ABOUT ESTORIL LIVING
Estoril Living is a private Portuguese Hotel Operation Company owned by Luiz Godinho Lopes and Pedro Mendes Leal, who have worked in the property and hospitality markets for decades. Estoril Living manages a growing portfolio of a diverse range of hotels, exclusive experiences, and premium residences.
Imagine a destination where time stands still, where the deep blue of the Atlantic merges with the timeless elegance of grand hotels and palaces. For decades, Estoril was the secret refuge of Europe’s elite—a paradise for royalty, artists, and visionaries, where glamour thrived in the grand halls of the Casino, seaside dinners, and discreet encounters of historical figures.
Today, this legacy is reborn with Estoril Living—a brand that goes beyond hospitality, restoring the splendor of the Portuguese Riviera, through a curated collection of hotels, exclusive experiences, and premium residences, Estoril Living invites you to embrace authenticity, where every detail reflects sophistication and excellence.
MISSION
Estoril Living aims to consolidate its position and lead the luxury boutique hospitality and management under international brands, creating a sustainable competitive advantage by expanding our capacity and developing distinctive competences.
Valverde Group Mission
To offer unique experiences of luxury hospitality, where history, elegance and tranquillity come together harmoniously — with attention to detail and comfort. We honour local heritage, regional flavours and sustainability, providing our guests with an intimate space to slow down, feel at home and connect with the true essence of the place.
International Brands Mission
To develop and operate premium and innovative hotel projects in partnership with top investors, consultants and industry experts — generating sustainable value and raising the standard of hospitality in destinations and locations with untapped potential.
To offer unique experiences of luxury hospitality, where history, elegance and tranquillity come together harmoniously — with attention to detail and comfort. We honour local heritage, regional flavours and sustainability, providing our guests with an intimate space to slow down, feel at home and connect with the true essence of the place.
To develop and operate premium and innovative hotel projects in partnership with top investors, consultants and industry experts — generating sustainable value and raising the standard of hospitality in destinations and locations with untapped potential.
VALUES
Quiet Luxury: Creating exclusive environments and experiences, where every detail conveys sophistication and personalised service reflects true exclusivity.
Innovation: We constantly seek new tools, methods and approaches to increase efficiency, optimise processes and enhance service quality.
Valuing people: We put people at the centre of everything we do, valuing talent, career paths and lasting relationships.
Integrity and transparency: We act with integrity and transparency in all decisions and relationships, building trust and credibility.
Nature and sustainability: We respect nature and promote sustainability, generating value for guests, communities and the environment.
Genuineness: We act with transparency and authenticity, cultivating genuine relationships with guests, partners and employees.
Innovation: We constantly seek new tools, methods and approaches to increase efficiency, optimise processes and enhance service quality.
Valuing people: We put people at the centre of everything we do, valuing talent, career paths and lasting relationships.
Integrity and transparency: We act with integrity and transparency in all decisions and relationships, building trust and credibility.
Nature and sustainability: We respect nature and promote sustainability, generating value for guests, communities and the environment.
Genuineness: We act with transparency and authenticity, cultivating genuine relationships with guests, partners and employees.
MISSION
Estoril Living aims to consolidate its position and lead the luxury boutique hospitality and management under international brands, creating a sustainable competitive advantage by expanding our capacity and developing distinctive competences.
Valverde Group Mission
To offer unique experiences of luxury hospitality, where history, elegance and tranquillity come together harmoniously — with attention to detail and comfort. We honour local heritage, regional flavours and sustainability, providing our guests with an intimate space to slow down, feel at home and connect with the true essence of the place.
International Brands Mission
To develop and operate premium and innovative hotel projects in partnership with top investors, consultants and industry experts — generating sustainable value and raising the standard of hospitality in destinations and locations with untapped potential.
To offer unique experiences of luxury hospitality, where history, elegance and tranquillity come together harmoniously — with attention to detail and comfort. We honour local heritage, regional flavours and sustainability, providing our guests with an intimate space to slow down, feel at home and connect with the true essence of the place.
To develop and operate premium and innovative hotel projects in partnership with top investors, consultants and industry experts — generating sustainable value and raising the standard of hospitality in destinations and locations with untapped potential.
VALUES
Quiet Luxury: Creating exclusive environments and experiences, where every detail conveys sophistication and personalised service reflects true exclusivity.
Innovation: We constantly seek new tools, methods and approaches to increase efficiency, optimise processes and enhance service quality.
Valuing people: We put people at the centre of everything we do, valuing talent, career paths and lasting relationships.
Integrity and transparency: We act with integrity and transparency in all decisions and relationships, building trust and credibility.
Nature and sustainability: We respect nature and promote sustainability, generating value for guests, communities and the environment.
Genuineness: We act with transparency and authenticity, cultivating genuine relationships with guests, partners and employees.
Innovation: We constantly seek new tools, methods and approaches to increase efficiency, optimise processes and enhance service quality.
Valuing people: We put people at the centre of everything we do, valuing talent, career paths and lasting relationships.
Integrity and transparency: We act with integrity and transparency in all decisions and relationships, building trust and credibility.
Nature and sustainability: We respect nature and promote sustainability, generating value for guests, communities and the environment.
Genuineness: We act with transparency and authenticity, cultivating genuine relationships with guests, partners and employees.
THE ESTORIL LIVING TEAM
LUIZ GODINHO LOPES
Luiz Godinho Lopes is a visionary leader in real estate and construction, with over 30 years of experience shaping Portugal’s most iconic infrastructure and hospitality projects. A Civil Engineering graduate from Instituto Superior Técnico, he founded Soconstroi in 1986, which became a top player in the industry. His expertise spans large-scale developments, including Lisbon’s metro expansions, Oriente train station, and the Vasco da Gama Tower. Post-1999, he led the development of luxury residences and hospitality ventures like Estoril Sol Residences, InterContinental Porto, and multiple Holiday Inn Express hotels. His legacy is defined by transformative projects and strategic partnerships.
PEDRO MENDES LEAL
Pedro Mendes Leal is a distinguished businessman with a diverse career spanning construction, real estate, and hospitality. As the majority shareholder of A. Silva & Silva Group since 2007, he has overseen the development of 3,000+ housing units. Founder and former CEO of Empark, he built one of Europe’s largest car park management companies. In the hospitality sector, PML has a track record of creating luxury boutique hotels that have set new standards for excellence, he launched Bairro Alto Hotel, Lisbon’s first luxury boutique hotel, and the award-winning Valverde Hotel. His leadership continues to redefine Portugal’s luxury real estate and hospitality landscape.
MARION MENDES LEAL – Strategic “Partner”
Marion Mendes Leal is a financial analyst specializing in corporate finance, business strategy, and hospitality. As Business Analyst at Lealsea, she previously worked at BCG, Banco Finantia, and Valverde Living. She holds a Master’s in Management from HEC Lausanne and a Postgraduate Degree in Corporate Finance from Nova SBE. Marion’s multicultural background and broad industry experience have equipped her with a unique perspective on financial strategy. Her passion for excellence and ability to navigate both the financial and operational sides of business have solidified her reputation as a skilled financial analyst and strategic thinker.
PEDRO GODINHO LOPES – Strategic “Partner”
Pedro Godinho Lopes is an experienced Business Development Manager with extensive experience in hospitality. With a background in leading international brands like InterContinental Lisbon and InterContinental Cascais-Estoril, he has expertise in sales and marketing, revenue management, guest experience, and strategic growth. A graduate of Les Roches Marbella, he currently drives business expansion at Sostate, leveraging his industry expertise to enter new markets. Pedro is known for his teamwork skills, strong communication, and leadership qualities, which have allowed him to excel in fast-paced, competitive environments.
LUÍS PAIS – Head of Development
Luís Pais is an Asset and Project Manager with 30 years of experience in hotel development across Europe and Asia. His expertise covers financial planning, operations, mergers and acquisitions, focusing on maximizing business value. He is known for his ability to define and execute hotel concepts that meet the specific needs of each location and market. Luís serves as an Asset Manager and Hospitality Partner at Estoril Living, where he continues to expand the portfolio and optimizing project execution.
GRAZIELA DA ROCHA – Chief Operating Officer – Valverde Brand Direction
Graziela Vieira da Rocha has built an international career in luxury hospitality across Brazil and Europe. She began her professional journey at the iconic Belmond Copacabana Palace, where she developed a solid operational foundation. Over the years, she held senior leadership roles across Rooms, Food & Beverage, and Events. Her approach is defined by rigor, consistency and a strong focus on service excellence. Her career also includes experience as a global Luxury Quality Assurance Inspector, providing her with a broad international perspective. More recently, she led Bairro Alto Hotel through a phase of operational and strategic consolidation.
Today, as Chief Operating Officer of the Valverde Brand at Estoril Living, Graziela oversees the group’s operations, combining strategic vision with deep operational expertise and a people-driven leadership style.
HENRIQUE TIAGO DE CASTRO – Chief Operating Officer – International Brand Direction
Henrique Tiago de Castro is a hospitality innovator with over 15 years of global experience. Specialized in lifestyle and F&B-driven hotels, he has led operations for Accor, Ennismore, and IHG in markets like Lisbon, Edinburgh, and Cascais. Led the launch and management of iconic hotels such as Mama Shelter Lisbon and EVOLUTION Cascais-Estoril. A strategic leader fluent in five languages, he brings a disruptive approach to hotel management, driving high-performance teams and guest-centric experiences.
TOMÁS RICCIARDI – Chief Financial Officer
Tomás Ricciardi, CFO of Estoril Living, has over eight years of experience in Real Estate Private Equity and Asset Management. He has led major acquisitions, including an Iberian portfolio and one of Portugal’s largest agricultural investments. Holding degrees from IE Business School and Católica Lisbon, he brings a strategic financial vision to the group. As CFO, he oversees financial management, investment planning, and stakeholder relations, driving long-term growth.
JOÃO GAIÃO – Chief Commercial Officer
João Gaião, Chief Commercial Officer of Estoril Living, brings over 16 years of experience in the hospitality sector, with a strong focus on commercial strategy, business development, and brand positioning within the luxury segment. Throughout his career, he has distinguished himself through team leadership, the development of commercial strategies, and the expansion of international markets. At Estoril Living, he leads the group’s commercial strategy, contributing to strengthening the brand’s positioning, fostering synergies across the portfolio, and driving sustainable growth.
JOANA CORTE GARCIA – Head of People & Culture
Joana Corte Garcia is Head of People & Culture at Estoril Living, where she leads the group’s talent strategy, organizational culture, and employee experience. With a strong background in leading international companies, she brings extensive experience in talent development and organizational transformation. Throughout her career, she has been recognized for implementing initiatives that place people at the center of sustainable growth.
At Estoril Living, she plays a key role in shaping a strong company culture, fostering high-performing teams, and reinforcing a people-driven approach to hospitality.
MAGDA VARÃO – Revenue Management Director
Magda Varão is Revenue Management Director at Estoril Living, where she oversees the group’s multi-brand revenue strategy, driving performance, efficiency, and sustainable growth. With over 15 years of experience in Revenue Management, she brings a strong track record in optimizing commercial performance, leading high-performing teams, and implementing data-driven strategies across hospitality operations.
At Estoril Living, she plays a key role in enhancing revenue performance across the portfolio, supporting the group’s expansion and reinforcing a strategic, forward-thinking approach to hospitality. Her leadership reflects a commitment to analytical precision, operational excellence, and long-term value creation.
LUIZ GODINHO LOPES
Luiz Godinho Lopes is a visionary leader in real estate and construction, with over 30 years of experience shaping Portugal’s most iconic infrastructure and hospitality projects. A Civil Engineering graduate from Instituto Superior Técnico, he founded Soconstroi in 1986, which became a top player in the industry. His expertise spans large-scale developments, including Lisbon’s metro expansions, Oriente train station, and the Vasco da Gama Tower. Post-1999, he led the development of luxury residences and hospitality ventures like Estoril Sol Residences, InterContinental Porto, and multiple Holiday Inn Express hotels. His legacy is defined by transformative projects and strategic partnerships.
PEDRO MENDES LEAL
Pedro Mendes Leal is a distinguished businessman with a diverse career spanning construction, real estate, and hospitality. As the majority shareholder of A. Silva & Silva Group since 2007, he has overseen the development of 3,000+ housing units. Founder and former CEO of Empark, he built one of Europe’s largest car park management companies. In the hospitality sector, PML has a track record of creating luxury boutique hotels that have set new standards for excellence, he launched Bairro Alto Hotel, Lisbon’s first luxury boutique hotel, and the award-winning Valverde Hotel. His leadership continues to redefine Portugal’s luxury real estate and hospitality landscape.
MARION MENDES LEAL – Strategic “Partner”
Marion Mendes Leal is a financial analyst specializing in corporate finance, business strategy, and hospitality. As Business Analyst at Lealsea, she previously worked at BCG, Banco Finantia, and Valverde Living. She holds a Master’s in Management from HEC Lausanne and a Postgraduate Degree in Corporate Finance from Nova SBE. Marion’s multicultural background and broad industry experience have equipped her with a unique perspective on financial strategy. Her passion for excellence and ability to navigate both the financial and operational sides of business have solidified her reputation as a skilled financial analyst and strategic thinker.
PEDRO GODINHO LOPES – Strategic “Partner”
Pedro Godinho Lopes is an experienced Business Development Manager with extensive experience in hospitality. With a background in leading international brands like InterContinental Lisbon and InterContinental Cascais-Estoril, he has expertise in sales and marketing, revenue management, guest experience, and strategic growth. A graduate of Les Roches Marbella, he currently drives business expansion at Sostate, leveraging his industry expertise to enter new markets. Pedro is known for his teamwork skills, strong communication, and leadership qualities, which have allowed him to excel in fast-paced, competitive environments.
LUÍS PAIS – Head of Development
Luís Pais is an Asset and Project Manager with 30 years of experience in hotel development across Europe and Asia. His expertise covers financial planning, operations, mergers and acquisitions, focusing on maximizing business value. He is known for his ability to define and execute hotel concepts that meet the specific needs of each location and market. Luís serves as an Asset Manager and Hospitality Partner at Estoril Living, where he continues to expand the portfolio and optimizing project execution.
GRAZIELA DA ROCHA – Chief Operating Officer – Valverde Brand Direction
Graziela Vieira da Rocha has built an international career in luxury hospitality across Brazil and Europe. She began her professional journey at the iconic Belmond Copacabana Palace, where she developed a solid operational foundation. Over the years, she held senior leadership roles across Rooms, Food & Beverage, and Events. Her approach is defined by rigor, consistency and a strong focus on service excellence. Her career also includes experience as a global Luxury Quality Assurance Inspector, providing her with a broad international perspective. More recently, she led Bairro Alto Hotel through a phase of operational and strategic consolidation. Today, as Chief Operating Officer of the Valverde Brand at Estoril Living, Graziela oversees the group’s operations, combining strategic vision with deep operational expertise and a people-driven leadership style.
HENRIQUE TIAGO DE CASTRO – Chief Operating Officer – Multibrand Direction
Henrique Tiago de Castro is a hospitality innovator with over 15 years of global experience. Specialized in lifestyle and F&B-driven hotels, he has led operations for Accor, Ennismore, and IHG in markets like Lisbon, Edinburgh, and Cascais. Led the launch and management of iconic hotels such as Mama Shelter Lisbon and EVOLUTION Cascais-Estoril. A strategic leader fluent in five languages, he brings a disruptive approach to hotel management, driving high-performance teams and guest-centric experiences.
TOMÁS RICCIARDI – Chief Financial Officer
Tomás Ricciardi, CFO of Estoril Living, has over eight years of experience in Real Estate Private Equity and Asset Management. He has led major acquisitions, including an Iberian portfolio and one of Portugal’s largest agricultural investments. Holding degrees from IE Business School and Católica Lisbon, he brings a strategic financial vision to the group. As CFO, he oversees financial management, investment planning, and stakeholder relations, driving long-term growth.
JOÃO GAIÃO – Chief Commercial Officer
João Gaião, Chief Commercial Officer of Estoril Living, brings over 16 years of experience in the hospitality sector, with a strong focus on commercial strategy, business development, and brand positioning within the luxury segment. Throughout his career, he has distinguished himself through team leadership, the development of commercial strategies, and the expansion of international markets. At Estoril Living, he leads the group’s commercial strategy, contributing to strengthening the brand’s positioning, fostering synergies across the portfolio, and driving sustainable growth.
JOANA CORTE GARCIA – Head of People & Culture
Joana Corte Garcia is Head of People & Culture at Estoril Living, where she leads the group’s talent strategy, organizational culture, and employee experience. With a strong background in leading international companies, she brings extensive experience in talent development and organizational transformation. Throughout her career, she has been recognized for implementing initiatives that place people at the center of sustainable growth.
At Estoril Living, she plays a key role in shaping a strong company culture, fostering high-performing teams, and reinforcing a people-driven approach to hospitality.
MAGDA VARÃO – Revenue Management Director
Magda Varão is Revenue Management Director at Estoril Living, where she oversees the group’s multi-brand revenue strategy, driving performance, efficiency, and sustainable growth. With over 15 years of experience in Revenue Management, she brings a strong track record in optimizing commercial performance, leading high-performing teams, and implementing data-driven strategies across hospitality operations.
At Estoril Living, she plays a key role in enhancing revenue performance across the portfolio, supporting the group’s expansion and reinforcing a strategic, forward-thinking approach to hospitality. Her leadership reflects a commitment to analytical precision, operational excellence, and long-term value creation.
