Ana Casaca, who holds a degree in Microbiology from Católica’s Escola Superior de Biotecnologia, has been appointed President of the Portuguese Trade & Investment Agency (AICEP). Following approval by the Council of Ministers and a favorable assessment from CReSAP, the new head of Portugal’s leading public agency for foreign investment attraction and business internationalization succeeds Madalena Oliveira e Silva.
Ana Casaca’s career clearly mirrors the scope and strength of the pathways fostered by education at Católica. After completing her undergraduate studies, she moved to San Francisco (USA) supported by Fulbright and AICEP fellowships, embarking on a trajectory of over two decades marked by technology transfer, scientific research, and strategic vision.
Later, she consolidated her career within the corporate sector across groups such as José de Mello, Worten, and Sonae, while leading the innovation department at Galp since 2021, focusing on creating new business models, tech ecosystems, and startup collaboration.
Now taking the helm of an organization operating across roughly 50 global markets, Ana Casaca’s journey reinforces the importance of continuing to empower transformative talent. Success stories like hers stem from an enduring commitment to merit, excellence, and opportunity, enabled by the closeness and support of the Católica community, ensuring every new generation can turn their potential into leadership with real impact at home and abroad.
