I strongly believe in free enterprise and family capitalism. Strong bonds in the family and common aspirations are the bedrocks of the continuity of values-driven family enterprises.

Nicolas advises families in the fields of shareholder strategy, governance, alignment and conflict management, executive transition & succession planning, and structured family talent development.

He has published articles on working with non-family executives, family talent development, owner engagement metrics, and more in the field of corporate governance.

Previously, Nicolas was a member of the Owners Council of two industrial groups, governing the affairs of nearly 350 descendants, as well as Chairman of the family holding company of a 4bio international minerals group.

Nicolas was earlier CHRO of Delhaize Group, a listed family company employing over 150.000 people and operating food supermarkets in North America, Europe and Asia. 

Before that, he worked with Egon Zehnder, where he assisted several large family companies in matters of executive leadership transitions, and independent board staffing.

Earlier in his career, he was Managing Director with Maroquinerie Delvaux, a family-owned company that manufactures luxury leather goods and accessories sold in Europe, Japan and the USA. 

He started his professional life as an attorney in Brussels, and a part time assistant professor in corporate law at the University of Leuven.

He is currently an Adjunct Lecturer at the Kellogg Center for Family Enterprises.

Nicolas is a happy father of five, and grandfather of seven more. He has a passion for classic car restoration and fine craftmanship.