to unwind and recharge?
Ibiza, without a doubt! The sea, the boat, great food, friends, and family… perfect!
Finally, what advice would you offer to aspiring entrepreneurs looking to make a difference in the healthcare sector?
My advice would be to remain patient, persistent, and purpose-driven. The journey to creating meaningful change in healthcare is challenging, but incredibly rewarding. Focus on building a strong foundation, prioritize quality and integrity, and always keep the needs of patients at the heart of your mission. Surround yourself with talented people, never stop learning, and stay true to your core values, even when faced with setbacks. The healthcare sector demands a unique blend of scientific rigor, commercial acumen, and a deep sense of social responsibility. Those who can master this balance will not only succeed but also make a lasting impact on the world.
