Early years and where you came from?
I was born and raised in Lisbon, where I lived with my parents and little sister. I was very curious about the world and different cultures from a young age and always intended to study and work abroad. During my studies, I spent a year in Italy within the Erasmus program. I did my master’s degree in Economics and Law in Paris and an executive course in Intellectual Property in Macao, China. I then worked at OECD in Paris and at a healthcare consulting company in Barcelona and Brussels before returning to Lisbon in 2007.
How were you introduced to the world of the Portuguese tech industry?
When I created my first startup (law for all) back in 2012, it was part of the first generation of startups at Startup Lx and beta-i ecosystem. With my background in law, strategy & operations, it felt like I was entering a new world. Tech & entrepreneurship were totally new to me and I learned a lot.
Walk me through your work and what you are doing now in the tech industry.
The main focus of my work is change management. I am currently creating solutions for clients (internal and external) using a human-centric approach, so users are always involved in the process of innovation.
I like to make sure that everyone involved (clients, operational, IT teams, Board) understands the core challenges.
What part of what you do, you love the most?
Problem-solving. I also love it when those more resistant to change and tech are willing to test the product/service and end up adopting it. On top of that, I find the drive and creativity of entrepreneurs incredibly inspiring!
How do you think that your background and knowledge impact the way you approach your work in the Portuguese tech industry?
I had the opportunity to work in so many different teams, industries and roles. Throughout those experiences, I learned that being flexible, willing to learn and collaborating is critical to thriving in any organization or project. And just as important is the ability to learn from our mistakes!
What advice do you have for young women that want to get into tech and don’t know where to start?
Do live and online courses and get involved with your local community of tech and entrepreneurs. Learn as much as you can and be open to new opportunities.
Walk me through a day in your life as a Portuguese women in tech.
I love waking up early and enjoying some time listening to a podcast or audiobook while having breakfast. When the rest of the family is awake, I help the kids get ready for school. Then, whether at the office or virtually from anywhere, I have meetings with clients, and operational and IT teams.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
Done is better than perfect. Always think like an entrepreneur, no matter what circumstance you are in.
What apps/software/tools can’t you live without?
Monday, Zoom, Miro, Spotify, Audible and Excel :)
👉Find Inês on LinkedIn
