An alumnus of the BSc in Management at Católica Porto Business School and currently Fractional CMO & Growth Strategist at Omnien, Bruno Almeida has built an international career in marketing, digital and growth, with experience in companies undergoing rapid expansion in the UK. Read the full interview:
What led you to choose the BSc in Management at Católica Porto Business School, and what attracted you to this option at the time? I chose Católica Porto Business School because of its reputation, both in terms of the faculty and the institution’s principles and values. Looking back, it was an excellent decision.
During your degree, which experiences or moments stood out and still influence the way you work and think today? As Professor Paulo Rangel used to say, the difference at Católica is that, beyond information, we receive education as individuals and as members of a community. I lived the University experience to the full: I worked at the Library, the International Studies Office, on UCP surveys, and was part of the Tuna. All of this helped me develop critical thinking, connect the dots, gain a broader perspective, feel comfortable “on stage”, and strengthen my social skills.
When did you realise that your professional path would evolve towards marketing, digital and growth? I belong to the Passos Coelho generation and moved to the UK in 2011. When I arrived, I focused on digital marketing because of its direct impact on business and its ability to be measured almost in real time. Over time, I took on more senior roles, increasingly linked to business management and go-to-market development. The European geo-expansion project at TrueLayer was, without a doubt, a turning point compared to the more operational roles I had held until then.
After several years of international experience, which skills do you consider essential for young professionals who want to remain relevant in a fast-changing market? For several years, I focused heavily on “tooling”, learning as much as possible about marketing and digital tools. That was important for a while, but I later realised that the best return comes from investing in ourselves. I worked with several coaches who had previously been CMOs and who helped me identify and work on my blind spots.
In addition to your international career, you maintain a close link to Católica Porto Business School as a lecturer. What does it mean to you to remain connected to the School, now from this perspective? It is the cherry on top of the cake. It has been six years now, and I still really enjoy sharing what I have learned. Like some of the professors I had at Católica, I try to bring into the classroom what does not come in books: real experiences, mistakes and practical cases. It is extremely rewarding and pushes me to stay humble and to keep learning and updating what I teach. A special thank you to Susana Silva and Božidar.
For students who aspire to build a career outside Portugal, what advice would you give? If you can have an international experience, go for it. Do not hesitate, even if it is only for six months or a year. Working abroad requires resilience: prepare your move, look for mentors and build your network. I spent 13 years abroad and it was, without a doubt, one of the best experiences of my life. It changed my “operating system” and the way I see work and the world.
The best advice for those just starting out? Define clear personal and work principles, maintain a constant feedback system, and preserve a beginner's mindset.
Favourite book: Principles (Ray Dalio), Zero to One (Peter Thiel) and Siddhartha (Hermann Hesse).
Favourite podcast: Huberman Lab and Diary of a CEO.
Key figure at Católica Porto Business School: Professor Azeredo Lopes, Dr Maria Lopes Cardoso and Professor Susana Silva.
Personal curiosity: I am obsessed with sport, and Oreo biscuits are my kryptonite.
