Gert de Winter, global CEO of Swiss insurance group Balois, has announced that he has cancer and is retiring from day management.
The 56-year-old from Antwerp belongs to a select club of Belgian managers who have risen to the position of CEO of a foreign multinational. He has been leading the Baloise Group since 2016, having previously headed the Belgian branch.
The Swiss insurance group, which is active in Switzerland, Germany, Belgium and Luxembourg, said in a press release that Geert de Winter will now operate on a shortened schedule and “withdraw from the front line, possibly until the summer of 2022,” so he can focus on treating cancer.
“A tumor was discovered in his esophagus that required medical treatment. The prognosis for recovery from pre- and post-operative treatments and surgery is good.”
strategic issues
Michael Muller, CEO of Baloise Switzerland, handles the day-to-day management of the group. De Winter will continue to oversee strategic matters.
“We are optimistic that Geert will be able to work full time again later in the year. Chairman Thomas von Planta said the entire Balois family wish him a full recovery and wish him well in his treatment.
(MAh)
Zombie specialist. Friendly twitter guru. Internet buff. Organizer. Coffee trailblazer. Lifelong problem solver. Certified travel enthusiast. Alcohol geek.