Antonio Fidalgo

Antonio, former Head of Talent Outreach at UNHCR and HR Manager with NRC Syria, has 20+ years in recruitment, career development, training, and organizational development across the UN and NGOs. With deployments in Iran, Afghanistan, and Ukraine, and a background in psychology, he coaches with a cross-cultural lens, helping clients navigate interviews and applications in international settings.

Based in: Lisbon, Portugal

Languages: English, Spanish, Portuguese

Meet Your Coach

Antonio is an accomplished coach and human resources specialist with extensive experience in international and humanitarian organizations. He previously served as Head of Talent Outreach and Acquisition with UNHCR, HR Manager for Syria with the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC), and Learning and Development Specialist with UNESCO in Paris. In recent years, he has been a member of NRC’s Emergency Roster, deploying as an HR specialist and advisor to high-impact contexts including Iran, Afghanistan, and Ukraine.

Antonio brings broad international experience across the United States, Europe, and Africa, with deep expertise in recruitment, career development, training, and organizational development. His professional foundation in Psychology and Organizational Behavior informs a strong focus on cross-cultural management and communication.

In his coaching work, Antonio applies a cross-cultural lens to interview preparation and cover letter development, helping clients align their profiles with international recruitment panels. He emphasizes that while recruitment processes may be standardized, successful persuasion depends on understanding diverse cultural perspectives and adapting one’s approach accordingly.

Transition to the Development Sector

For professionals ready to make a meaningful impact. Leverage your experience to build a rewarding career in the development sector. Jump-start your international development career today.

Includes three personalized coaching sessions, a tailored CV review, and access to career resources and eBooks.

Advance your development career

Ideal for professionals already in the sector seeking lateral or upward moves. Explore your next opportunity with clarity and confidence as you discover new pathways and grow within the development sector.

Includes three targeted coaching sessions to map your career path, an expert CV review, and access to career resources and eBooks.

Interview Coaching

Got an upcoming interview or want to ace competency-based questions? Impress recruiters and stand out from the crowd.

Includes one focused session with an interview coach, along with practical tips and interview practice.

Application Writing Coaching

Submitting a job application? Let’s make it stand out. Craft compelling, customized applications that get noticed.

Includes one personalized session with an application expert, with real-time feedback and writing guidance.

Job Search Strategy Session

Overwhelmed by your job hunt? Get strategic. Define your goals, refine your approach, and accelerate your results.

Includes one coaching session focused on job search strategy, along with tools and frameworks for a focused and efficient search.