The world is undergoing an unprecedented demographic shift. According to data from the OECD, the proportion of people aged over 65 per 100 working-age adults has increased significantly in recent decades and is expected to continue rising until 2050. This population ageing, combined with persistently low birth rates, poses substantial challenges for economies, labor markets, and public policy systems.
It is within this context that the Center on Longevity Leadership emerges, an initiative of the Católica-Lisbon School of Business and Economics, part of the Universidade Católica Portuguesa, with the aim of preparing leaders and organizations for the longevity economy.
An Integrated Vision: Talent, Market, and Society
Founded by Céline Abecassis-Moedas and Amélia Rita Monteiro, the Center structures its activities around three complementary pillars. The Talent pillar focuses on managing longer careers and supporting organizations in adapting to a multigenerational workforce. The Market pillar explores opportunities within the longevity economy, including innovation in products and services aimed at ageing populations. The Society pillar examines implications for public policy, inclusion, and intergenerational cohesion.
This structure reflects a perspective that goes beyond demographic trends, positioning longevity as a driver of transformation in work models, education systems, and economic development.
Strategic Partnerships and Applied Research
The Center is grounded in strong collaboration with the corporate sector. Companies such as Bondalti, Brisa, CUF, Fidelidade, Galp, José de Mello, Servier, and Trivalor participate as founding members.
This collaboration enables the development of applied research in real-world settings, bridging scientific knowledge and organizational practice. The Center operates as a laboratory for experimentation, where solutions to challenges related to workforce ageing and evolving markets are tested and refined.
The international dimension is equally central. The Center draws inspiration from the “New Map of Life” framework developed by the Stanford Center on Longevity, of which Céline and Amélia are Ambassadors. This framework proposes a reorganization of life and career trajectories in response to increased longevity.
Work, Careers, and Longevity
The research conducted highlights the role of age diversity as a driver of innovation, learning, and talent retention. The coexistence of multiple generations within organizations requires new approaches to leadership, job design, and skills development.
In this context, frameworks such as Life Design and lifelong reskilling become particularly relevant. These perspectives challenge the traditional linear model (education, work, retirement) and promote more flexible and adaptive career trajectories.
A Center with Academic and Societal Impact
In a context marked by talent shortages, technological transformation, and demographic change, the Center on Longevity Leadership positions itself as a hub for knowledge creation with real impact. Its activities integrate research, education, and collaboration with organizations, contributing to robust responses to emerging challenges.
Through this initiative, the Universidade Católica Portuguesa strengthens its position in areas of strategic research relevance, fostering connections between academia, business, and society. The Center frames longevity not as a problem to be managed, but as an opportunity to be structured.
Longevity Dialogues Event
The Center on Longevity Leadership at Católica-Lisbon is delighted to invite you to Longevity Dialogues, a special evening dedicated to the future of longevity, work, leadership, and life transitions. On 22 June 2026, we will welcome two internationally recognised authors and thought leaders — Michael Clinton, author of Longevity Nation, and Dan Pontefract, author of The Future of Work Is Grey — for a book launch and round table discussion exploring the profound transformations driven by longer lives. The event will take place at 18h30 at Católica-Lisbon School of Business & Economics.
Register here.
Amélia Rita Monteiro, Researcher at Católica Lisbon School of Buiness and Economics