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AlumniMatters The magazine made for Deloitte #colleaguesforlife Issue 2 • April 2022 “The Deloitte energy stays with us even when we leave, and people recognise that.” ELLEN GLAZEMAKERS Director in Tax & Legal at Deloitte
AlumniMatters | Edition 2 AlumniMatters | Edition 2
What’s
Inside
06 08 14 22 28
A L U M N I M AT T E R S
A P R I L 2 0 2 2 , N O. 2
Published by Deloitte Belgium.
Publication director
Marc De Maeyer
Editorial address DELOIT TE INSPIRES BRE AKING BRE AD WITH OLIVIER DE FOLLOWING THE GREEN THREAD WITH COMING FULL CIRCLE WITH ELLEN G L O B E : J U S T B E YO U R S E L F
Marketing & Communications CARTIER, CEO OF BELGIAN BAKERY S TA N Y VA E S , M A N A G I N G D I R E C T O R AT G L A Z E M A K E R S , D I R E C T O R I N TA X &
Deloitte Gateway Building C O M PA N Y C O PA I N S .G R O U P DENUO L E G A L AT D E L O I T T E
Luchthaven Brussel Nationaal 1 J
1930 Zaventem
Former triathlete Marc Herremans inspired
For questions about this issue Deloitters and explained how we can Learn why sustainability is a no-brainer for Discover why Stany believes the business Ellen tells us what brought her back to the Inclusion is not a stand-alone programme
or ideas for the next issue please expand our boundaries by focusing on Olivier and why purpose and profit need to world holds the key to unlocking today’s firm and what makes her most proud to be but a shift in culture
contact BEalumni@deloitte.com the positive. co-exist. sustainability challenges. a Deloitter.
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STORIES
THAT CONNECT
P I E T VA N D E N D R I E S S C H E
C E O D E L O I T T E B E LG I U M
One of the reasons we started AlumniMatters was to offer a way
to connect with you, our #colleaguesforlife, through stories that shine
a light on the present and that speak to how we are collectively shaping
our future. A chance for us all to be inspired and to inspire.
Sharing our stories is a crucial part of what communities near and far. And how
makes us human; they can unite us. We’re Deloitte’s WorldClimate programme
delighted to be sharing such a rich tapestry unites colleagues across the world in
of interviews, articles and insights with working towards shared sustainability
you in this second edition and we invite commitments.
you to sit back, and join us on a journey of
discovery. Nurturing connections has always played
an important role in everything we do,
Read the inspiring stories of three of our and our alumni programme is a perfect
“Nurturing connections has alumni and one boomerang who each
in their own way are making an impact
that matters – from sustainable baking,
example.
To you, and all our alumni, thank you for
always played an important role and heping shape the future of waste
management to raising the bar for how
being part of our story and for letting us be
part of yours!
in everything we do.”
Belgian companies operate.
Discover how initiatives like our holiday-
P I E T VA N D E N D R I E S S C H E season Digital Shoebox Donation
C E O D E L O I T T E B E LG I U M Drive allow us to collectively support
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DELOITTE INSPIRES
N E W PE R S PEC TIV E S
There’s a powerful connection between how and what we think and the
people we surround ourselves with. Aimed to inspire all Deloitters, our
Deloitte Inspires programme invites speakers from diverse backgrounds,
areas of expertise, and life experiences to share their stories of impact and
spark inspiration.
“We’re given two hands – one to help
yourself and one to lift up someone else.”
MARC HERREMANS
We all know that being able to adapt to changing situations is key
to success, and former triathlete Marc Herremans’ journey is the
perfect case in point.
Four years after suffering a training accident that left him
paralysed from the chest down, Marc achieved his dream of
winning the 2006 World Champion Ironman title. He went on
to found the charity To Walk Again, become a sports coach,
travel the world, and – achieving one of his life goals – start a
family.
MARC HERREMANS
In September 2021, Marc joined us for a hybrid Deloitte
Inspires session where he spoke about the lessons he’s learned
following his life-altering accident, how setbacks stimulate
creativity, and how we can expand our boundaries by focusing
on the positive.
This unforgettable session saw Marc compare moments of his
life to a deck of cards as a powerful illustration of perseverance,
hope and strength in the face of adversity.
Deloitte Inspires for alumni – stay tuned!
As an alumnus, you will soon be able to register for the
Deloitte Inspires sessions.
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BREAKING
BREAD WITH…
O LIVIE R DE C A R TIE R
Olivier de Cartier, CEO of Belgian bakery company Copains.Group explains why
focusing on sustainability is a no-brainer for him, why purpose and profit need to
co-exist, how his Deloitte background opens doors, and the secret to helping people
make more sustainable choices.
You started your career as “Even now, I regularly think We started out with just 12
a tax consultant at Deloitte. people, and now we’re over 100
What attracted you to the of the role models I had full-time equivalents, with 15
firm? at Deloitte. They showed
“Doing good in the world, both on an
times the turnover.
Towards the end of my law
studies, I applied to a few
me what it is to be good What inspired you to shift
environmental and societal level, and being different companies. While I at work and good for your focus to creating a
profitable are becoming more and more
was on Erasmus in Ljubljana
people at the same time.” sustainable bakery?
in Slovenia, a friend working at From the start of the Copains
Deloitte convinced me to apply
intertwined. In ten years from now, companies
adventure, craftsmanship
there. At that stage you have You left Deloitte in 2015 for and local production were
no idea what really sets one an exciting new project that
will have no choice but to place sustainability
key elements of our DNA.
company apart from another, would set the tone for your And not just because of
career to date. Tell us more.
firmly at the heart of what they do.”
but he was so enthusiastic market demand. To me, and
about his own experience that My departure from Deloitte much of my generation, it’s
I decided to go for it. And it was was very abrupt, and a real just common sense. We built
Olivier de Cartier a decision I never regretted. leap into the unknown. I had partnerships with local farmers
CEO of Belgian bakery company Copains.Group the opportunity to take over a and put a strong focus on the
What did you most value small bakery near Mons that way wheat is produced. It’s not
about your time at Deloitte? was close to bankruptcy. I rocket science, but when you
At the time, my colleagues. We knew the demand for quality see that only 10% of bread in
were like a ‘gang’, in the best bread was there, and I wanted Belgium is made with Belgian
possible sense. We had the to take on this entrepreneurial wheat, you realise that there’s
stimulation of our work with challenge, but things had to something wrong with the
Deloitte, and all kinds of extra go very fast. So I explained system. At Copains, 90% of our
events that bonded us even the situation to my Deloitte wheat is Belgian, and all our
more. Now, looking back, what I partner, and he told me to flour comes from a family mill
value most is the huge amount go for it. I left Deloitte on a less than 50km from our atelier.
of learning. Not in a technical Tuesday, and started in my There are so many ways we
sense, but learning to work in a new role the next day! My can use our business as a force
team, to manage a project, and Deloitte background gave me for good, and that’s part of the
learning from the partners. I huge credibility, and the trust reason we’re in the process
had the chance to work closely that was placed in me paid off of becoming ‘B Corp’ certified,
with a few partners and they – after just a few months, we which is all about balancing
became absolute role models broke even, and the business purpose and profits.
to me. went from strength to strength.
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Changing people’s What are the biggest internal processes to make sure “At Copains.group, we’re
behaviour isn’t easy. What’s professional challenges it’s the right people who are
not perfect. And we’re not
your approach? you’re facing? deciding. For example, teams
As consumers, we’re paying Today, the biggest challenge are actively involved in hiring afraid to say that. But for
more attention to the origin is handling the huge growth new members, because the every decision we make
and quality of the products we we’re experiencing – and attitude and fit of a newcomer
buy, but we’re lazy. We don’t the forecasts are staggering! is even more important than we ask ourselves how
want to change our shopping Another is keeping our their competencies. We’ve we can do better for the
habits. So our mission independence, while at the managed to create a really
was to bring these local, same time being able to special culture, and people
planet and for people.”
quality products to the big support our societal values. appreciate that. In fact, we’ve
supermarkets. And that’s what But I’m confident that we’ll be never had anyone leave the
we’ve done. As a company, able to find the right financial company, which I think says a
you need to adapt yourself partners that will allow us to lot.
to your customers. Many stay true to what we believe in.
companies forget to focus on Where do you see yourself
the consumer. They make it all The name Copains is great in 5 years?
about themselves and their word play, but what else Hopefully still involved in
values, and how ‘green’ they does it signify? multiple entrepreneurial
are. If you do that, maybe you’ll We’ve put people at the heart projects, because it’s what
convince people to buy your of our bread-baking business I love to do. And as always,
product once, but unless the from the very beginning, so combining that with a positive
product stands out, they won’t the play on ‘pain’ (bread) and societal impact – I want to go to
keep buying it. Make great ‘copains’ (friends) is really apt. sleep at night knowing that I’m
products that people want to At Copains, we have a flat doing work that is meaningful,
buy, or offer an outstanding hierarchy, where we encourage that has purpose.
service that brings real value. people to be as autonomous
That’s the foundation of a as possible. Why? Because
profitable company. people who are trusted and
empowered are happier and do
better work. That doesn’t mean UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL WITH OLIVIER
we don’t have leaders, but
for many decisions, we have
Age Home town
39
Charleroi
COPAINS.GROUP
Copains.Group is a 100% Belgian bakery company
that co-creates innovative breads with local partners,
and supplies retail chains like Delhaize, Carrefour, Favorite series Favourite dish
Délitraiteur, Mestdagh, Cora, Intermarché, and Peaky Blinders A smashed burger from
others partners. They also provide quality bread to Rambo (Ixelles). Explosive.
community services like hospitals and retirement
homes.
https://copains.group/
Nr 1 on your bucket list Favourite quote:
B CORP CERTIFICATION Write a novel “If you can’t have fun,
there’s no sense in doing it”.
B Corp Certification is a designation that a business is
meeting high standards of social and environmental
performance, accountability, and transparency on
factors from employee benefits and charitable giving
to supply chain practices and input materials. Best advice someone ever The song that always makes you
gave you (and who): get up and dance:
https://bcorporation.eu/
You don’t make wrong career choices Fistful Of Love – Anthony and the Johnsons
before 30.
University professor from Zurich.
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REWRITING THE
FUTURE TOGETHER Empowering our employees
We’ve introduced several programmes and incentives to make it easier for our
employees to transition to sustainable transport alternatives that suit their
lifestyle and our planet. We’ve also teamed up with food waste warriors Too
H OW WO R LD CLIM AT E IS IN S PIRING AC TIO N E V E RY DAY Good To Go so our people can buy delicious leftovers from our restaurant.
Launched globally in September 2020, WorldClimate outlines Deloitte’s commitments
in four key areas: achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, ensuring
‘green’ operations across our organisation, empowering Deloitters to become climate
action ambassadors, and contributing to a broader ecosystem that facilitates the
transition to a low-carbon economy.
Contributing to engaging ecosystems
We worked with VOKA and Agoria to map out how
the Flemish economy can transition away from our
energy-intensive economy in an ecologically and
economically sound way, while collaborations with
non-profit associations like Brussels-based CAPITAL
help us engage with the next generation of talent and
inspire them to help build our future together.
Reaching net-zero emissions by 2030
Deloitte Belgium embarked on its own sustainability
journey in 2017, and since then, we’ve achieved an
overall reduction of CO2 emissions by 65%.
Greening our operations
WHAT’S YOUR PERSONAL CLIMATE IMPACT?
We’re working on eco-friendly initiatives focused around three main
areas: waste reduction, sustainable procurement and green certification.
In every aspect of our lives, the choices we make have an impact – from the food we eat, to what
We’re cutting down on waste by reducing paper consumption, replacing
we buy and how we travel. Take our climate impact quiz to learn more and discover actions you
plastic bottles with reusable ones, and introducing EcoSmart waste
can take to live more sustainably.
separation and collection. Our gold EcoVadis’ rating recognises our
sustainable procurement practices since 2017.
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FOLLOWING THE
GREEN THREAD WITH…
S TA N Y VA E S
Stany Vaes, Managing Director at industry association Denuo shares why he applied
for a job at Deloitte Legal even though he wasn’t sure he wanted it, how sustainability
has been a common thread throughout his career, and how the business world holds
the key to unlocking today’s sustainability challenges.
What initially attracted you people, all fully engaged in this Belgian industry association
to join Deloitte Legal? multidisciplinary approach. It for the retail sector. After a
By the time I did my first was the perfect environment few years there, I realised that
interview with Deloitte Legal for exchanging ideas, gaining if I really wanted to excel as a
(which was known as Laga new insights. There was always public affairs professional, I
until January 2020), I was a real ‘can do’ mentality, and needed more communications
convinced I wanted to give up a huge amount of trust. I felt experience, so I joined a
law completely. I’d worked in empowered to push myself, strategic communication
classic law firms for a few years, to create something. Linked consultancy firm, Whyte
was fed up with litigation and to that, I found the coaching Corporate Affairs. That
“Ambitious regulations are important, but wanted to do something more culture invaluable. There were gave me the opportunity
constructive. A good friend who so many opportunities to learn to do client work on public
alone they cannot resolve all the sustainability was working for Deloitte told from others, and help others affairs, lobbying, and also get
me they needed someone with learn. It’s something I’ve never familiar with various kinds of
challenges we have today. I’ve always my profile, so I did the interview experienced in the same way communication, from crisis
more as a favour to him. The outside Deloitte. And I’ve made communication around
strongly believed that the key to finding recruiter knew I was hesitant, sure to incorporate elements of product recalls, communication
but in the end, understanding that coaching culture at Denuo, around restructuring, to multi-
solutions lies within the business world.” my passion for sustainability, even though we’re a small stakeholder dialogues related
managed to convince me that organisation with a headcount to building permit applications.
I’d be able to make the impact of 12.
STANY VAES I was seeking. Deloitte had You are now general
Managing Director at industry association Denuo started its ‘Greening the Green What has your career path manager of Denuo. What
Dot’ project the previous year, been since you left Deloitte? does Denuo do? And how did
and sustainability-related client When I left Deloitte, I wanted that move come about?
services were getting off the to take this multidisciplinary Denuo is the Belgian industry
ground, so it felt like the right approach one step further, association for private-sector
move after all. so I joined an engineering companies that are active in
consultancy firm where I waste management solutions
What did you value most advised on environmental law or recycling. We have about
about your time at Deloitte? issues. But after a year or so, 300 member companies,
For me, it all came down to I felt it was time to completely from small niche players and
people, attitude and culture. redirect. And that’s when the family-owned businesses, right
Being surrounded by so public affairs chapter of my the way up to big companies
many driven, highly skilled career began, at Comeos, the that are active across the
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whole value chain, like Suez. I How important is the role of focus on circularity, which I’m world ready to embrace
saw Denuo’s job ad for a new the business community in particularly happy about as I’m eco-design or designing with
general manager on LinkedIn tackling the sustainability working with waste streams recycling in mind? Or use
by chance. I hesitated to apply challenges we face today? and material flows. I also see more recycled materials to
at first, but then I realised that Throughout my career, a lot of policy work around make new products? There
the role brought together the sustainability has been a sustainability, like the work for are huge advantages to be
three different parts of my common thread. And I’ve VOKA and Agoria (respectively gained, including building a
career: understanding the legal seen first-hand the need for, the Flemish business stronger local economy that’s
framework and the challenges and benefits of ambitious association and the federation less dependent on resources
the business community faces regulations. But regulations for the technology industry) from other countries. Within
around sustainability; knowing alone cannot resolve where Deloitte mapped out our own industry, one of our
how an industry association everything. Since day one, how the Flemish economy biggest challenges is to ensure
works and how to best I’ve strongly believed that the can transition away from our more transparency around
manage those relationships key to finding solutions to energy-intensive economy in an waste streams. With more
between stakeholders; sustainability challenges lies ecologically and economically traceability in what we do with
and understanding the within the business world. I’ve sound way. waste, where it ends up, there
public affairs side, where seen a lot of innovation, with can be more accountability.
I knew I could help Denuo companies going faster and What are the biggest
communicate better and further than what regulations challenges your industry is Where do you see yourself
increase their visibility. imposed, or even calling for facing? in five years?
stricter regulations. So I really There are three big, inter- I work with an amazing team
believe that the business world related challenges. The first is of people, in an industry that
“As an industry association,
UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL WITH STANY
can drive change. whether or not we, as a society, makes sense and that brings
we unite the entire chain are ready to pay the right real value to society, and in a
Would you say Deloitte price for waste management. role that is policy focused. So
of materials and its players has the right focus on It’s a tough one, because by in all likelihood, I’ll still be at
so we can shape ideas sustainability? its very nature, ‘waste’ is no Denuo in five years. There are
Deloitte’s service offering longer valuable to us. But if still many exciting challenges Age Home town
around the use and reuse around sustainability has we don’t change our logic, ahead and Denuo can
44
Overijse
of those materials.” deepened over the years, we’ll continue exporting our evolve into an even stronger
and it’s become embedded waste, and not treating it association, with an even bigger
throughout the whole locally ourselves in Europe. impact.
organisation. I see a strong Secondly, is the business
Favorite series Favourite dish
Cheyenne & Lola, The Mandalorian, Any dish from the Lebanese cuisine
Absolutely Fabulous, Les Revenants,
DENUO
La Trêve, Unité 42, Endeavour, …
Denuo is the Belgian industry
association for private waste
management and recycling companies.
In a world where raw materials are Nr 1 on your bucket list Favourite quote:
becoming scarcer and companies Tour of Congo “Do or do not. There is no try.”
want to produce sustainably, its Yoda
300 members are the essential link
between used materials and reuse,
recycling and final processing. Between
them, they employ around 15,000
people, accounting for an annual
Best advice someone ever The song that always makes you
turnover of EUR 5 billion. gave you (and who): get up and dance:
An industry association must be I have a very eclectic music taste, from classical music
https://denuo.be progressive. Raise its members to a to techno, from Dalida to Rammstein.
higher level. As an industry association, For the moment I crank up the volume each time
you must always be one step ahead of “Love Tonight” from Shouse plays.
your members. But being two steps
ahead is also impossible. Your members
must still be able to follow you.
Dominique Michel, CEO Comeos
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A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
FOR CYCLING EVENTS
T H E UCI ROA D WO R LD C H A M PIO N S HIP S 2021 S U S TAIN A BILIT Y R E P O R T
2021 was a special year for the UCI Road World Championships. Not only did the event celebrate its 100th
anniversary here in Belgium, but the UCI partnered with Flanders and Deloitte to carry out the first-ever
in-depth analysis of the environmental and social impact of such a large-scale event.
Thanks to the creation and implementation of an Reason for celebration
ambitious sustainability plan, the centenary edition of the Dealing responsibly with the planet is central to our strategy at
UCI Road World Championships was the greenest and Deloitte, and this translates into what we do, how we behave and how
most inclusive edition ever. By capturing the achievements we treat people and the environment with respect. Supporting our
of the 2021 races, and identifying key learnings and clients in making strategically greener choices, as in the case of our
recommendations, the resulting UCI Road World partnership with the UCI, amplifies the impact we can have.
Championships 2021 Sustainability Report provides a
framework that can benefit future events worldwide. Being part of this ground-breaking initiative not only gave us the
privilege of helping shape the future of major cycling events, but it also
offered us the perfect occasion to proudly fly the Deloitte flag during
the event itself – from VIP areas, fan booths, and a Cyclo Tour of the
Leuven race circuit, to complementary bike servicing and a virtual
race, we were able to share our passion and purpose with clients and
Deloitters (past, present, and future) alike!
“This report will act as a catalyst for change,
providing future event organisers with valuable
feedback, data and benchmarks to reduce the
environmental impact – and at the same time
enhance the social impact – of their events.”
DAVID LAPPARTIENT
UCI President
UCI SUSTAINABILITY
REPORT
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BRINGING OUR
PURPOSE TO LIFE
M A KING A N IM PAC T IN CO M M U NITIE S N E A R A N D FA R
Contributing to society is a core element of our Purpose. Through various projects and activities, and
via the Deloitte Foundation, we put our energy and efforts to good use as we strive to make a positive,
enduring impact. Here are some initiatives we’ve been involved in since the previous edition of Alumni Matters.
Unlocking opportunity with CAPITAL
We’re proud to collaborate with non-
profit association CAPITAL, a ‘one-stop
source’ for young people in Brussels
who want to explore or strengthen their
opportunities on the labour market.
Sharing CAPITAL’s belief in the power of a
fair, inclusive society, we are committed to
empowering young people to build their
own futures.
Digital Shoebox Drive
Because everybody deserves a holiday gift, we
teamed up with Colruyt in December 2021 to
provide boxes of food, drinks, healthcare items
and festive surprises to the underprivileged
and homeless across Belgium. Thanks to the
generosity of our network, we were able to
offer over 1,000 shoeboxes – representing over
€36,000 – for those in need!
Virtual Walk & Run
Internet Safe & Fun Community clean-up Our virtual Walk & Run was a real win-win! Not
As part of our focus on Digital Inclusion, the Deloitte In the summer of 2021, catastrophic flooding devastated only did our Deloitters benefit from the exercise
Foundation recently teamed up with the charity Child communities, households and nature in Belgium’s Walloon and fresh air, we also raised funds for five great
Focus to help teach 10-12 year-olds about how to use the region, leaving behind a trail of waste. To bring solidarity local causes, and planted one tree in our new
internet safely. Colleagues from business units across the and helping hands to impacted areas, our Consulting, Deloitte Forest for every participant. A great
firm volunteered their time and held Internet Safe & Fun Financial Advisory and Tax & Legal teams organised a example of how working together – even virtually
workshops at various schools throughout Belgium. series of community clean-up events. – brings our purpose to life!
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COMING FULL
CIRCLE WITH …
E LLE N G L A Z E M A K E R S , B OO M E R A NG IN T H E S P OT LIG H T
Director in Tax & Legal at Deloitte, Ellen Glazemakers tells us what brought her back to
the firm after an absence of seven years. She also gives us insights on her role in the
Best Managed Companies programme.
After spending the first something that continues
15 years of your career at “Our wealth of expertise, to make me proud. Not to
Deloitte, you decided to and our ability to deliver mention the ‘can do’ attitude
pursue other challenges. that you find throughout the
What brought you back?
outstanding service is whole company. When I get a
There’s something unique something that continues tough question from a client,
about working in a consultancy to make me proud.” I never say “no, we can’t.” I say
environment, as I’m sure every “we can, just give me a day.”
Deloitte alumni will agree. It’s Which is why clients have such
challenging and rewarding in in many ways. trust in us; they know we’ll find
equal measure, and many are Which is to be expected, as a way. That Deloitte mentality
‘bitten by the bug’. Deloitte’s it’s always been a dynamic and energy stays with us even
innovative environment, the environment. I discovered when we leave, and people
breadth of projects, and being a much more diverse recognise that.
surrounded by diverse and workforce, not only in terms
passionate colleagues and of competencies, but also in
“Sometimes it’s good to
“In an organisation like Deloitte, clients were definitely among
the aspects that drew me back.
terms of personality. And that’s
something I find very positive leave and discover new
Also, my time outside Deloitte as ultimately it helps us better
there are always opportunities had broadened my skillset and serve our clients. The firm had horizons. At the same time,
deepened my understanding also evolved hugely in terms in a big organisation like
for new roles.” of servicing clients, and I had
the opportunity to integrate
of technology, both in the way
we had transformed ourselves
Deloitte, there are always
that newfound expertise in digitally, and also in our offering opportunities for new roles.”
a new role at Deloitte: within to clients. Lastly, the increased
ELLEN GLAZEMAKERS Deloitte Private I am focusing focus on sustainability stood
Director in Tax & Legal at Deloitte on bringing the wealth of our out, and of course that focus
expertise to strong private has continued to grow in recent
companies. years.
Seven years is quite a long What are some of the things
time to be gone. How did that make you most proud
Deloitte evolve in your to be a Deloitter?
absence? Our wealth of expertise,
By the time I re-joined Deloitte and our ability to deliver
in 2018, the firm had changed outstanding service is
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Alongside your role as What role does and long-term durability. framework, and striving to
Director in Tax & Legal, sustainability play in the Companies can of course be at achieve – and retain – the
you’re also a Best Managed programme? different maturities in their ESG label, companies are pushing
Companies coach. What’s Sustainability is high on journeys, so we’re looking for themselves to do better, and be
the programme all about? every company’s agenda, commitment and effort rather better.
The Best Managed Companies and rightly so. Beyond than a fixed measurement.
programme was established to being ‘the right thing to Where do you see yourself
recognise private companies do’, customer preferences What does being a Best five years from now?
operating at the highest levels are shifting towards more Managed Companies coach In some ways, that’s an
of business performance. It sustainable products, involve? And why is the easy question. Based on my
started about 30 years ago in employee expectations around coaching aspect of the track record, and on what’s
Canada and was launched in sustainability are increasing, programme so valued? important to me, I’m pretty
Belgium in 2017. Companies governments are imposing The coach plays a key role sure that I’ll be in a challenging
that want to obtain the stricter environmental in guiding and supporting environment where technical
Best Managed Companies regulations, etc. To be a Best companies through the expertise is valued, where
label are evaluated by an Managed Companies laureate, application process. We make chances are given, where the
independent jury on the four sustainability needs to be an sure they fully understand ESG focus is fully embraced,
key domains we believe set integral part of the overall the framework and together and where I’m surrounded by
high-performing companies corporate strategy, meaning with their management team, amazing people – because I
apart: strategy, capabilities, there should be a focus on we go through their practices truly believe that teamwork
commitment and financials. sustainability to unlock new to see how they align with makes the dream work.
It’s a rigorous process based opportunities for growth that framework. We share
on a global framework, our insights, reflections and
so being a Best Managed constructive criticisms. And
Companies laureate really “We share our insights, I’m always impressed at how
says a lot about a company. reflections and constructive receptive companies generally
But it’s more than just a label; are to our feedback. For some
the programme also has a
criticisms. And I’m always companies, coaching helps
community aspect that fosters impressed at how receptive them see that they’re not there
ties and encourages cross-
fertilisation between these
companies generally
are to our feedback.”
yet. And that can be really
positive too. By leveraging the UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL WITH ELLEN
high-performing companies. Best Managed Companies
Age Home town
That’s for me to know and Gent
for you to find out ;-)
Favorite series Favourite dish
Borgen, Suits Shrimp tomato
Nr 1 on your bucket list Favourite quote:
Cycling tour in Scotland “If you can dream it, you can do it!”
Best advice someone ever The song that always makes you
gave you (and who): get up and dance:
Do what you love, love what you do. Sing Hallelujah!
(family & friends)
24 25AlumniMatters | Edition 2 AlumniMatters | Edition 2
RECOGNISING BELGIAN
BUSINESS SUCCESS
A N IN T RO DUC TIO N TO T H E B E S T M A N AG E D CO M PA NIE S PROG R A M M E
Every year since 2017, Deloitte has awarded the ‘Best Managed Companies’ label to private Belgian-owned
companies that are operating at the highest levels of business performance. Discover what makes this
programme unique, why sustainability is becoming an increasingly important element, and how the benefits
of obtaining and maintaining the label go far beyond the award ceremony. Nikolaas Tahon, Best Managed Companies Lead, Virginie Claes, our host,
and Françoise Chombar, Best Managed Companies jury chairwoman.
Established in Canada in 1993, the Best Managed
Companies programme is now active in 38 countries. It NEWLY AWARDED BEST MANAGED COMPANIES 2021
applies a global framework to challenge and recognise the
overall strength of successful private companies, while These five new laureates have achieved the Best managed
coaching and recognising their leadership teams. companies mark of excellence for the first time.
• Aertssen Group • Locinox
Companies undergo a rigorous application process, and
• Belgian Pork Group • VK Architects & Engineers
are judged on core business criteria across four pillars –
• Elneo
strategy, capabilities, commitment, and financials – by an
independent jury of academics and entrepreneurs.
Connecting the best, attracting the best GOLD BEST MANAGED COMPANIES 2021
In a competitive market, obtaining an independent
and credible quality label sends a clear signal to clients The Gold label has been awarded to the six Best Managed
and employees alike – both current and future – that a Companies that have successfully retained their title for four
company is committed to its performance and growth. As consecutive years.
well as strengthening their standing and position, laureates
• CE+T Group • LVD Group
also become part of the Best Managed community, a local
• EASI • Vandersanden Group
and global network of companies that have achieved this
• E.D&A. • Vanbreda Risk & Benefits The six Best Managed Companies that received the Gold label.
mark of business success.
Members have access to year-round events such as CEO BEST MANAGED COMPANIES REQUALIFIERS 2021
roundtables, webinars, summits and networking events, as
well as the exclusive Best Managed Companies Convention Thirteen companies retain their Best Managed Companies title
and Gala, which is the premier business awards event after being recognised two or three consecutive years.
honouring and celebrating the achievements of the entire
company. • Easyfairs • Soudal Group
• EXKi • Stadsbader
www.bestmanaged.be • Golazo • Thomas & Piron
• PROVAN • Vandenbussche
• Quality by Design • Vanheede Environment
• Sack Zelfbouw Group
• Saey • Zuidnatie
Alexander De Croo, Prime Minister of Belgium Best Managed Companies 2021 laureates connect during the welcome drink event
26 27AlumniMatters | Edition 2
At Deloitte, inclusion is not a stand-alone
GLOBE:
programme but a shift in culture. Everyone
is responsible for nurturing an inclusive
culture. We are proud to be moving forward
towards a bright, diverse and inclusive
future… and that’s worth celebrating.
‘JUST BE YOURSELF’
In August 2021, a group of GLOBE members teamed
up with our long-time partner Antwerp Pride via
its ‘Roller skating under the rainbow’ initiative for
their 2021 event. Whether people were reliving
their glory days or it was their first time on skates,
it was a great way for family and friends to roll
IN C LU SIVIT Y IN M O R E IM PAC T FU L WAYS to the beats while soaking in the good vibes.
Deloitte’s LGBT+ network GLOBE was first
formed in 2007, and officially launched in Deloitte
Belgium in 2019. GLOBE supports our overall
goal of building an environment in which all our
people feel valued and accepted, whether they
identify as LGBT+ or as a supporting ally.
GLOBE, Antwerp 2021
“We want everyone to feel able to be their authentic self at
work - to have a voice, be respected, and achieve, regardless of
ethnicity, gender, sexuality or any other characteristic.”
INGE DIELS
Managing Partner Talent
28 29AlumniMatters | Edition 2
W H AT A R E W E DOING FO R SUS TAIN A BILIT Y ?
We’re committed to ensuring a greener future for our people and our planet.
Since 2017, Deloitte Belgium has been pioneering a path to a more environmentally-friendly future by setting
ambitious goals centred on four key impact areas: Mobility, International Travel, Infrastructure and Green Our Firm.
With the ultimate goal to be net zero by 2030, we created an action plan to minimise our footprint
in each impact area through green initiatives.
OU R 2021 SUS TAIN A BILIT Y R E SU LT S
CO2 emissions Fleet emissions
CO2 produced
Reduced by by company cars
65% -54%
Non-traditional
Car fleet Mobility packages
Electric and Employees that opted
hybrid vehicles for a non-traditional
mobility package
9.9%
55% Traditional
International travel Rail travel
Cutting back Business trips within
on business trips a 500 km radius
-99.6% 87%
Building emissions Paper consumption
CO2 produced Paper reduction
by buildings in our offices
021 Belgian Sustainability Report -65% -91%
2021 Belgian Sustainability Report
We’re pioneering a green path forward
Residual waste
We’re pioneering a green path forward Reduction of
nonrecyclable waste
-40% Results for FY21 compared to FY17 baseline.
Scan the QR code to read more
© 2022 Deloitte Belgium
31AlumniMatters | Edition 2 AlumniMatters | Edition 2
DELOITTE INSIGHTS
S TAY IN F O R M E D, S TAY A H E A D DATA PRIVACY: WHAT CONSUMERS THINK VS WHAT THEY DO
Although most people express concern about how their personal data is used, research suggests that this is not yet driving
consumer behaviour. With more data being shared, how can businesses act now to retain trust in the future?
Deloitte Insights brings you thought-provoking insights, analysis and perspectives on the topics that matter
most to you and your business. With articles, in-depth reports, videos, podcasts and more, generated by
Deloitte professionals that have their finger on the global pulse, it’s the ideal way to stay one step ahead.
Consumers are opting for
convenience over caution
TECH TRENDS 2022 REPORT and expect businesses to act
responsibly.
Deloitte’s 13th annual Tech Trends report provides insights into the seven key trends that are disrupting and reshaping our To read the full article, scan
business and digital landscape for the better. the QR code or check out the
Deloitte Insights app.
Want to explore the trends in detail and
engineer your tech-forward future?
To read the full report, scan the QR code or
download the Deloitte Insights app. THE GREAT RETHINK: HOW THE PANDEMIC IS RESHAPING PRIORITIES
Beyond the temporary lifestyle shifts imposed by the pandemic, people’s priorities have changed in meaningful ways that are
influencing how they spend their time and money.
BEYOND THE JOB: DEVELOPING NEW WORK MODELS
Want to understand the shifting priorities
in more depth, or access global insights
To adapt to a changing world, we need to rethink the concept of the ‘job’ and find
across 23 countries?
new ways to mobilise and coordinate human effort.
To read the full article, scan the QR code
or download the Deloitte Insights app.
Deloitte Insights App
We’re interested in hearing your
thoughts on our insights and
Download the Deloitte Insights
findings.
App to get updates on a variety
of topics to stay informed, stay
Post how you’re experiencing
connected, and make smart
these shifts via our Deloitte alumni
business decisions.
LinkedIn page and share your best
practices on navigating these trends.
Curious how your business can embrace
the future of work?
To read the full article, scan the QR code or
download the Deloitte Insights app.
32 33AlumniMatters | Edition 2
TWAIN TALKS
B RINGING PEO PLE A N D IN SIG H T S TOG E T H E R
Twain Talks are executive breakfast sessions organised
and hosted by Deloitte and Econopolis. While they used
to be held at Deloitte’s Gateway building, more recently
they have been organised virtually. But the impact
remains.
Each Twain Talk features a distinguished keynote speaker
who shares their honest insights into a burning topic, as well
as an economic update. A debate and Q&A give CEOs and
leaders the opportunity to connect and share their views with
the speakers and their peers, and actively participate in the
discussion.
In September 2021, we addressed the devastating effects of
cyber viruses. Our keynote speaker, Miguel De Bruycker, Head
of the Belgian Center for Cyber Security, and former Head
of the Belgian Defence Unit against Cyber Threats, shared
detailed examples and little-known events and facts from his
daily experience as a cybercrime fighter. While at our Twain
Talks in December 2021, we put the spotlight on inflation with
our eminent guest Geert Langenus, Macroeconomist at the
National Bank of Belgium.
Why Twain Talks?
Mark Twain, whose real name was Samuel
Langhorne Clemens, was a prolific writer and
lecturer who was known to speak his mind.
If you’re interested to participate in a future session, please send
us a mail at BeAlumni@deloitte.com
2021 Belgian Impact Report
A year of connection, action and impact
Scan the QR code to read our stories of impact.
© 2022 Deloitte Belgium
34LinkedIn group Alumni page Insights App
Be sure to join our Deloitte Belgium alumni Stay up to date! Keep abreast of what’s Leverage the latest business reports, trends
group on LinkedIn and expect more news and predictions, and in-depth industry
on events happening in 2021 and beyond. customer-centric solutions, in-house news. Reach out to ‘colleagues for life’ to dig
Become part of our extended community developments, encouraging alumni stories deeper into insights. Be part of a network of
and continue supporting and inspiring each and job postings. experts inspiring each other about the most
other as game changers. challenging issues facing our planet.
Access our LinkedIn Visit our alumni Download the Deloitte
alumni group here. page here. Insights App here.
This publication is only for distribution and use among the alumni of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited, its member firms.
and their related entities (collectively, the “Deloitte Network’’). None of the Deloitte Network shall be responsible for any loss
whatsoever sustained by any person who relies on this publication.
Deloitte refers to one or more of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limted, a UK private company limited by guarantee, and its
network of member firms. each of which is a legally separate and independent entity. Please see www.deloitte.com/ about
detailed description of the legal structure of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited and its member firms. In Belgium, the
law firm Deloitte Legal (Deloitte Legal - Lawyers CVBA) and Deloitte Belastingconsulenten CVBA entered into a privileged
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