Stéphanie Rutten appointed new CEO of AmCham Belgium

Brussels, March 10, 2022 – The American Chamber of Commerce in Belgium (AmCham Belgium) has appointed Stéphanie Rutten as its new Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Marcel Claes after almost 18 years. She will take up her responsibilities on May 2 of this year.

“With her strong experience in government relations and her robust network, Stéphanie will help to further raise the profile and impact of our association in the public debate,” said Philip Alliet, President of AmCham Belgium. “She shares our ambition to strengthen Belgium’s attractiveness for foreign direct investment.”

Stéphanie Rutten started her career in corporate law and M&A at Linklaters, a leading international law firm in Brussels. After a decade, she left the legal practice in 2005 to become an advisor to H.R.H. Princess Astrid, in her capacity as President of the Belgian Red Cross, and joined the Permanent Representation of Belgium to the EU in 2010.

As Partner at Whyte Corporate Affairs, a leading Belgian consultancy specialized in corporate affairs, Ms. Rutten has provided strategic advice in public affairs and corporate communications for the past ten years. She has a strong affinity with the international business community, especially with US multinationals, and a wide network of relations with Belgian policymakers and professional associations.

“I am excited to lead the talented team at AmCham Belgium and serve our community of more than 400 member companies. With the profound changes in our economy and society, I look forward to bringing my experience to the Chamber to help build and foster strong connections between the business community and policymakers to strive for a competitive and prosperous Belgium,” said Stéphanie Rutten.

“I look back with pride on my time at AmCham Belgium, and I am confident that the Chamber will continue to thrive in Stéphanie’s capable hands,” said Marcel Claes, outgoing Chief Executive.

Stéphanie Rutten, a Belgian national, has also lived and studied in the US. She completed a Master’s in Laws degree (LL.M. ‘99) at Columbia University in New York.

In her new role as CEO of AmCham Belgium, Ms. Rutten will be taking part in the upcoming Belgian Economic Mission to the US.

About AmCham Belgium

The American Chamber of Commerce in Belgium (AmCham Belgium) is a dynamic non-profit organization dedicated to improving business and investment opportunities for the US-Belgian business community. Supported by around 400 member companies, AmCham Belgium plays a pivotal role in an evolving business environment by focusing on three key areas: advocacy, networking and knowledge-sharing. To learn more about AmCham Belgium, visit www.amcham.be