Margarida Duque Ascenção — CEO
Principal at the Cultural and Sports Association of novobanco Group, an organization dedicated to promote cultural, sports and social initiatives that strengthen community, engagement and well‑being among employees and former employees of novobanco Group (~7000). In this role, I contribute to the strategic direction and governance of the association, that foster participation, collaboration and a strong sense of belonging across a diverse employee base. My work combines organizational oversight with a strong focus on people, culture and sustainable engagement. I bring a structured, responsible and purpose‑driven approach, ensuring alignment between the association’s activities and the values of novobanco Group, while creating meaningful experiences that enhance employee connection beyond the workplace. Until Nov 2025 I was Human Resources Business Partner, supporting Commercial Retail and Corporate Banking areas within a leading Portuguese Bank. I work at the intersection of people strategy and business performance, partnering closely with leadership teams to translate business objectives into effective HR solutions. My focus areas include organizational development, talent management, sucession plana, employee engagement, leadership support and change management, always with a pragmatic and results‑driven approach. Known for building trusted relationships with stakeholders, I bring a strong understanding of business dynamics, combined with a people‑centric mindset. I am particularly motivated by initiatives that strengthen organizational culture, develop talent and improve long‑term performance.
Stackforce AI infers this person is a Human Resources professional with a strong focus on employee engagement and organizational development.
Location: Lisbon, Portugal
Experience: 27 yrs 3 mos
Skills
- Community & Institutional Leadership
- Employee Engagement & Well‑being
- Personnel Management
- Management Development
- Onboarding
- Hr Software
- Recruiting
Career Highlights
- Expert in employee engagement and organizational culture.
- Proven track record in HR strategy and talent management.
- Strong leadership in community and institutional initiatives.
Work Experience
Clube novobanco
Principal at Cultural and Sports Association of novobanco Group Employees (5 mos)
NOVO BANCO
HR Business Partner. Retail North & South. Diretora Adjunta (4 yrs 5 mos)
HR Business Partner - International and Corporate Commercial Areas (1 yr 11 mos)
Sub-Diretora no Departamento Capital Humano (2 yrs 11 mos)
Assistente de Direção - HR Manager (1 yr 10 mos)
Banco Espírito Santo S.A.
Assistente de Direção - HR Manager Área Internacional (1 yr 5 mos)
Assistente Direção - Manager R&S na Msearch (2 yrs 2 mos)
Técnica de Recursos Humanos no BES (5 yrs 5 mos)
Técnica Sénior de Recursos Humanos na Espírito Santo Data Informática (2 yrs 8 mos)
Accenture
Human Resources Analyst (2 yrs)
ISCTE
Researcher (2 yrs)
Education
Pós-Graduação at Iscte - Instituto Universitário de Lisboa
6 Day's MINI MBA at INDEG-ISCTE Executive Education
Licenciatura at Instituto Superior de Psicologia Aplicada
Secundario at Colégio Valsassina