Pedro Soares Franco

Head of Business Development

Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal

About

Dynamic and results-oriented executive with extensive experience leading business development, commercial strategy, operations, and organisational growth across multiple industries. Proven track record of driving revenue growth, improving profitability, and expanding market presence for both established organisations and high-growth businesses. Recognised for combining strategic vision with hands-on leadership, delivering sustainable business performance through operational excellence, customer-focused solutions, and strong commercial execution. Skilled at building high-performing teams, leading complex projects, negotiating strategic partnerships, and managing cross-functional initiatives that create long-term value. Committed to continuous improvement, innovation, and delivering measurable business results while maintaining the highest standards of quality and operational efficiency. Core Competencies: Business Development & Strategic Growth Commercial Strategy Operations Management P&L Management Project & Programme Management Marketing & Brand Development Cost Control & Profitability Improvement Procurement & Supply Chain Management Contract Negotiation & Strategic Partnerships Cross-functional Leadership Organisational Transformation Stakeholder & Client Relationship Management

Experience

  • Head of Business Development | MBA at CPU Consultores
    Jan 2024 - Present · 2 yrs 7 mos

    Delivering strategic growth across Architecture, Real Estate Valuations, Project Management & Sustainable Development

  • Board Member at CPU YUVO S.A.
    Apr 2024 - Present · 2 yrs 4 mos

    Executive Board Member

  • General Manager | MBA at BLOOM Marinha
    Sep 2022 - Dec 2023 · 1 yr 4 mos

  • Grupo Almedina (7 yrs 1 mo)
    • Retail & Sales Director
      Nov 2018 - Jul 2022 · 3 yrs 9 mos

      Publishing group with 4 publishing brands, 11 stores and annual sales of 11M€. Main responsabilities are: • Sales • Own Retail and store operations (both physical and e-commerce) • Marketing • Logistics • Direct report to Board.

    • Retail Director
      Jul 2015 - Nov 2018 · 3 yrs 5 mos

      Group with 4 companies, including: 4 publishing brands, 11 stores and annual sales of 11M€. Main responsabilities are: • Responsible for all operations, 11 stores (>70 workers). • Responsible for store operations and e-commerce. • Supervision of all supply chain, including procurement. • Negotiation of commercial contracts/agreements with suppliers and Shopping Centres. • Responsible for new business development and opportunities. • Responsible for retail strategy and company’s performance analysis, including P&L and KPI’s. • Full participation in marketing plannification. • Annual budget and objectives settings. • Direct report to board. • Member of Technical Comission at APEL (Portuguese Publishing Association) for monitoring Portuguese Book Price Law. • Member of Task Force at APEL (Portuguese Publishing Association) for negotiation with unions of the sector's Collective Agreement.

  • COO at Grupo Starfoods
    May 2012 - Jul 2015 · 3 yrs 3 mos

    Starfoods is the umbrella brand for the following fast food brands: Companhia, Loja das Sopas, Basilico and Selfish. Annual turnover 20M€. Main responsabilities: Operations supervision (4 diferent brands, 60 stores, >500 workers); Suply Chain and procurement; New concepts development; Product innovation; Performance analisys; Direct report to CEO and Board;