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Port of Antwerp-Bruges steps down

[ April 14, 2026   //   ]

Jacques Vandermeiren has stepped down as chief executive of the port of Antwerp-Bruges with chief operating officer Rob Smeets taking over on an interim basis. A search for a new permanent chief executive is underway.

President of the Board of Directors, Johan Klaps, said : “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.. ”

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.”

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