Industry on Stage: From Electrification to Decarbonisation
Lowering emissions through electrification: that is the central theme of Industry On Stage. This ninth edition brings you together with CEOs and thought leaders to discuss a burning topic in the industry.
Reducing carbon emissions is a top priority. In 2026, Industry On Stage introduces a new benchmark, providing insights into electrification and decarbonization.
Beyond just decarbonization, the energy transition also offers significant opportunities for innovation. From strengthening our competitiveness to building a robust energy system and developing new cluster strategies: Industry On Stage highlights the possibilities.
We are honored to welcome Christian Kullmann, CEO of Evonik, to Antwerp for the opening keynote. The program also features industry leaders Vincent Verbeke (CEO of ENGIE) and Jean-Philippe Michaux (CFO of Puratos), representing two essential sectors of our economy. A panel of top experts, including Tom Aelbrecht (COO, J&J Innovative Medicine), Leen Govaerts (Director, VITO), and Umicore’s ESG leadership, will explore the impact of cluster strategies. To conclude, Wim Michiels, CEO of Proviron and chair of the industry forum, will share the findings of our latest benchmark study.
Programme
15:00 Guest welcome
15:30 Welcome word
- Luc Luwel, Managing Director of Voka - Chamber of Commerce Antwerp-Waasland
15:35 The energy transition as a catalyst for industrial innovation and competitiveness
- Christian Kullmann, chairman of the executive board - Evonik
16:00 Flexibility and grid integration: keys to a robust industrial energy system
- Vincent Verbeke, CEO Belgium & chief revenues & strategy officer - ENGIE
16:20 Panel discussion: The power of clusters with smart strategies: local networks, internal dynamics, and collaboration
- Tom Aelbrecht, COO Belgium & head of strategic partnerships - J&J Innovative Medicine
- Leen Govaerts, director water & energy transition - VITO
- Peter Zadora, director ESG acceleration & business - Umicore
16:50 Strategic energy transition: harmonizing financial and sustainability goals
- Jean-Philippe Michaux, chief finance, legal, ICT & sustainability officer - Puratos
17:10 Recap & launch of benchmark study results Electrify to decarbonize
- Wim Michiels, CEO - Proviron
17:30 Networking
19:00 End of the conference
Audience
C-level executives and decision-makers from industrial companies in Antwerp-Waasland.
Please note that this event will be held in Dutch.