Interviewing Mariana Charters Monteiro: The Importance Of In-Person Relationships And Strategic Partnerships In Mercan’s Global Growth And Investor Relations Strategy

Interview with Mariana Charters Monteiro, Director of Investor Relations & Operations at Mercan

As Mercan continues to expand globally, connecting with international partners and agents becomes increasingly important - especially in the digital era we live in. Building in-person relationships based on transparency and proximity remains key to strengthening Mercan’s international presence. In this interview, Mariana Charters Monteiro, Director of Investor Relations & Operations, explains the strategy behind the network Mercan has built over the years and what can be expected for the future.

During 2025, Mercan’s Investor Relations team met partners, investors, and agents from all around the world in person. In a digital era, why is this proximity so important?

The Mercan Sales team has met agents in person at our offices in Portugal, as well as during roadshows and conferences. While technology makes communication easier, nothing replaces face-to-face interaction. Meeting in person allows the team to build stronger relationships with agents, understand cultural nuances, and reinforce trust. This proximity helps cultivate a solid professional network and enables us to align objectives and foster long-lasting, strategic partnerships across all the markets in which we operate.

In terms of networking and partnerships, why do events bring new opportunities for Mercan?

Events provide a unique opportunity to engage directly with agents in their home markets. Beyond strengthening existing relationships, they allow us to gain insights into market trends, increase Mercan’s visibility, and reinforce brand awareness. Often, a conversation at an event can open doors that an email or phone call simply cannot. Moreover, presenting Mercan’s investment project features in person allows us to communicate certain details more clearly and efficiently. Being present also ensures that we stay top of mind with our agents, reinforcing Mercan’s commitment while positioning us as a reliable and engaged partner in their respective markets.

As Director of Investor Relations & Operations, how do you identify the right partners for Mercan?

We look for partnerships whose values align with Mercan’s, who have a strong and trustworthy reputation, and who can complement our services. We evaluate track records, industry experience, and cultural fit to ensure that every partnership is mutually beneficial and strengthens our global presence. Agents play a central role in Mercan’s business model, as they are the primary source of referrals, connecting investors with Mercan’s investment projects and contributing directly to our growth.

How do you structure communication with agents and external partners to ensure consistency and transparency?

Our communication with agents is guided by regularity, clarity, and reliability. We maintain ongoing contact through structured meetings, periodic newsletters, detailed reports, and a CRM platform, ensuring everyone is well informed about processes, project updates, regulatory changes, and new opportunities. We use standardized templates and communication workflows to guarantee that information is consistent across all teams. Beyond sharing information, we actively listen to agents’ feedback, address questions promptly, and provide consistent support. We track follow-ups and action points from every interaction in the CRM platform to ensure commitments are met and expectations are aligned.

What do you think Mercan does differently in the way it supports and collaborates with agents internationally?

At Mercan, we take a collaborative and proactive approach. We provide our agents with the tools and practical support they need to achieve the best results. We work closely with them, listen to their needs, and tailor solutions. In addition to participating in large international conferences organized by global agents, we also develop ad-hoc, country-specific events, webinars, and agent team trainings, both online and in person.

How do you envision Mercan’s growth in the coming years, particularly in terms of partnerships and global presence?

I see Mercan continuing to grow strategically and sustainably in the coming years. We will consolidate the work we have been doing by strengthening and expanding our portfolio of new projects eligible under country residency programs, alongside complementary services such as legal support, Portuguese classes, relocation assistance, connections with local service providers, and Hosting services. We will continue to provide exceptional service not only to our agents but also to our investors. By delivering these comprehensive solutions, we will empower our partners to sell Mercan’s products more effectively, drive their own business growth, and reinforce Mercan’s position as a trusted, global leader in the market.

Mercan’s approach to partnerships aims for sustainable growth. This ensures that agents, partners and investors are equipped with the clarity, confidence, and tools needed to succeed, as, lastly, the main goal is to deliver value to all involved in the migration by investment landscape.

If you wish to learn more about Mercan’s global opportunities, feel free to reach out to Mariana Charters Monteiro and the Investor Relations team.