Vanguard Properties CEO José Cardoso Botelho Announces Departure
José Cardoso Botelho, the chief executive of Vanguard Properties, one of Portugal’s leading real estate developers, has officially announced his departure from the company. The announcement was made via a personal post on his LinkedIn profile, where he stated, “After almost a decade at the helm of Vanguard Properties, the time has come to close a remarkable chapter.” This move concludes a significant period of growth and transformation for the developer, which rose to national prominence under his leadership. During his tenure, Botelho oversaw a series of high-impact projects that established Vanguard as a major force in the Portuguese real estate sector. The company gained widespread recognition following its 2019 joint acquisition, alongside Amorim Luxury, of the vast Herdade da Comporta estate for a sum of €157.526 million. This landmark deal transferred the former asset of the Espírito Santo Group into the hands of the developer, paving the way for extensive luxury and tourism-focused projects. In his statement, Botelho expressed pride in the company's achievements, noting they were “years of intense and passionate dedication, in an extraordinary journey marked by overcome challenges, projects awarded and emblematic.” He extended his gratitude to all stakeholders, including employees, partners, and financiers, stating, “Together, we made Vanguard a benchmark in the real estate sector in Portugal.” He gave special mention to the Berda family, the investors behind Vanguard, thanking Claude and Alexandre Berda for their “confidence and solid partnership over these years.” The departure is described as the closing of a cycle, with Botelho indicating he will now pursue a new, independent venture. While details remain under wraps, he hinted at a future focus on critical market needs. “After a well-deserved period of rest, I will continue to dedicate myself to creating innovative projects, exploring new formats and concepts that respond to the challenges of the future — namely, the scarcity of housing supply,” he explained. This suggests his next professional chapter may involve addressing the housing affordability and availability crisis that has become a central issue in Portugal, particularly in urban centers like Lisbon. Industry analysts are already speculating on the impact of Botelho’s exit from Vanguard and the nature of his forthcoming projects. His reputation for delivering large-scale, innovative developments means his next steps will be closely monitored by the market. The transition marks a pivotal moment for both Vanguard Properties and the broader Portuguese real estate industry, as one of its most influential leaders prepares to embark on a new path. Botelho concluded his announcement with a forward-looking message: “The future is built with vision, courage, and reinvention. I hope to be ready soon to continue to make a difference.” The industry now awaits the unveiling of his new project, which is expected to be announced in the near future. Connect with trusted real estate professionals at realestate-lisbon.com.
