BE-CEC 2025 Q3
Belgium’s Cybersecurity Executives Conference
Thursday September 11, 2025: 13:00 - 21:00 h
in Dolce La Hulpe
200+ CIOs, CISOs and other IT Executives in Belgium
Interactive Presentations
Networking reception & walking dinner & entertainment
BE-CEC 2025 Q3, Belgium’s Cybersecurity Executives Conference
BE-CEC brings together Belgium's top cybersecurity executives, CIOs, CISOs, infrastructure managers, etc. for an exclusive, invitation-only conference. The second gathering is scheduled for September 11, 2025, from 1 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., at Dolce La Hulpe, is designed to foster strategic discussions, insights, and collaborative efforts among the leaders responsible for safeguarding Belgium’s digital landscape.
Purpose
- The conference will provide a platform for C-level executives to discuss the latest cybersecurity challenges, share best practices, and explore innovative solutions that enhance organisational resilience against evolving cyber threats. With a focus on executive-level concerns, BE-CEC 2025 aims to inspire and connect.
Agenda Highlights
- Inspiring presentations
- Networking with over 200 cybersecurity executives.
- A lively reception and walking dinner that will transport you to the heart of the Maghreb
Who Should Attend?
- This event is exclusively for Belgium’s senior cybersecurity and IT leaders: CIOs, CISOs, Infrastructure Managers, Cyber Program Managers, Lead Architects and Senior Cyber Experts.
- This event is not for consultants, advisors, board members, coaches, representatives (except for selected sponsors)
AGENDA
13:00 - 14:00 Registrations & Welcome Reception
14:00 - 15:00 Keynote Presentations
Dirk Beynaerts
CISO at Colruyt Group
Dirk Beynaerts previously held leadership roles at Acerta, Verizon and IBM, where he led security services across the Benelux region. Known for his strong expertise in enterprise security, Dirk is also active in the broader cybersecurity community in Belgium.
Building Cyber Resilience in Retail
Dirk Beynaerts will discuss how Colruyt Group balances security, business agility, and innovation, the critical role of collaboration across IT and security teams, and how to prepare for the future through continuous risk management and incident readiness.
Real-world lessons and strategic takeaways will offer valuable perspectives for both CIOs and CISOs navigating similar challenges.
Johan Kestens
Experienced CIO and CISO
Johan is an award-winning public speaker, who has amongst others been CISO of Bank of New York Mellon, CIO of BNY Mellon European Bank, CIO of ING Belgium, Partner at A.T. Kearney, Member of the Executive Committee at SWIFT and Principal at McKinsey.
Hacking the Future
Step into a time machine and fast-forward to 2030! What does cybersecurity look like in a world of AI-driven threats, quantum encryption, and autonomous digital defence?
Johan will try to unveil the future of cybersecurity. What’s coming, what’s at risk, and must how organisations evolve to stay ahead?
15:00 - 15:30 Break
15:30 - 16:30 Panel Interview
Interview of experienced CISOs, focusing on their daily responsibilities and key lessons learned in the field of cybersecurity. If you want to be inspired by how others do it and challenge the way of working in your own organisation, don't miss this opportunity.
Pascal D'Eer
Chief Risk Officer (CRO) at the Belgian Federal Police
The Belgian Federal Police carries out specialised and supra-local administrative and judicial police operations and supports both local and federal police services and units
Adrian Geismaier
CISO at Galapagos
Galapagos is a biotechnology company headquartered in Mechelen, specializing in the discovery and development of small molecule medicines.
Timothy De Ben
ICT Infrastructure Manager & CISO at DPD Belux
DPD Belux provides parcel delivery and e-commerce solutions within the Benelux region and is a key player in the European parcel delivery market.
Philippe Cornette
CISO at John Cockerill
John Cockerill is a manufacturing company that produces machinery for steel plants, industrial heat recovery equipment and boilers, as well as locomotives and military equipment.
16:30 - 17:00 Break
17:00 - 18:00 Facts & Figures
Show me the data
How bad is the cyber threat landscape? Let the numbers do the talking!
In this high-stakes challenge, our sponsors will each bring one compelling statistic or trend to the table and then discuss its significance, impact, and implications for cybersecurity leaders.
From skyrocketing ransomware payouts to AI-powered cyber threats, from the true cost of a breach to the road for NIS2 compliance, this session is all about statistics.
Is your cybersecurity strategy ready for what the numbers reveal? Join us and find out!
18:00 - 21:00 Oriental buffet and networking
A feast for the senses – are you ready?
Step into a world of rich flavors and exotic spices. Let the aroma of slow-cooked tagines and freshly baked khobz transport you to the heart of the Maghreb. Savor a feast of North African delights, from tender lamb and saffron-infused couscous to the sweet indulgence of honey-drenched pastries.
Dolce La Hulpe
Dolce La Hulpe Brussels, nestled in the Sonian Forest, is a premier destination for business and leisure. Originally an IBM education center, it was transformed into a 4-star conference venue. Boasting 4,500 m² of state-of-the-art meeting space and cutting-edge technology, it ensures a seamless event experience. Guests can enjoy luxury at the Cinq Mondes Spa, a pool, fitness center, fine dining, and 264 elegant rooms. With comfort, professionalism, and tranquility, Dolce La Hulpe Brussels is the ideal setting for productive meetings, conferences, and seminars.
