HR Excellence Spotlight: Cabo Verde's Best

HR Excellence Spotlight is our flagship digital publication, highlighting the top 25 HR professionals in every African country.

Celebrating leaders who are driving change

This recognition celebrates leaders who are driving change, setting standards, and inspiring the next generation of HR talent.

Each edition of HR Excellence Spotlight not only celebrates excellence but also fosters dialogue and knowledge sharing among HR leaders through the HR Excellence mindset video series, making it a must-read for those passionate about HR's evolving role in Africa. Read on to explore the leadership mindsets that sets the best HR leaders apart.

Recognizing Capo Verde's Best:

Sofia S.

Human Resources Manager, Marriott Hotels

A transformative HR leader, Sofia S. drives innovation and excellence at Marriott Hotels. With a strong academic foundation in Human Resource Management from Universidade Europeia and extensive expertise in talent development, she elevates organizational culture and performance.

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Samira Rocha

Senior HR Technician Central Bank of Cape Verde

Samira Rocha is an accomplished Human Resources Specialist at Banco Central de Cabo Verde with over six years of experience, supported by a strong foundation in HR strategy, talent management, and organizational development. She has held key roles at RA Pessoas e Organizações and NOVO BANCO, enhancing her expertise in HR practices. With a postgraduate degree in Human Resources and Knowledge Management from Universidade Jean Piaget de Cabo Verde and specialized ISO 9001 certification, Samira is dedicated to fostering organizational excellence and effective HR solutions in the banking sector. 

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Indira Silva Leite

HR Manager, Grupo Enacol

Indira Silva Leite is a powerhouse in HR leadership with 14 years of impactful, global experience. At Grupo Enacol, she spearheads transformative talent initiatives that elevate the company as a premier employer and a competitive market leader. Her career, spanning key roles in Angola, South Africa, Portugal, and Cape Verde, includes steering HR for one of the country’s largest resort chains and delivering consulting excellence in energy and banking sectors. With a strong focus on human-centered leadership, Indira drives cultural transformation, champions diversity, and empowers employees to thrive, ensuring both individual and organizational success.

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Nadia Almada

Head Human Resources at Ecobank Cape Verde

With over 9 years of exceptional HR leadership, Nadia Almada is a dynamic force in human capital management. She spearheaded strategic initiatives at Ecobank that elevated employee engagement and solidified a culture of innovation and growth. Nadia’s expertise spans Cape Verde Employment Law, Recruitment, Performance Management, and HR policy development. Her passion for people development and fostering a growth mindset has empowered teams to reach their full potential. Previously, she excelled as an HR Officer at Unitel T+ and in administrative roles at RHMED Consultores.

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Lisandra Ramos

HR Manager Hilton Cabo Verde Sal

Lisandra Ramos is an exceptional HR Manager at Hilton Cabo Verde Sal, renowned for her ability to inspire and lead high-performing teams. With a strategic vision and a meticulous approach to managing HR operations and budgets, she transforms theory into practice, delivering impactful training and development programs that ignite professional and personal growth. A champion for authenticity and innovation, Lisandra is dedicated to cultivating a dynamic workplace culture where continuous development is celebrated. Her unwavering commitment to enhancing human talent empowers employees to thrive, making her an invaluable asset in driving organizational success.

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Leila Palavra Martins

Human Resources Director at ASA (Airports and Air Security)

With nearly 12 years of extensive experience in Human Resources Management and Human Capital development, Leila Palavra Martins serves as the Human Resources Director at ASA, where she passionately empowers individuals and teams. Her expertise spans HR management, recruitment, and labor legislation in Cape Verde, underpinned by a degree in Work and Organizational Psychology from the University of Coimbra. Leila is dedicated to fostering a culture of continuous growth and transformation, believing that people are the key to organizational success. A proud Cape Verdean and Portuguese, she embraces challenges, enjoys the ocean, and thrives on meaningful conversations over coffee, making her a vibrant leader in her field. 

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Elsa Rocha Fernandes

Head HR Department Civil Aviation Authority, Cabo Verde

Elsa Rocha Fernandes is a dynamic leader with over 11 years of experience as the Head of HR at the Civil Aviation Authority, Cabo Verde. Renowned for her strategic vision, she has successfully transformed HR practices across diverse sectors, including statistics, tourism, health, and aviation. Elsa is passionate about driving organizational excellence and has a proven track record in designing innovative HR strategies that enhance employee engagement and operational efficiency. Her exceptional interpersonal skills and ability to communicate effectively empower her to build strong, collaborative teams. With a relentless commitment to fostering a positive workplace culture, Elsa is a true catalyst for growth and a trusted advisor in navigating the complexities of human capital management.

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Adilson Monteiro

HR Manager Enapor, S.A.

Adilson Monteiro is a seasoned HR Manager at Enapor, S.A., with 18 years of extensive experience in human resources and commercial management. His career has been marked by a commitment to driving strategic initiatives that yield significant operational and financial results. Adilson excels in leading transformative projects that enhance organizational performance and employee engagement. His prior role as Director of Human Resources for a major company in Cabo Verde demonstrates his ability to navigate complex HR challenges with professionalism and insight. Passionate about fostering talent and building strong teams, Adilson is dedicated to creating a thriving workplace environment where both employees and the organization can excel.

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Jacira Duarte e Duarte

Head Human Resources Melia Dunas Beach Resort

Jacira Duarte e Duarte is an accomplished HR Leader at Melia Dunas Beach Resort, where she has dedicated over nine years to enhancing employee engagement and optimizing HR processes. Currently serving as Chefe de Recursos Humanos since February 2023, Jacira plays a pivotal role in shaping a positive workplace culture that fosters growth and collaboration. With a Master’s degree in Human Resources Management from Universidade de Santiago, her expertise lies in aligning HR strategies with organizational goals to drive performance and innovation. Passionate about developing talent and improving workforce dynamics, Jacira is committed to creating an environment where every team member thrives.

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Cláudia Vieira

Head Human Resources Rádio Televisão Cabo-Verdiana, S.A.

Cláudia Vieira is a dynamic HR leader with a passion for managing people and making a positive impact in their lives. As the Head of Human Resources at Rádio Televisão Cabo-Verdiana since October 2017, she has leveraged her extensive experience in both public and private sectors to drive HR excellence. Cláudia is also the founder of the Kombersu RH event, which aims to foster knowledge sharing and networking within the HR community. With two master’s degrees—one in Accounting from ISCTE, Lisbon, and another in Strategic HR Management from Universidad Iberoamericana. She is committed to continuous professional development. Cláudia has been recognized for her academic achievements, including being the top student in her Public Administration program in Lisbon. Her dedication, creativity, and rigorous approach to achieving goals make her a standout professional in the HR field.

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Jorge Mascarenhas

Master Coach and Director Human Resources SITA

Jorge Mascarenhas is an accomplished Master Coach and the Director of Human Resources at SITA, Sociedade Industrial de Tintas, SA, a position he has held since March 2008. He is certified as an Eriksonian Coach and a Professional & Self Coach by the Instituto Brasileiro de Coaching (IBC). With a Master’s degree in Business Management from ISCTE-IUL Lisbon and a Bachelor's degree in Human Resource Management from ULHT - Universidade Lusófona, Jorge has a strong academic foundation that complements his extensive professional experience. He has been a lecturer at the Instituto Superior de Ciências Económicas e Empresariais (ISCEE) since 2008, teaching subjects related to Human Resource Management. Additionally, he served as President of the ACG-RH (Associação Caboverdiana dos Gestores e Técnicos de RH) from December 2011 to June 2017, significantly impacting the HR community in Cabo Verde. Jorge’s expertise in leadership, emotional intelligence, and resilience positions him as a key driver of organizational success and talent development in the industry. 

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Ricardina Andrade

Human Resources Director Organizational Transformation Unitel T+

Ricardina Andrade is a dynamic Mentor and Trainer with a rich portfolio in organizational transformation and human resources. Currently serving as the Director of Organizational Transformation and Operations at Unitel T+, she brings a wealth of experience in driving change and fostering high-performance leadership. Affiliated with Nova SBE VOICE Leadership, Ricardina has successfully implemented numerous programs focused on restructuring and process mapping for medium and large enterprises, showcasing her expertise in talent management, recruitment, and organizational diagnostics. Her academic credentials include a Master's in Global Management from the Instituto Superior de Ciências do Trabalho e da Empresa and studies in Organizational Psychology at the Universidade de Coimbra. With a strong commitment to sustainability and a passion for empowering others, Ricardina is a key figure in shaping the future of HR in Cabo Verde, making lasting impacts on organizations and their people. 

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Alfredo Pina

Coordinator of the Human Resources Management and Development Office Commercial Bank of the Atlantic

Alfredo Pina serves as the Coordinator of the Human Resources Management and Development Office at Commercial Bank of the Atlantic, where he plays a pivotal role in shaping HR strategies that drive organizational success. With a robust background in human resources, Alfredo has seamlessly transitioned through key positions within the bank, including HR Technician and Chief of the Division of HR Management, Development, and Planning. His academic credentials, featuring a degree in Public Administration and Management from the esteemed Universidade Técnica de Lisboa, empower him to implement innovative HR practices that enhance employee engagement and productivity. Known for his strategic vision and commitment to nurturing talent, Alfredo is dedicated to creating a vibrant workplace culture in Cabo Verde, where individuals are empowered to thrive and contribute to the bank’s overarching goals. His passion for human resources and organizational development positions him as a dynamic leader in the industry. 

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Stephen Willi

Human Resources Director Norwegian Cruise Line

Stephen Willi is the Human Resources Director at Norwegian Cruise Line, where he plays a pivotal role in cultivating a vibrant and efficient workplace culture. With extensive experience in human resources and training, Stephen is dedicated to driving departmental excellence and productivity within a progressive organization. His approachable demeanor, coupled with exceptional communication skills, allows him to engage confidently with employees at all levels, fostering trust and collaboration across the board. Stephen's expertise includes MLC2006 implementation, collective bargaining negotiations, and performance management, alongside a strong focus on conflict resolution and grievance mediation. He is passionate about nurturing talent through strategic succession planning and workforce development, ensuring that every team member feels valued and empowered. 

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Romina Lopes

Administrative Manager for HR Cabo Verde Airports

Romina Helena Lopes is an accomplished Administrative Human Resources Manager with a degree in Business Management from the esteemed Universidade de Caxias do Sul. She has built a robust career by transforming workplace cultures and driving organizational success through innovative HR strategies. Romina excels in enhancing employee engagement and fostering inclusive environments, demonstrating her passion for talent development and diversity. With a proven track record of implementing best practices that boost productivity and create positive workplace atmospheres, she is a vital asset to any organization. Her engaging communication style and ability to connect with diverse audiences further establish her as a leading figure in human resource management, ready to inspire and influence the future of HR in Cabo Verde. 

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Benilson Ramos

C&B and HRBP Coordinator Cavibel & Ceris

Benilson Ramos is a highly accomplished Human Resources professional, currently excelling as the Compensation & Benefits Coordinator and HR Business Partner at CAVIBEL (Equatorial Coca-Cola Bottling Company). With a robust track record in optimizing HR processes and a deep understanding of compensation strategies, he leverages his analytical expertise to drive impactful decision-making and enhance organizational performance. Benilson is not just committed to HR excellence; he embodies a passion for cultivating a thriving workplace culture that empowers employees and fosters innovation. His relentless pursuit of knowledge in business management and human resources allows him to develop and implement cutting-edge strategies that align with company goals. Known for his exceptional ability to inspire and engage teams, Benilson is dedicated to unlocking the full potential of talent within the organization, making him an invaluable leader and strategic partner in navigating today’s dynamic business environment. 

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Carlos Antônio Soares da Cruz

Human Resources Director Cabo Verde Telecom SA

Carlos Antônio Soares da Cruz is the Financial and Human Resources Director at Cabo Verde Telecom SA, where he brings extensive expertise in cost accounting, human resources, and financial strategy to lead the company's HR and financial operations. His academic background includes a Bachelor's in Business Organization and Management from ISCTE - University Institute of Lisbon and postgraduate studies in Taxation from ISCAL - Lisbon Accounting and Business School. With a strategic approach to financial and HR leadership, Carlos is committed to driving organizational efficiency and fostering a collaborative workplace culture at Cabo Verde Telecom. 

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Eunice Spencer

Human Resources Director Cabo Verde Airports

Eunice Spencer is an influential leader in Cape Verde’s aviation sector, currently serving as the Human Resources Director at Cabo Verde Airports. With a background that spans over three decades, Eunice brings invaluable expertise in human capital management, strategic leadership, and operations oversight. She previously directed Amilcar Cabral International Airport, where her transformative approach to security and efficiency set new benchmarks for the industry. Her career began in communication and public relations at ASA - Airports and Air Security, where she developed a keen sense of stakeholder engagement. Eunice holds a Bachelor’s in Communication and Public Relations from ISCSP-ULisboa, equipping her with a unique blend of HR acumen and strategic communication skills that enable her to drive meaningful, organization-wide impact. 

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Tatiana Frazao

Human Resources Manager Medicentro

Tatiana Frazao is an accomplished Human Resources Manager at Medicentro, where she brings nearly eight years of experience from BMobile and prior roles in sales and project coordination. Known for her expertise in HR management, commercial strategy, and customer service, Tatiana excels in shaping workplace culture and fostering operational efficiency. Her academic excellence, highlighted by a top-ranking thesis on Kanban’s impact during COVID-19, underlines her analytical and adaptive mindset, making her a proactive leader committed to organizational growth and resilience. 

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 Katlene Évora Melício Santos

Head of Human Resources Management and Development Electra

Katlene Évora Melício Santos is a dynamic leader serving as the Head of Human Resources Management and Development at Electra, Cape Verde’s premier energy provider. With extensive experience in driving HR excellence, she specializes in shaping talent development strategies, fostering a high-performance culture, and aligning HR initiatives with organizational goals. Since April 2023, Katlene has been instrumental in leading transformative HR and training programs, focusing on optimizing workforce potential and supporting Electra’s growth. Her forward-thinking leadership in human resources is creating lasting impact, empowering teams, and reinforcing the company’s commitment to innovation and operational excellence.

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Danila Ferreira

HR & Public Affairs Communications & Sustainability Director at Equatorial Coca-Cola Bottling Company Cabo Verde - Cavibel & Ceris

Danila Ferreira is a transformative leader at Equatorial Coca-Cola Bottling Company Cabo Verde (CAVIBEL & CERIS), serving as the HR & Public Affairs Communications and Sustainability Director. With a remarkable track record, she expertly designs and implements innovative HR strategies that align with the company's ambitious goals while enhancing its community reputation. Danila’s extensive experience in project management and public relations empowers her to drive meaningful change, fostering a culture of resilience, collaboration, and innovation. Her unwavering commitment to sustainability and social responsibility ensures that CAVIBEL & CERIS thrives as a business while positively impacting society. Through her motivational leadership style, Danila inspires her team to exceed expectations, reshaping the future of work in Cabo Verde and demonstrating that dedicated leadership can create a lasting legacy of excellence and social impact. 

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Alector Timas

HR Director Sankofa Editora

Alector Timas is an innovative leader and the dynamic CEO of DIGI, where he brings a wealth of experience in human resources and organizational management. With a background that includes significant roles such as Director of HR at Sankofa Editora and Administrator of HR at NhaBex - Smart Queue, Alector has demonstrated his expertise in fostering talent and enhancing workplace culture. His leadership style is characterized by creativity and effective communication, enabling him to inspire and engage teams to achieve their best. Alector’s commitment to strategic development and his knack for problem-solving position DIGI for remarkable growth and success in the digital landscape, reflecting his dedication to excellence and forward-thinking vision. 

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Jose Carvalho

Human Resources Director Frescomar - Grupo Ubago

Jose Carvalho is a seasoned Human Resources Director at Frescomar, part of the Ubago Group, with over a decade of experience in developing and managing multidisciplinary teams. Fluent in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, he specializes in recruitment, selection, and employee development, effectively bridging diverse cultures within organizations. His extensive background includes key leadership roles, such as Executive Director of Human Resources at Capital Foods Limited and Regional Human Resources Director at Nestlé, where he honed his skills in project management, business development, and team engagement. Jose's expertise in preparing teams for success, coupled with his training in Business Coaching, empowers him to create dynamic workplace environments that foster collaboration and innovation. His commitment to excellence and strategic vision significantly contributes to Frescomar's success in navigating the competitive landscape of the food industry. 

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Euridice Mauricio

Director of Human Resources VIVO Energy Cabo Verde

Euridice Mauricio is a highly accomplished Human Resources Director at VIVO Energy Cabo Verde, boasting nearly 20 years of transformative leadership in human resource management within the energy sector. Her career, which began at Shell Cabo Verde, has been marked by an unwavering commitment to excellence, where she has mastered innovative strategies in talent management, compensation and benefits, and competency development. As a dynamic board member, Euridice not only shapes the HR landscape but also plays a crucial role in steering the company's strategic direction. Her visionary approach has led to the implementation of cutting-edge HR practices that drive employee engagement and performance to new heights. With extensive experience in governmental roles, Euridice brings a unique perspective on navigating the complexities of the business environment. Her exceptional leadership and strategic foresight make her an invaluable asset to VIVO Energy, positioning the company as a leader in workforce development and organizational excellence. 

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Tienne Cardoso

Administrative Director and Human Resources at Enapor SA

Tienne Cardoso is an accomplished Administrative and Human Resources Director at ENAPOR, SA, boasting over 30 years of experience in human resource management and public service in Cabo Verde. Since joining ENAPOR in 1992, he has excelled in various leadership roles, including Director of the Dr. Baptista de Sousa Hospital, where he significantly improved operational efficiency and employee engagement. Tienne’s innovative HR strategies have been crucial in aligning workforce capabilities with organizational goals, making him a transformative leader. Additionally, his contributions as a municipal councilor and educator reflect his commitment to community development, solidifying his reputation as a key player in shaping Cabo Verde’s future. 

 

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What Sets Great HR Leaders Apart?

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