Internationalization requires a medium- to long-term vision and synergies, argues Yunit CEO

In a recent interview with RTP África, Bernardo Maciel, CEO of Yunit, argued that the key to successful internationalisation, particularly on the African continent, lies in the "ability to compete", based on a "medium-long term perspective" and the creation of local synergies. The CEO of the management consultancy warned that companies looking to grow beyond borders must have patience and view business plans more as "a guide rather than an exact science".

Yunit's Journey: From PT2020 to ESG and Corporate Finance

Bernardo Maciel, who took control of the company in 2016 through an MBO (Management Buyout), recalled Yunit's journey, founded in 2010 in an adverse economic context. The company consolidated itself in supporting investment projects, specialising in optimising EU funds, such as Portugal 2020, to help Portuguese companies "make a leap in terms of investment and qualification".

Over the years, Yunit has expanded its offering to meet the growing needs of SMEs. In addition to financing, the consultancy now operates in the following areas:

• Tax Benefits: As a direct complement to the investment made.
• Sustainability (ESG): Seeking to simplify a complex topic for SMEs.
• Corporate Finance: Supporting merger, acquisition, and valuation processes, which respond to a "growing interest in expansion" in the market.

Strategy for Africa: "Exporting knowledge and technology"

Regarding the strategy for Africa, Bernardo Maciel clarified that, although Yunit has no direct activity on the continent, its role is fundamental in supporting clients who "are looking at Africa in a more sustained way". Yunit focuses on preparing these companies, analysing business plans and viability to give them "greater decision-making and forecasting capacity".

The CEO highlighted the close proximity to the CPLP Business Confederation, emphasising a vision that goes beyond the simple export of products, focusing instead on "exporting knowledge and technology" and creating "synergistic relationships".

"Arriving in any geography and imposing (...) the methodology, the business, (...) doesn't work in any market."

States Bernardo Maciel, stressing that creating synergies is the critical point. Success, he argued, depends on finding the "right partner" and understanding how both parties can add mutual value, accepting different perspectives to strengthen the common vision.

Yunit Consulting: Together, let's make the Leap

Source: RTP África

Last updated: 12/11/2025