In this episode of Brazil (is not) for Beginners, Isaac sits down with Marcos Couto, President and CEO of Alper Seguros, seasoned insurance executive, and veteran board member. With nearly 40 years in the industry, Marcos has done it all—from starting out in marine insurance at 14, to leading growth strategies at companies like ACE Brazil and executing major turnarounds at Tempo Assist and BR Insurance, now Alper Seguros, a consolidator transforming Brazil’s fragmented insurance brokerage landscape.

Marcos shares the lessons learned from a career defined by bold moves, high-stakes decisions, and a deep understanding of how governance, strategy and a focus on execution and performance shape long-term success. Whether you’re interested in Brazil’s unique business dynamics, leadership under pressure, or scaling companies in tough markets, this conversation delivers insights well beyond the world of insurance.

Other key topics include:

• Why strategic career moves can matter more than linear growth

• What it takes to turn around struggling companies and drive big exits

• How governance, transparency, and board alignment impact business growth

• The playbook for consolidating industries through mergers & acquisitions

• Why meritocracy and culture are critical in scaling high-performance teams

• The hidden opportunities in Brazil’s insurance and brokerage markets

• And lots more…