Rob Smeets has been appointed CEO of Port of Antwerp-Bruges, succeeding Jacques Vandermeiren, who stepped down after nearly nine years at the helm since January 2017.
Smeets, who has served as the port’s Chief Operations Officer since April 2022, was acting as CEO ad interim following Vandermeiren’s departure in April 2026 and was responsible for ensuring continuity of policy and day-to-day operations during the search for a permanent CEO. In his new permanent role, he will also continue as Chairman of the Management Committee, which oversees the port’s daily management.
A graduate of Delft University of Technology, Smeets brings extensive operational experience from within the port and has been closely involved in its strategic development, including the integration of activities following the merger of the former Port of Antwerp and Port of Bruges.
The appointment marks a new leadership phase for one of Europe’s largest and most strategically important ports, which serves as a major gateway for global trade, chemicals, containers and bulk cargo.
