Bpost appoints new CEO

Yesterday the federal government has approved the nomination of Koen Van Gerven as CEO of the federal postal service bpost. Van Gerven’s name was proposed to the council of ministers earlier this week by the bpost board. “The government sincerely congratulates Mr Van Gerven and wishes him every success,” prime minister Di Rupo said in a press release.

Van Gerven has been with bpost since 2006 and is currently director of mail and retail solutions. He replaces Johnny Thijs, who declined to have his mandate as CEO renewed after clashes with the government over the new salary cap.

“Koen Van Gerven possesses all of the leadership qualities and experience required to lead bpost,” said Martin Durez, chair of the board. “We are delighted that the internal candidate proposed by the board – someone we have known for seven years – has been approved.”

Van Gerven promised to continue according to the strategic plan put in place at bpost by Thijs, whose departure was lamented by the company, the government and the stock market. The main points of the plan are maintenance of the core business of mail delivery, growth and the continuing improvement of quality and efficiency.

Van Gerven said his aim was also “to have everyone on board,” including customers, employees, shareholders and “society at large”. 

The new CEO will find his remuneration held to the limit set by the government of €500,000 salary and up to €150,000 in variable benefits and bonuses. That represents a small increase on what he earns now, according to Durez. It is just over half of the €1.1 million earned by his predecessor last year. “I think I must have the most transparent salary in Belgium,” Van Gerven joked. 

Photo by Laurie Dieffembacq /Belga