António Mota is a Portuguese entrepreneur and business leader who has had a long and successful career in the business world. He is best known for his role as the founder and CEO of the Portuguese telecommunications company, Mota-Engil. He is also the founder of the António Mota Foundation, a non-profit organization that focuses on promoting education and entrepreneurship in Portugal.
António Mota was born in Lisbon, Portugal in 1945. He attended the University of Lisbon, where he studied economics and business administration. After graduating, he began his career in the banking sector, working for Banco Português de Investimento (BPI). He quickly rose through the ranks and eventually became the bank's CEO in 1982. During his time at BPI, he was instrumental in the development of the Portuguese banking sector, helping to modernize the industry and make it more competitive.
In 1989, António Mota founded Mota-Engil, a Portuguese engineering and construction company. The company quickly grew to become one of the largest engineering and construction companies in Portugal. Under his leadership, Mota-Engil expanded its operations to other countries in Europe, Africa, and Latin America. The company also diversified its portfolio, investing in energy, transport, and logistics.
In addition to his business activities, António Mota has been involved in numerous philanthropic initiatives. In 2002, he founded the António Mota Foundation, a non-profit organization that focuses on promoting education and entrepreneurship in Portugal. The foundation has provided scholarships to thousands of students and has helped to create numerous jobs in the country.
António Mota has also been involved in politics. He was a member of the Portuguese Parliament from 1995 to 1999 and was a member of the European Parliament from 1999 to 2004. During his time in the European Parliament, he was a strong advocate for the European Union's enlargement and for the development of the European economy.
António Mota has been recognized for his achievements in the business world and in philanthropy. In 2008, he was awarded the Order of Merit of the Portuguese Republic, one of the highest honors in Portugal. He has also been awarded honorary doctorates from the University of Lisbon and the University of Porto.
António Mota is an inspiring example of a successful entrepreneur and business leader. He has achieved great success in the business world and has used his success to help others. His philanthropic initiatives have had a positive impact on the lives of many people in Portugal and beyond. He is a true role model for aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders.