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How was your first day at Riopele? Do you remember any special moment?
I remember it like it was yesterday, even though it was 29 years ago. It was my first job in Portugal — and I’ve been here ever since. I have a beautiful memory from the day of the interview: I arrived quite early, feeling a mix of nerves and excitement.
The factory was silent, since it was August, and I was immediately impressed as I arrived — the well-kept gardens, the imposing building, the welcoming atmosphere.
I was received with great warmth, and from the first moment, the interview felt more like an honest, friendly conversation than a formal assessment.
On my first day, everything was different: Riopele was in full operation, full of life and people. I was warmly welcomed and quickly realized I was joining a company with a rich history, where professionalism, collaboration, and team spirit are truly valued.
What skills or lessons have you learned here that you’ll carry with you for life?
Riopele has been, and continues to be, a real school. Over the years, I’ve witnessed profound changes — from the days of typewriters and faxes to the digital age. I learned to adapt, to evolve with change, and to value communication, humility, and teamwork.
When I was invited to take on a new project — a pioneering initiative at Riopele in the 90s — bold and modern for the time, I was assigned my first two markets: Italy and Belgium.
Italy, which I still work with today, was a true turning point in my career. It was a huge challenge, as it was one of the largest European markets at the time, and it brought great responsibility: I had to put into practice everything I’d been taught. I felt they believed in me. That was when I joined Niki Bosch’s team, marking the beginning of my journey in the commercial area at Riopele.
I was also the first commercial assistant to be invited to join the team at the Milan trade fair, back when everything was still done manually and in person. Later, I was involved in the implementation of SAP as a Key User — a demanding and transformative process that required months of dedication alongside my daily tasks, all with the goal of ensuring a smooth transition for our clientes.
I carry with me valuable lessons: resilience, team spirit, adaptability, and the pride of having been part of moments that have shaped Riopele’s history.
How would you describe the day-to-day support among colleagues?
Over these years at Riopele, I’ve always felt unconditional support from every colleague I’ve had the privilege of working with. In every department, without exception, I’ve found professionalism, willingness, and a strong sense of mutual help.
My journey and professional achievements were only possible thanks to everyone’s contributions. I’ve been lucky to cross paths with exceptional people — some of whom are no longer with the company but have left a mark and are fondly remembered. I’d like to take this opportunity to publicly say a heartfelt “thank you.” I know those reading this will recognize themselves in these words — the ones from yesterday and the ones from today.
Riopele is, without a doubt, a grand, innovative company, respected internationally. But its greatest asset is its people. It’s the employees who, every day, make Riopele what it is. I have deep admiration and gratitude for all those who have taught me, supported me, and helped me grow. They have been — and continue to be — essential in my journey.
If you had to describe Riopele in one word, what would it be?
That’s definitely a tough question. But if I had to choose one word, I’d say Versatility.
Riopele was founded shortly after the First World War, endured the Second World War, lived through the pre- and post-25 de Abril (the portuguese revolution), faced financial and economic crises, global competition, joining the European Union, the pandemic, and now a world marked by uncertainty. And still, it remains strong — in fact, more present and relevant than ever. Its ability to adapt, evolve, and reinvent itself is, to me, what best defines its essence.
