Ackermann, one of the leading international consultancies specialized in Executive Search, Leadership Advisory and Development, has announced its entry into the portuguese market as part of its international expansion strategy. The portuguese operation will be led by Joana Proença de Carvalho, who takes on the role of Partner Country Manager for Ackermann Portugal.
Joana Proença de Carvalho brings over 25 years of industry experience, having worked with multinational companies such as Accenture, Heidrick & Struggles, and Signium. She Had a leading role in establishing the Leadership Services practice in Portugal and across markets such as Southern Europe and Latin America. Her career extends across both Portugal and Brazil, where she led transformation projects for organizations of various sizes and industries. Holding a degree in Management from ISCTE, Joana possesses a deep understanding of global market dynamics and a strategic, solution-oriented approach, positioning her to spearhead Ackermann’s growth in Portugal.

“It is a great privilege to lead Ackermann’s expansion into Portugal,” said Joana Proença de Carvalho. She added, “Especially at a time of significant market transformation, with an increasing demand for more humanized leadership and professionals with strategic vision and critical thinking to navigate the era of artificial intelligence and sustainability. In Portugal, our goal is to identify and develop top talent, supporting organizations as they face the complexities of an ever-changing market,” she concluded.
The entry of the spanish-origin consultancy into the Portuguese market underscores its commitment to becoming a global reference in Executive Search and Strategic Consulting. By strengthening trusted client partnerships, Ackermann reinforces its presence in Portugal as a key element of its long-term growth strategy. This commitment includes ongoing investment in building a team of exceptional professionals with both national and international credentials, able to drive organizational transformation and development.
“We have full confidence in Joana Proença de Carvalho’s leadership in Portugal. Her deep industry knowledge, along with extensive international experience, strategically positions her to lead Ackermann’s growth in the country,” said Jorge Loeches, Managing Partner for Iberia at Ackermann. He added, “This move highlights Ackermann’s ability to combine a vast global network with an in-depth understanding of local market nuances.”
As Portugal establishes itself as a strategic hub in Europe, Ackermann is well-positioned to meet the growing demand for leadership development, empowering organizations to drive transformative changes essential for success in today’s landscape.