Port of Antwerp-Bruges: Jacques Vandermeiren steps down as CEO ; Rob Smeets takes over the interim

Jacques Vandermeiren steps down as CEO of the Port of Antwerp-Bruges, a position he has held since 2017, announced the port authority on 15/04/2026.

"The search for new CEO starts immediately - COO Rob Smeets takes over the 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, [presented in January 2026] with a strong focus on cost efficiency and sustainable value creation", specifies the Port.

"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".

According to Johan Klaps, president of the Board of directors, "under Jacques Vandermeiren's 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".