Our strength lies with our team of people, all of whom bring unique skills and talents to our company. Our three partners Jonathan Rignall, Jonathan Alves Tooley and Duarte Gomes lead the company. We have been fortunate in being able to expand our team to service our valued clients.
Figo
Mascot
Figo is the company hound. He spends his day taking the rubbish out of the bins and shredding it into tiny pieces. He is particularly adept at jumping on people at work when they least expect it.
Why did you choose JTA?
Well my dad works here and my job is to follow him everywhere he goes. It was a no brainer really.
Jonathan Rignall
CEO
A natural born company director who achieved his first CEO role in his early twenties in magazine publishing. Jonathan has worked in a strategic role in the gaming industry when he was based in California and has since dedicated himself to market and competitor intelligence roles.
Jonathan is also CEO of JTA’s holding company which manages a portfolio of investments including a hotel and a winery in Portugal’s Douro valley.
Why did you choose JTA?
I first worked with JTA when I was a client at Microsoft. I had contracted them to build a data warehouse to store market intelligence and to serve the data to a worldwide team of business strategists and market analysts. Their solution was ahead of its time and very well executed so I decided to join the company.
What is the most unusual fact about you that not a lot of people know?
I grew up surrounded by the antiques trade and I love to collect antiques. I have collections of French glassware, art deco lighting and, more recently, valve radios from the 1940s to the late 1960s.
What would we be likely to find you doing at the weekend?
When not restoring antiques I love to spend time in the country in Portugal. I was the first foreigner to move to my village and I love being with my neighbors having a barbeque on the terrace.
I have two dogs who I try to keep always by my side.
What is your party trick?
Not to be at the party!
Where is your favorite holiday destination?
Casa de Palhais. My home from home!
Jonathan Alves Tooley
Founder
Jonathan Alves Tooley is a Mathematics graduate and chartered accountant. He has had various careers in both the UK and Portugal. His experience includes being an Interim CFO for a major Internet start-up, a business planning and strategy consultant for a 3G-telecommunication start-up and having regional responsibility for an IT security consultancy for EY.
In terms of personal skills Jonathan has the ability to manage a large and varied array of projects, learn quickly, find effective solutions to problems and maintain a good sense of humor throughout. He possesses exceptional financial and analytical skills with the ability to critically analyze situations both quickly and impartially. As an effective listener, he is able to clearly, concisely and persuasively communicate to a wide range of people with differing backgrounds and needs. He has strong drive and resilience and is a team player that is accustomed to a fast-paced environment where deadlines are a priority and handling multiple jobs simultaneously the norm. Jonathan is extremely computer literate and has direct experience of securing and implementing complex IT systems
Why did you choose JTA?
I started JTA because I needed a job. Also, I had never found a company that was right for my mix of skills and where they would let me bring my dog. So I created it!
What is the most unusual fact about you that not a lot of people know?
I worked for the UK government during the first gulf war.
What would we be likely to find you doing at the weekend?
Soldering circuits in my lab whilst playing with my dogs, dancing to LOUD music and cooking my husband his favorite food!
What is your party trick?
Serve the food on time, with pyrotechnics and a homemade loaf on the side!
Where is your favorite holiday destination?
Luang Prabang. I went there without any expectations but found it charming. Naturally I change my favorite destination every few months.
Duarte Gomes
Partner
After graduating in IT, Duarte went on to take a Master’s in Medical Information Systems at Porto university. He is now JTA’s Head of Data Science.
Why did you choose JTA?
I started to work with JTA before even going to university. I liked to do summer jobs with the team to learn about working as a consultant. As a result, after graduating it felt like the natural next move.
Gustavo A. Figueiredo
Office Manager
Gustavo has a degree in Languages and International Relations. Prior to joining JTA, Gus taught languages, provided translation services and also spent time in the hotel business. He is JTA’s one stop shop for administration. He is responsible for facilities, accounting, purchasing and anything else you can think of that a company needs to keep running.
Why did you choose JTA?
JTA was a great way for me to expand my career into business administration. Consequently, I now have a very broad job description that covers Finance, Human Resources and Office Administration.
What is the most unusual fact about you that not a lot of people know?
I reckon that I am a World-class xylophonist. However, none of the team have heard me play!
What would we be likely to find you doing at the weekend?
Spending time with Maria and the dog, Troll.
What is your party trick?
I am famous as a one-man alcohol and alcohol paraphernalia supplier. My friends know that I nearly always have a bottle of something nice hidden in I backpack when at a party.
Where is your favorite holiday destination?
Don’t have one. But I got a feeling that Tokyo will be the one.
Jorge Prata Pinto
Manager
Jorge was JTA’s first full time employee and he has a decade of experience working with us.
Why did you choose JTA?
JTA’s reputation was the main factor. The opportunity to acquire the valuable professional experience and to work with the largest companies in the world, was very appealing.
What is the most unusual fact about you that not a lot of people know?
I was a federated handball player. In fact, won a national championship for Académico FC.
What would we be likely to find you doing at the weekend?
I hang out with my friends and family as much as possible. Family and friendship ties are my support to overcome daily challenges.
What is your party trick?
Usually, the best party trick I can do is to entertain people and provide them with the best experience and joy possible. I am also good at organizing the annual JTA meeting. So far no one has complained!
Where is your favorite holiday destination?
Any place with sun and beaches.
Daniela Costa
Manager
Daniela is Head of Data Visualization at JTA. She studied Biomedical Engineering at Porto University where she graduated with a Master’s degree.
Why did you choose JTA?
My brother was at university with Duarte and so I got to know the company and liked it!
What is the most unusual fact about you that not a lot of people know?
I love four-wheel drive and there is nothing more satisfying than driving on a mountain with a view and then going on an off-road trail.
What would we be likely to find you doing at the weekend?
On weekends I usually catch up on reading, checking some new coffee house. Catch some sun, if the weather is good or just chilling at the house and have the perfect dolce far niente.
What is your party trick?
I love to sing. Consequently, I burst into song without even realizing!
Where is your favorite holiday destination?
The current idea is going to Himalayas and just explore nature and the culture over there. If not, any place in Thailand seems also a very good place to go.
Ana Catarina Alves
Data Scientist
Catarina Alves is a Mathematician who graduated from Porto University’s Science faculty.
Why did you choose JTA?
I knew about JTA because one of my family also works there. It seemed a natural fit for my ambition to work with data sciences.
What is the most unusual fact about you that not a lot of people know?
I fell in love with Indian food and now I really enjoy cooking it too.
What would we be likely to find you doing at the weekend?
I enjoy personal fitness and I spend a lot of time at the Gym.
What is your party trick?
Out drink the boys.
Where is your favorite holiday destination?
I love a hot country with a great beach. Naturally, I have to be with my partner, Rafael.
Brian Carneiro
Data Scientist
Brian is our OLAP cube wizard.
Why did you choose JTA?
JTA reached me faster than other organizations. So they chose me!
What is the most unusual fact about you that not a lot of people know?
I am a huge fan of Uncle Scrooge books.
What would we be likely to find you doing at the weekend?
Sports and Chill.
What is your party trick?
I am constantly doing harmless pranks. I am well known around the office for being the joker.
Where is your favourite holiday destination?
I am still searching for that special place.
João Freitas
Data Scientist
João has a degree in Economics and a personal interest in Machine Learning. Therefore, he is known for being one of the smartest in the team and also our best footballer.
Why did you choose JTA?
It was the other way round. JTA chose me (which was fortunate)!
What is the most unusual fact about you that not a lot of people know?
I am a great cook but not everyone would agree!
What would we be likely to find you doing at the weekend?
Housekeeping.
What is your party trick?
Make people laugh.
Where is your favorite holiday destination?
I don’t really have one at the moment but I would really love to see Antarctica.
Luís Ramos
Data Scientist
Luís studied Engineering and Management of Information Systems at the Minho University. He graduated with a master’s degree. Before joining JTA, Luís worked for four years on projects for Portugal’s Ministry of Health.
Why did you choose JTA?
I chose JTA for giving me the possibility to work with cutting edge technologies, like GPU computing, and for having a work environment completely opposite to what was used by (public sector), relaxed and university.
What is the most unusual fact about you that not a lot of people know?
I love rallies and I’m a truly petrol head, have traveled multiple times to do track days in the Nürburgring.
What would we be likely to find you doing at the weekend?
Kayaking through the rugged mountains of Gerês which form part of the frontier between Spain and Portugal.
What is your party trick?
Teasing people and try to keep them uncomfortable.
Where is your favorite holiday destination?
I just love to travel the World but Svalbard is right on top of the list and do another safari in Botswana and Namibia would also be fabulous.
Márcio Rebelo
Data Scientist
Márcio has a master’s degree in Statistics. He studied at the Minho University and joined JTA early 2016.
Why did you choose JTA?
JTA has a nice work environment and is a good company to develop a solid career.
What is the most unusual fact about you that not a lot of people know?
During the Summer, I usually take cold showers in the morning. I believe just my family and close friends know about it!
What would we be likely to find you doing at the weekend?
Well, my grandfather was a carpenter and since my childhood I developed a passion for wood and how to recognize its natural beauty. So, during my weekends I usually spend some time putting my creativity on this!
What is your party trick?
My favorite and impressive party trick is spinning a pen around my thumb. I spent hours practicing during my classes in high school. My teachers disapproved my efforts!
Where is your favorite holiday destination?
My favorite holiday destination is Japan. They have an attractive culture, food and amazing places to be visited!
Carolina Cerqueira
Data Scientist
Carolina is from Braga and currently working as a Data Scientist at JTA. She is in the final year of her master’s degree in Engineering and Management of Information Systems at the University of Minho.
Why did you choose JTA?
My favorite subjects at university were all Business Intelligence related. I always knew that I wanted to work for a company in the Data Science area. I came across JTA’s work from Daniela, the head of data visualization. She sold me on the idea of a company that would allow me to work in the area that I wanted, and she wasn’t overselling! Learning about the experiences of other JTA employees helped my decision. It is great that the company is understanding about my student status and I can continue to study while working. I’ve chosen JTA and I don’t regret my choice!
What is the most unusual fact about you that not a lot of people know?
I was born and raised in the fashion and textile world. As a result I developed a creative and aesthetic side that not a lot of people know about.
What would we be likely to find you doing at the weekend?
Besides working on my master’s thesis, I’m a tele addict so you would probably find me watching Netflix, planning my next trip or getting out with my friends and family.
What is your party trick?
My friends are always messing around with me because I know the lyrics from almost any song you want me to sing, old or new.
Where is your favorite holiday destination?
My favorite and last holiday was in Greece. I immediately fell in love with the Mediterranean and the amazing historic buildings. However, I can’t not mention the Azores since it was my favorite gastronomical holiday experience. I can’t wait to go back and visit more islands, whether Greece or the Azores, I don’t really mind!
Domingos Costa
Data Scientist
Domingos means Sundays for the benefit of our foreign friends. Domingos is from from Caldas das Taipas, a small village near Guimarães. He joined JTA in the summer of 2019 and is finishing a Master’s in Information Systems Engineering and Management.
Why did you choose JTA?
I came across JTA in a career fair held in my course’s department, where two former students introduced me to the company. The promise to work in an awesome and young environment, with loads of opportunities and the chance to work in Data Science, my favorite area amongst all the ones I was presented with during college, instantly drawn me to join the company. Changing my usual routine, a new city, new people and the proximity to the train station were just added bonuses.
What is the most unusual fact about you that not a lot of people know?
Something that’s not very easy to see about me is how adaptable to any situation I am. I can either go to a rave party or a classical opera. Try me!
What would we be likely to find you doing at the weekend?
Since I travel back and forth from work, on the weekend I’m most likely going to be resting, chilling, playing online or watching some of my favorite tv shows. Go Sam and Dean!!
What is your party trick?
I can always crack a joke to lighten the mood very easily.
Where is your favorite holiday destination?
My favorite destination so far was, without a doubt, the beautiful city of Prague.
However, any invitation to travel to Germany and you can count me in.
Joana Pereira
Data Scientist
Joana is from Guimarães and is passionate about Mathematics! During her bachelor’s degree she appreciated the beauty of abstract mathematics. She then chose an MSc in Mathematical Engineering to help with a career in data science.
Why did you choose JTA?
I had the chance to get in touch with JTA in a career fair some months ago and I think it was the attitude and the dynamics that really got to me.
What is the most unusual fact about you that not a lot of people know?
I don’t consider it an unusual fact but I love classical music and poetry.
What would we be likely to find you doing at the weekend?
My favorite things in the world are the people that I love. So, for my ideal weekend, I would just spend time with them. I don’t really mind how or where so you can find me doing a lot of things.
What is your party trick?
To be discovered…
Where is your favorite holiday destination?
I have a huge list of places that I want to visit and I always hope that my favorite will be the next one.
Luís Costa
Data Scientist
Luís, is 26 years old and was born and raised in Porto. He joined JTA in the summer of 2019 after delivering his thesis on Network and Information Systems Engineering.
Why did you choose JTA?
I came across JTA in a career fair held at my university. A former student introduced me to the company. I immediately imagined myself working at JTA. Fortunately, I was looking for a job in data science at a company where I would matter. I felt that at the interview and I still feel it.
What is the most unusual fact about you that not a lot of people know?
I’m an open book, you get what you see.
What would we be likely to find you doing at the weekend?
At the weekend, I like to do some Netflix and chill, take my dogs out for walk, play football and watch the Porto games as well as some other football games.
What is your party trick?
Break the ice with some humor.
Where is your favorite holiday destination?
My favorite holiday destination is the Caribbean, they have the best beaches.
Margarida Macedo
Data Scientist
Margarida Macedo has a degree in Mathematics from the University of Porto. Mathematics has always been a passion of hers, and she has a great interest in its applications, particularly in the health sciences.
Why did you choose JTA?
JTA has a great work environment and seemed like the best place for me to do what I love while making a real difference!
What is the most unusual fact about you that not a lot of people know?
If you tell me the name of a song (any song), I can play it in the ukulele!… Possibly.
What would we be likely to find you doing at the weekend?
Spending time with my family and playing with my dogs.
What is your party trick?
I can fold a napkin into a jumping frog.
Where is your favorite holiday destination?
My favorite destination would have to be Switzerland; I travel there often and it never gets old. Nothing beats having a sandwich and a beer on top of the world before an amazing view after having hiked a mountain for hours on end!
João Ferreira
Data Visualization
João Ferreira has a master’s degree in Engineering and Management of information Systems at Minho University. He is currently working as a Data Visualization Engineer in his first working experience outside of his hometown.
Why did you choose JTA?
One of my biggest work-related passions is programming and at JTA, I had the perfect opportunity to do it on a daily basis.
I already knew JTA’s work from Brian and when this opportunity came across, I decided to give it a chance. Once I got to know the company from inside and knew a little bit more about other employees’ experiences, I knew this was the right step for my professional career.
What is the most unusual fact about you that not a lot of people know?
I practiced Krav Maga and was a two-time champion of the biggest futsal tournament at my university.
What would we be likely to find you doing at the weekend?
You probably won’t find me at all due to me being travelling by day and partying at night.
What is your party trick?
Once I get in the mood, anything can happen.
Where is your favorite holiday destination?
Barcelona without a doubt!