From a Small Room to 9,000 Employees: “Cegeka’s” 30-Year Journey Built by Knaepen
André Knaepen, the founder and chairman of the Belgian “Cegeka” Group, successfully transformed a modest investment over three decades ago into one of Europe’s most successful IT outsourcing companies.
Knaepen’s story began in 1992 when he decided to invest his personal savings to acquire the software division of the original “Cegeka,” which was part of economic restructuring efforts following the closure of coal mines in the Belgian Kempen region.
Since then, Knaepen has steadily developed the company, grounded in his vision that combines technological innovation with a philosophy of close collaboration with clients.
Under his leadership, “Cegeka” grew from a startup with fewer than 30 employees to a massive group that today employs over 9,000 people and operates in more than 20 countries worldwide.
In 2019, Knaepen announced his retirement from the position of CEO, handing over the leadership to Stijn Bijnens, but he retained his role as chairman of the board, continuing to oversee the overall strategic vision.
He has received widespread recognition for his career, including the “Gulden Spoor” award in 2024 in recognition of his outstanding economic contributions.
Despite his partial retirement, Knaepen continued to invest in innovative companies, most notably his investment at the end of 2024 in Secury360, a company specializing in smart security technologies powered by artificial intelligence, reflecting his continued commitment to supporting modern technology.
André Knaepen’s journey embodies a true story of entrepreneurship based on perseverance, investing in people, and continuous development.
His vision continues to inspire entrepreneurs in the technology sector within Europe and beyond, reinforced by the principle that long-term success always begins with understanding customer needs and innovating for a smarter and more sustainable future.
