COO Rob Smeets will assume the role of interim CEO while the port seeks a permanent replacement for Jacques Vandermeiren
The Port of Antwerp-Bruges has announced that its CEO Jacques Vandermeiren has stepped down after nine years at the helm.
Pending the appointment of a replacement, the role of interim CEO will be assumed by the current COO Rob Smeets.
In a statement, the port said that discussions about a change in leadership had been “underway for some time”.
”The organisation is at the start of a new strategic phase, with a strong focus on cost efficiency and sustainable value creation,” it explained.
”In that context, it was decided that it is appropriate for this phase to be led by a new CEO, who can design and implement the new strategic plan fully from the outset.”
Vandermeiren, 62, had occupied the role of CEO since January 2017.
“It is time for a new era,” he said. ”For the company and for me personally. I have done this job with heart and soul.
”As an Antwerp native, the port has always been close to my heart, and it was a privilege to transform this organisation into a modern, dynamic and high-performing company.
”I am proud of the path we have been able to take together with the entire team and I want to thank everyone who contributed to it,” Vandermeiren commented.
Johan Klaps, president of the board of directors at Antwerp-Bruges, expressed his and the board’s appreciation for Vandermeiren’s contribution over the past decade.
”Under his leadership, not only was the position of our port on the world map strengthened, but major steps were also taken in innovation and the much-needed greening of our sector,” outlined Klaps.
”His greatest achievement is undoubtedly the successful implementation of the merger between the ports of Antwerp and Zeebrugge, a historic journey that has shaped us into the unified, strong organisation we are today.
“The entire board of directors expressly thanks Jacques for his commitment, engagement and achievements,” he continued. |”We wish him every success and fulfilment in whatever lies ahead. ”
Interim CEO Smeets also praised the outgoing chief executive.
”As a representative of the executive team, I would like to thank Jacques for his inspiring leadership,” he added.
”I am taking on my role as interim CEO with full dedication, with continuity for our employees and customers at the heart of my focus.”
