Daniel Fonseca completed his Bachelor's degree in Management at Católica Porto Business School in 2021. Since then, he has built an international career marked by a commitment to public service and strategic management in global contexts. Currently, he lives in Belgium and is part of NATO as Strategic Planning and Resources Management. As part of the "Alumni Spotlight" series, which highlights our former students, we share an inspiring interview about Daniel’s journey.
You completed your degree at Católica Porto Business School. How do you think this helped you stand out in the job market? The Bachelor's in Management at Católica Porto Business School stood out for its consistent public speaking training and its direct connection to the business world from the very first year. This combination allowed me to build professional relationships early on, strengthened my communication in demanding contexts, and gave me the confidence to present, negotiate, and lead effectively.
You are currently working in Strategic Planning and Resources Management at NATO, after previous experiences at the European Parliament, BNP Paribas, and the Bank of Portugal. How would you describe this career progression? I began my career in the banking sector (Banco de Portugal and BNP Paribas), where I consolidated my foundations in statistics, risk management, and portfolio management. Through the CEMS Master in International Management (UCD Dublin, St. Gallen, and CBS Copenhagen), I deepened my skills and opened the door to an international career - first at the European Parliament and later at NATO - in an increasingly global and geopolitically challenging context.
What has been the most exciting challenge of your career? Contributing to high-level negotiations between member states with different interests, in processes that require consensus. It demands rigorous technical preparation, expectation management, and diplomacy grounded in active listening, clarity, and evidence.
How did Católica Porto Business School support your professional journey? Católica instilled in me a truly international mindset and the belief that the job market goes far beyond Portugal. The close connection with companies, academic rigour, ethics, and communication training were essential in accelerating my personal and professional growth and creating new opportunities.
What is your next step? What are your future goals? To continue contributing with excellence at NATO, increasing my impact and responsibilities, while remaining open to global opportunities that foster leadership and public service.
What keeps you connected to Católica Porto Business School? The faculty and the network I built through student associations and volunteering continue to inspire me to give back, to mentor others, and to maintain an active connection with the University.
Favourite book or podcast: “Death with Interruptions” by José Saramago.
Most influential figure during your time at the School: Professor Ana Madsen, who inspired academic enthusiasm and supported me consistently throughout my career.
Fun fact: I was a high-level artistic roller-skating athlete.
Did that experience have any impact on your professional life?
Absolutely. The discipline, dedication, and resilience developed through competitive sport became essential for leading with precision, staying focused in high-pressure environments, and viewing mistakes as part of the improvement process.