Antonio Saraiva

António Saraiva is the President of the Portuguese Red Cross, Strategic Consultant, and a leading voice in Corporate Diplomacy, Business, and Economic Development. With more than four decades of experience, he has built an exceptional career at the intersection of business, public policy, diplomacy, and leadership.

A true self-made leader, António Saraiva began working at the age of 17 as a metalworker at Lisnave, Portugal’s leading ship-repair company. From these early beginnings, he steadily built a distinguished career, progressing from the factory floor to senior positions across Portugal’s business and institutional landscape.

He currently serves as President of Taguspark, Europe’s largest Science and Technology Park, and as Chairman of SPAL, one of Portugal’s most recognised ceramics companies. His leadership reflects a strong commitment to business development, innovation, economic growth, and strategic partnerships.

For 13 years, António Saraiva led CIP – Confederation of Portuguese Business, Portugal’s most influential business organisation. During this period, he played a significant role in representing the Portuguese business community and strengthening its engagement at national and international levels. He also served as Vice-President of BusinessEurope, representing the business community across 35 European countries.

Alongside his business and leadership roles, António Saraiva has established a strong academic presence. He is a respected academic and lecturer in Corporate Diplomacy and Economic Development and has served on the boards and strategic councils of leading Portuguese universities and institutions.

His contributions to business, leadership, diplomacy, and economic development have received significant recognition. He has been honoured with an Honorary Doctorate, the Italian Knight of Honour, the Commander of the Order of Prince Henry, and, most recently, the Grand Cross of the Order of Entrepreneurial Merit – Industrial Merit.

From the factory floor to the highest levels of business, diplomacy, and leadership, António Saraiva represents the power of experience, influence, and purpose. His journey reflects a lifelong commitment to leadership, economic development, institutional collaboration, and meaningful impact.