Belgium’s Managers of the Year Signal a Shift Towards Proactive Resilience
A 60% stock price surge isn’t luck. It’s the result of strategic foresight and a willingness to embrace transformative change. The 2026 “Trends Manager of the Year” awards, presented to Fabrice Brion of I‑which and Hans De Cuyper of Ageas, aren’t just accolades for past performance; they’re indicators of the leadership qualities that will define success in an increasingly volatile global economy. These awards highlight a crucial pivot: from reactive problem-solving to proactive resilience, and a focus on long-term, sustainable growth.
The Rise of Predictive Intelligence in Industry
Fabrice Brion’s success with I‑which, a world leader in industrial predictive maintenance, exemplifies this shift. His company doesn’t just fix machines when they break; it anticipates failures, minimizing downtime and maximizing efficiency. This isn’t a new concept, but Brion’s 30% annual growth, fueled by the SDT International takeover and a new factory launch, demonstrates its accelerating adoption. The key? Combining cutting-edge technology with a commitment to his 1,000 employees. Brion’s “human leadership” – a term often overused – is demonstrably effective, fostering innovation and attracting top talent.
This trend extends far beyond manufacturing. Predictive analytics, powered by AI and machine learning, are becoming essential across sectors, from logistics and energy to healthcare and finance. Companies that invest in these capabilities will gain a significant competitive advantage, able to optimize operations, reduce costs, and respond rapidly to changing market conditions. Consider the potential for predictive maintenance in infrastructure – preventing bridge collapses or power grid failures before they occur. The economic and societal benefits are immense.
Insurance Adapts to a World of Constant Change
Hans De Cuyper’s leadership at Ageas showcases a different facet of proactive resilience: strategic diversification and financial strength. The acquisitions of esure and the full integration of AG Insurance weren’t simply about increasing market share; they were about building a more robust and adaptable organization. In an era of climate change, geopolitical instability, and evolving risk profiles, insurance companies must be able to withstand shocks and anticipate future challenges.
De Cuyper’s success also underscores the importance of shareholder value. A 136% total shareholder return is a powerful testament to effective leadership and sound financial management. However, this isn’t solely about short-term profits. Sustainable shareholder value requires a long-term vision, a commitment to responsible investing, and a willingness to adapt to changing stakeholder expectations. The integration of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors into investment decisions is no longer optional; it’s a necessity.
The Convergence of Tech and Traditional Sectors
What connects these two seemingly disparate success stories? A common thread of embracing technology to enhance core competencies and build resilience. I‑which isn’t just a tech company; it’s a provider of solutions that improve the performance of traditional industries. Ageas isn’t just an insurance company; it’s a financial services provider leveraging data analytics and digital technologies to better serve its customers. This convergence of tech and traditional sectors is a defining characteristic of the modern economy.
This trend is further amplified by the increasing availability of data and the decreasing cost of computing power. Cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things (IoT) are democratizing access to these technologies, enabling even small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to compete with larger players. However, access to technology is only one piece of the puzzle. Companies also need the skills and expertise to effectively utilize these tools.
Looking Ahead: The Skills Gap and the Future of Leadership
The success of Brion and De Cuyper highlights a growing concern: the skills gap. Belgium, like many developed nations, faces a shortage of qualified professionals in areas such as data science, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. Addressing this gap requires a concerted effort from governments, educational institutions, and businesses. Investing in STEM education, promoting lifelong learning, and fostering collaboration between academia and industry are all crucial steps.
Furthermore, the future of leadership will demand a new set of skills. Traditional command-and-control management styles are giving way to more collaborative and agile approaches. Leaders must be able to inspire and empower their teams, foster innovation, and navigate complexity. Emotional intelligence, critical thinking, and adaptability will be essential qualities. The “human leadership” demonstrated by Fabrice Brion is a model for the future.
The 2026 Trends Manager of the Year awards aren’t just about celebrating individual achievements; they’re about recognizing the qualities and strategies that will be essential for success in the years to come. Proactive resilience, strategic diversification, and a commitment to innovation are no longer optional – they’re imperatives. What steps is your organization taking to build a more resilient and adaptable future? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
