Daily management is in the hands of:
Peter Schelkens (Innovation&Valorisation), Pieter Ballon (Research), Jan Danckaert (Rector), Sofie De Kimpe (Education&Student Affairs) and Wim Vandenbussche (Internationalisation)
General Manager
Nic Van Craen is the General Manager of the VUB. He is responsible for the university’s overall administrative, logistical and financial management, ensuring strong support for teaching, research and service. He also monitors political, social and ethical developments closely, so the university can respond swiftly and appropriately to emerging challenges. In serious emergencies or crises, he acts as Chair of the Crisis Management Team (CMT).
Portfolio holders
The five appointed portfolio holders s each take on a specific assignment within a key strategic area:
- Prof. Dr Cathy Macharis is appointed lead for Sustainability. She will develop and coordinate an integrated sustainability policy, with a focus on education, research, campus operations and societal impact. Cathy Macharis on PURE
- Prof. Dr Dominique Maes is appointed lead for Health Valley. She will coordinate the development of an integrated ecosystem around healthcare, education, research, innovation and entrepreneurship on and around the VUB Health Campus (Jette and Zellik). Dominique Maes on PURE
- Prof. Dr Caroline Buts is appointed lead for Student Affairs. She will continue to develop a coherent and future-oriented student policy, with particular attention to wellbeing, academic success and the campus experience. Caroline Buts on PURE
- Prof. Dr Vincent Ginis is appointed lead for Artificial Intelligence. He will develop and coordinate the university-wide AI strategy to further strengthen VUB’s digital transformation, with a focus on innovation, efficiency and the responsible use of AI. Vincent Ginis on PURE
- Prof. Dr Thomas Crispeels is appointed lead for Entrepreneurship. He will continue to embed entrepreneurship in education and research and strengthen the VUB ecosystem for start-ups and innovation. Thomas Crispeels on PURE
They support the Rectorate in developing and implementing university policy, working closely with vice-rectors, services and faculties. Their mandate is for two years, with the possibility of renewal.
