Meet Centexbel’s New General Manager
Centexbel is pleased to announce the appointment of Pol Lombaert as its new General Manager, effective September 1st.
Pol (°1977) brings over two decades of experience in research, development, and innovation across various industries. He holds a PhD in Chemistry from Ghent University and began his career in academic research before moving into industrial roles. Over the years, he has contributed to a wide range of innovation projects, most recently at Beaulieu International Group (BIG), where he has been involved in leading innovation efforts and supporting the development of new business initiatives.
Throughout his career, Pol has worked on building innovation strategies, supporting product development, and guiding teams through complex technical challenges. He has also been involved in mentoring colleagues and helping shape collaborative environments that foster growth and learning.
His experience with the organization and its mission provides a strong foundation for this new role.
The Centexbel team warmly welcomes Pol Lombaert and looks forward to working together in the coming years.
We now give the floor to Pol!
I’ve been working with Centexbel since 2007. First as a customer, later on much more in depth when B.I.G. operated a pilot line at Centexbel in Kortrijk. And even more in depth as board member and chairman. The constant factor in all my interactions with Centexbel? Highly skilled people with great knowledge and a mindset of ‘doing better every day for the industry’. Centexbel has grown a lot over the last years, I believe there is even more potential. By being excellent in every aspect of what we do, by serving the industry, by being open to change, we’ll be able to let Centexbel grow further. Let’s make it happen together, I’m there to support you in achieving this.
I love enjoying life with my wife and daughter — in the little things like good food, going out together, and especially sharing our passion for basketball. My daughter plays for LDP Donza, where I’m also involved as a board member, handling finance and legal matters. It keeps me grounded. On the fun side, I’m also the game speaker, atmosphere creator, and DJ — mostly just playing upbeat music to energize the crowd.
Some of the most heartwarming moments come when we organize events like the visit of Saint Nicholas, where great storytelling and smooth organization bring smiles to children's faces.
In my free time, I enjoy concerts — with bands like Amenra, Nightwish, Moonspell, and Metallica among my favorites. I also appreciate artists like Merol, Elmer, Clouseau, and Pommelien Thijs — I have a broad taste, as long as the quality is there. The same goes for art: I make time to visit museums or seek out specific works while traveling. Nothing beats seeing the original.
