Companies

New Generation: João Mendes, ISI Soles

Aug 10, 2026 Portugal

João Mendes, a Management Information Systems graduate from the University of Coimbra, is part of the second generation at ISI Soles, a company that specialises in producing components for the footwear industry

Was working in the footwear industry the natural choice?

Yes, it was. Even while I was studying for my degree, I was eager to learn more about the industry and explore it further. So, when I finished my degree, joining ISI Soles made perfect sense, even though I knew it was a demanding sector with a fast-paced work environment.

How would you define ISI Soles, and what makes it stand out in the market?

ISI Soles stands out thanks to its ability to respond effectively to market needs, which is mainly due to the diversity of its product range. Over the years, the company has established itself as a leading manufacturer of TPU and TPR soles, while also strengthening its focus on the constantly evolving prefabricated sector.

What have been the biggest challenges so far?

On a personal level, it has been difficult to understand the complexity and diversity of the range of raw materials and how they behave. As the company offers a wide range of solutions, and I had no previous experience in this field, this learning process has been particularly demanding but also very rewarding.

What advice would you give to someone just starting out in this industry?

The most important thing, I’d say, is to start on the factory floor. That’s where you can really understand the processes, how production works, and the dynamics of the company. After that, I’d recommend working in different departments to familiarise yourself with every stage of the process and gain an overview of the entire business. This knowledge will be essential for future growth and taking on more responsibilities.

For more information about ISI Soles, visit the website.

Source: apiccaps.pt

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