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2026-04-14

Havenhuis
Havenhuis

Leadership change at Port of Antwerp-Bruges: Jacques Vandermeiren steps down as CEO

The search for new CEO starts immediately – COO Rob Smeets takes over ad interim 

Behind the scenes, discussions about a change in leadership at the Port of Antwerp-Bruges 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. 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.

Jacques Vandermeiren, 62 years old and CEO since January 2017, will therefore step down from his duties. Pending the appointment of a new CEO, the role of CEO ad interim will be assumed by the current COO, Rob Smeets, who will ensure continuity of policy and day-to-day operations.

Johan Klaps, President of the Board of Directors: “

On behalf of the Board of Directors, I would like to express my greatest appreciation for Jacques’ contribution in recent years. 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. 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 organization we are today. The entire Board of Directors expressly thanks Jacques for his commitment, engagement and achievements. We wish him every success and fulfilment in whatever lies ahead. 

”
Jacques Vandermeiren, outgoing CEO Port of Antwerp-Bruges: “

 It is time for a new era. 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 organization 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.

”
Rob Smeets, COO and CEO ad interim: “

 As a representative of the executive team, I would like to thank Jacques for his inspiring leadership. 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.

”

 

For press inquiries, contact:

press@portofantwerpbruges.com
+32 492 15 41 39

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About Port of Antwerp-Bruges

With an annual throughput of 267 million tonnes, Port of Antwerp-Bruges is a world port in the heart of Europe. The port is a unique ecosystem of maritime throughput, logistics and industry, and is home to Europe’s largest integrated chemical cluster. As a hub for containers, general cargo and vehicles, and home to over 1400 companies, it accounts for around 164,000 direct and indirect jobs and 21 billion euros in added value. This makes it Belgium’s most important economic engine.

Port of Antwerp-Bruges aims to become the first world port that reconciles economy, people and climate. The Antwerp-Bruges Port Authority, a limited liability company of public law, manages the port platforms of Antwerp and Zeebrugge. The cities of Antwerp and Bruges are the shareholders. Jacques Vandermeiren is CEO, Johan Klaps (Vice-Mayor of Antwerp) is President of the Board of Directors, and Dirk De fauw (Mayor of Bruges) is Vice-President.