Filip Vanaken

Filip Vanaken

Belgian fresh produce auction Veiling Haspengouw has named Filip Vanaken as its new managing director, following the recent unexpected departure of Renaat Kuipers.

Vanaken, who has been the group's chief financial officer since 1996, was originally appointed as Kuipers’ interim replacement, but the board of directors has now expressed its full confidence in his ability to lead the group on a permanent basis.

He is expected to play an instrumental part in implementing STAM2020, a new corporate strategy that will see Veiling Haspengouw focus on improving efficiency and “market alignment”.

The new strategic vision was first introduced in April 2014 following extensive consultation with the auction’s members.

Veiling Haspengouw markets apples, pears and soft fruit.