Graduate, University of Ghent, Belgium and Harvard Law School. Started career as a lawyer, Linklaters law firm, Belgium. 1985, started career at Procter & Gamble, initially as General Counsel, Belgium. Assumed several leadership roles at P&G with both regional and global responsibility for public affairs, regulatory affairs and communications. 2008-12, Vice-President, external relations for Asia, P&G, Singapore. Then moved to the automobile industry. Since 2013, Secretary-General, ACEA. Has had several leadership roles in a wide range of industry associations, including Business Europe, the European Cosmetics Industry, the European and American Chamber of Commerce. Former President, European Centre for Public Affairs. Recognized as public affairs in-house professional of the year in Europe (2008).