Leen started her career at D'hondt Insurance in Bruges about 15 years ago. “I was brought in as an administrative assistant, but my range of tasks has expanded over the years. I was always interested in this myself, I like variety and the interaction with customers and suppliers. I have worked in most departments. In recent years I have also been part of the management of our company, alongside Kurt and two other board members.”
Manager Kurt D'hondt saw Leen as an ideal successor to take over the day-to-day management of the company.
Kurt was able to bring in an external CEO, but he chose to look for a successor within his own company. “We do that here as much as possible: let our own people grow if they want to and have the capabilities. I see the fact that Leen has such a rich career within our company as a great advantage. She knows the company and the insurance industry inside and out, and she is not a new face to the customers either. Her profile is also ideal: she has strong managerial qualities, enormous professional knowledge, strong communication skills and great empathy.”