The Blue Economy is built on international collaboration. Beyond science and technology, it depends on professionals who connect businesses, research organisations, policymakers, and innovators across borders to create new opportunities for sustainable growth. Internationalisation plays a key role in strengthening partnerships, opening new markets, and accelerating innovation throughout the maritime sector.
In this edition of our interview series, we’re speaking with Gonçalo Nuno Freitas Santos, Internationalization Manager at Forum Oceano, the Portuguese Blue Economy Cluster. His work focuses on promoting international cooperation, supporting market access, and building strategic partnerships that strengthen the global presence of Portugal’s Blue Economy.
Most of the professionals featured in our interview series have a background in marine sciences. Gonçalo’s journey is different. With a degree in Sociology and experience in communication and public affairs, he shows that the Blue Economy needs much more than marine scientists. It also relies on professionals who can connect people, build partnerships, and turn ideas into international collaboration.
Meet Gonçalo Nuno Freitas Santos
Current Role: Internationalization Manager, Forum Oceano
Industry: Blue Economy, International Business Development, Cluster Management
Focus Areas: Internationalisation, market access, business development, international partnerships, Blue Economy cooperation
Organization: Forum Oceano – Portuguese Blue Economy Cluster
What inspired you to pursue this path?
Gonçalo’s journey into the Blue Economy was shaped by curiosity and opportunity.
With a degree in Sociology and a professional background in communication, public relations, and public affairs, he did not initially plan to work in the maritime sector. Everything changed when he joined Euromar, a company operating in the shipping industry.
«The more I learned, the more I liked it—and today, I would hardly work in any other field.»
As he discovered the challenges and opportunities within the Blue Economy, he became increasingly interested in its international dimension and its ability to bring people, industries, and ideas together.
«The international nature of the Blue Economy, the cross-cutting nature of its projects, and their real and potential impact are all fascinating—and, I believe, truly inspiring.»
A Day in the Life
No two days are exactly the same in Gonçalo’s role.
Working with international projects means that meetings, travel, document analysis, and relationship-building are all part of his daily routine.
His work includes preparing international business missions, identifying new partners, analysing target markets, organising incoming delegations, and participating in conferences and events around the world.
Behind every international meeting lies significant preparation, from market analysis and partner scouting to developing trusted relationships that support long-term collaboration.
«It’s hard to define what a typical day looks like—and that’s one of the most interesting parts of what I do.»
The Exciting and Challenging Aspects of the Job
For Gonçalo, the most rewarding aspect of his work is connecting with people.
Meeting innovators, supporting businesses, sharing knowledge, and exploring how traditional maritime sectors can become more competitive are among the experiences he enjoys most.
«Meeting inspiring people and trying to inspire others.»
Working across different countries and cultures also brings unique challenges.
Successful international cooperation depends not only on technical expertise but also on understanding cultural differences, adapting to unexpected situations, and building trust.
«Very often, it’s more important to listen than to speak, to understand rather than to insist or impose.»
He also highlights that travel, while rewarding, comes with its own challenges, from delayed flights to changing schedules and the need to adapt quickly to unforeseen circumstances.
«Without open, fluid communication—and without trust between parties—it’s impossible to develop international projects.»
Key Skills for Success
Gonçalo believes that professionals working in internationalisation need a balanced combination of technical expertise and interpersonal skills.
Technical Skills:
- Market analysis
- International business strategy
- Foreign trade regulations
- Project management
- Language skills
Soft Skills:
- Cross-cultural communication
- Adaptability
- Negotiation
- Relationship-building
- Active listening
He believes that understanding different perspectives and managing uncertainty are essential for building lasting partnerships and delivering successful international projects.
Work-Life Balance & Career Satisfaction
Gonçalo is generally satisfied with both his career and his work-life balance, although he believes there is still room for improvement, particularly in terms of flexibility.
Despite the demands of frequent travel and international collaboration, he enjoys working in a sector that combines innovation, sustainability, and global impact.
Future Outlook: Where is the Industry Heading?
Looking ahead, Gonçalo believes technology will continue transforming the way international cooperation takes place.
Remote communication, virtual meetings, and improved access to strategic information will make collaboration easier than ever.
At the same time, he expects geopolitical changes to play an increasingly important role in shaping international projects.
«Shifts in priorities and strategic directions are inevitable, and staying informed about them will be crucial for anyone working in this field.»
While technology will continue to evolve, he believes the human dimension will remain at the heart of every successful internationalisation strategy.
Career Advice for Aspiring Professionals
If he could give one piece of advice to young professionals, Gonçalo would encourage them to stay curious and never stop learning.
«Don’t rush. Listen—listen a lot. Learn—learn as much as you can. Carefully analyze every opportunity.»
He also encourages people not to limit themselves to a single sector and to remain open to new experiences.
«Stay alert. Be curious. Ask questions.»
Follow Gonçalo’s Work
You can follow Gonçalo’s work through his LinkedIn profile, where he shares insights on international cooperation, the Blue Economy, and innovation.
Stay tuned for more inspiring interviews with professionals shaping the future of the Blue Economy!
📢 Know someone with an exciting career in marine sciences or the Blue Economy? Let us know—we’d love to feature them!