Hello, I'm Teresa Abecasis Burnay.
An action - oriented executive, with strong strategic thinking, having worked in different companies, categories, functions, and geographies (local / global). Excels at leading teams, managing entire business P&Ls, negotiating with several interfaces (internal / external), with the right combination of seniority, humbleness, and strategic influencing to connect with key stakeholders and get things done. Presents a powerful balance of analytical and critical thinking skills, with obsession for consumer and shopper, identifying opportunities to support companies / markets on their business development. Passionate about people, having demonstrated throughout the years consistent team leadership and talent catalyst competencies, leveraging the best of each one to maximize outcomes. Never take things for granted, adapting quickly to change, and driving transformation whilst inspiring others. A believer that leading is serving.
Details
- Professional CategoryGovernance & Board Management
- Location
- Years of Relevant Experience20+ years
- Seniority LevelC-Suite
- Consulting Rate (Hourly)275
Headline
Throughout my career, I have developed a keen understanding of organisational strategy, risk management, and corporate governance. I have served on several boards, where I have contributed to robust decision-making, effective oversight, and the cultivation of a positive organisational culture. A seasoned business leader with extensive local and international experience across different companies, categories, and geographies, combining strategic vision with operational excellence. With a strong analytical mindset and a proven ability to lead teams, manage full P&Ls, and influence senior stakeholders, I bring a results-driven yet humble leadership style. My global tenure at Unilever Headquarters, coupled with hands-on management of multiple business units in a complex European market, has honed my capacity to drive growth, transformation, and sustainable performance. Passionate about people and consumers, I excel in finding strategic opportunities, developing scalable business models, and leading cross-functional initiatives that deliver measurable impact. Notable achievements include setting up Unilever’s Category Management in Portugal, developing global Perfect Store Solutions, delivering 25% complexity reduction under Fuel 4 Growth, and leading a major media transformation achieving consistent CPR reductions. An active industry leader, I keep strong networks across customer, media, and regulatory landscapes, and chair multiple trade associations. I now bring this breadth of strategic, commercial, and governance ability to Board Advisory roles focused on growth, transformation, and responsible brand leadership.
Experience
Product Manager | Category Manager | Field Sales Manager
Mkt and Trade Mkt manager
Category and Customer Mkt Lead
Head of Marketing
Global Customer Development Director
Businet Unit Director | Media Director | Chairperson of Advertising Self-Regulatory Association and President of Joint Industry Committee
Industry
- Manufacturing
Specific Jurisdictions That I'm Qualified In or Can Cover
Language(s)
- English
- Polish
- Spanish
Education
Nova School of Business Education
Professional Membership / Certification
Proficiency in English (Cambridge)
I am interested in
- Providing Services based on my Expertise