“The story we tell” | Católica Corporate Governance 2024 meeting reflects on trends and UCP's mission

The Universidade Católica Portuguesa came together once again for its annual Católica Corporate Governance meeting. Under the theme ‘The story we tell: Católica and the challenges of a transformational identity’, the 2024 event was held at the Vila Galé Alentejo Vineyards on 18 and 19 September.

With the aim of reflecting on transformational projects and realities and aligning the strategy for the future, the meeting featured several speakers, team building moments and workshops.

The meeting began with a speech by the Rector of UCP, Isabel Capeloa Gil, who set the tone for reflection on the current year. This was followed by a presentation by the Academic and Scientific Integrity Policy working group on ‘The use of AI: ethical principles and guidelines’.

The morning of the first day ended with two guest speakers. The Rector of the University of Lyon, Grégory Woimbée, spoke about innovation and identity. Soledade Duarte, Managing Director, Invesco Transearch, presented the skills profile for the next decade and new market trends.

In the afternoon, the team building activity divided the participants into teams that carried out various tests on the estate. In an atmosphere of relaxation and good humour, the tests challenged the creativity, cooperation and physical dexterity of all the participants. The day ended with a wine tasting and a dinner with a speech by Vasco de Mello, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the José de Mello Group. ‘What does society expect from a Catholic University? Participants also had the chance to listen to Cante Alentejano, an intangible heritage of humanity, by the ‘Santa Vitória Women's Choir Group’

The second day began with a conversation to structure insights for the strategic development plan for the next four years.  This was followed by a workshop on diversity and implicit prejudice, and the day ended with presentations on Branding and Reputation.