1. Hello!
      My Name is
      Gert-Jan Andries

      Meet Gert-Jan Andries, an accomplished Innovation, Transformation and IT Manager with a deep passion for user and employee experience. With extensive experience in leading diverse projects to complete complex challenges, Gert-Jan exemplifies performance-driven excellence in his field.

  2. about me

    Name: Gert-Jan Andries
    Email: info@gertjanandries.com
    Nationality: Belgian
    Download Resume

    my story

    Hello

    I am Gert-Jan, an accomplished professional specializing in Innovation, Transformation, and IT Management, deeply passionate about enhancing both user and employee experiences.

    In my current role at Q8, I apply my extensive experience to advance our (payment) infrastructure, spearheading initiatives that position Q8 at the cutting edge of the mobility industry centralized around customer and employee experience.

    Previously at Worldline, I played a pivotal role in establishing the 'Worldline Innovation & Experience Centres.' This innovative 'PhyGital' initiative revolutionized how our sales teams interact with customers, driving forward-thinking interactions. I was also actively involved in the 'e-Payments Challenge Organization,' fostering collaborations between FinTech experts and Worldline's innovative products, which accelerated the development of e-payment solutions.

    As a member of the 'World Scientific Community,' I contributed significantly by generating insightful content, conducting customer innovation workshops, and developing proofs-of-concept for the 'WSC.' This initiative was aimed at enhancing skill sets within our workforce and empowering our customers in their business endeavors.

    During the COVID-19 pandemic, I spearheaded the 'Worldline Studio' project, creating a dynamic network that facilitated modern digital communication with customers and colleagues alike, maintaining connectivity in challenging times.

    Education and continuous learning are passions of mine. I hold a Master's degree in Electronics-ICT from KU Leuven University and a Bachelor's degree in Aeronautical Sciences from De Katholieke Hogeschool Brugge-Oostende (VIVES). Beyond my professional life, I am an avid sailplane pilot and instructor, sailor, music enthusiast, traveler, cyclist, and enjoy socializing in various settings.

    1. skills

      Life is about creating and living experiences that are worth sharing

      Innovator-by-design

      I have a deep passion for education and lifelong learning. My academic background includes a Master's degree in Electronics-ICT obtained from KU Leuven University and a Bachelor's degree in Aeronautical Sciences from De Katholieke Hogeschool Brugge-Oostende (VIVES). Additionally, I have enhanced my knowledge in digital transformation at Vlerick Business School and pursued Data Science at Passue University. Outside of my professional pursuits, I am enthusiastically engaged in sailplane piloting and instruction.

      View My Skills

    2. Innovation

      In my professional journey, I have consistently demonstrated a strong aptitude for innovation. This skill is rooted in my ability to think creatively, challenge conventional approaches, and embrace new ideas. My approach to innovation is multifaceted: it involves keenly observing market trends, understanding emerging technologies, and applying this knowledge to develop novel solutions that drive progress and efficiency. I excel in environments that require out-of-the-box thinking and a proactive approach to problem-solving. My track record includes leading successful projects that broke new ground in their respective fields and delivered tangible, forward-thinking results. This capability is underpinned by a continuous pursuit of knowledge and an unwavering commitment to staying ahead of the curve in an ever-evolving technological landscape.

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      Leadership

      My leadership style is deeply rooted in a philosophy of collective ownership and being an integral part of the team, rather than positioning myself above it. This approach is complemented by my strong problem-solving abilities and strategic thinking. I lead from within the team, fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment where every voice is valued and their contributions recognized. My commitment to motivational leadership involves inspiring and uplifting the team through challenges, turning obstacles into opportunities for growth and innovation.

      As a natural problem solver, I approach complex challenges with a calm and analytical mindset, encouraging my team to do the same. This facilitates an atmosphere where creative solutions are born from collaborative efforts. My strategic abilities play a pivotal role in guiding the team not just towards immediate goals, but in aligning our efforts with long-term visions and objectives.

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      Communication

      My proficiency in communication is one of my core strengths, highlighted by my extensive experience in delivering keynotes at both public events and internal company meetings. This skill extends beyond mere public speaking; it encompasses the ability to distill complex technical subjects into clear, understandable language that resonates with diverse audiences. My approach to communication is rooted in clarity, engagement, and adaptability, ensuring that my message is not only heard but also comprehended and appreciated by everyone, regardless of their technical background.

      Whether addressing a large audience at a conference or conducting an internal team meeting, my goal is always to communicate in a way that is both informative and engaging. This has enabled me to effectively lead teams, drive projects, and share knowledge, thereby contributing significantly to the growth and success of my organization.

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    3. (Glider) Pilot and Instructor

      As a glider pilot and instructor, I am deeply passionate about soaring through the skies, imparting skills and knowledge in the art of gliding with dedicated expertise and enthusiasm.

      Sailing and Watersports

      My engagement in sailing and watersku reflects a profound love for the sea, where I avidly participate in a variety of aquatic activities, embracing the thrill and serenity they offer.

      Continuous Reading and Learning

      I am steadfastly devoted to continuous reading and learning, always seeking new knowledge and perspectives through books, seminars, and diverse educational experiences, enriching both my personal and professional life.

      Travel and Discovery

      Travel and discovery are my avenues for adventure, where I enthusiastically embrace the excitement of exploring new cultures, landscapes, and experiences, enriching my understanding of the world.

      Languages:
      Dutch: Native - English: Professional working proficiency
      Technology:
      My expertise encompasses a deep understanding of IT Security, Networks, and Programming Concepts, equipping me with a comprehensive grasp of the technical landscape essential for safeguarding digital assets and optimizing system performance.
      Communication and Negotiation:
      Proficiency in articulating ideas clearly and persuasively, both in Dutch and English. This includes negotiating effectively, resolving conflicts, and ensuring that communication is tailored to various audiences for maximum impact and understanding.
      Analytical and Critical Thinking
      The ability to dissect complex problems, analyze data effectively, and make informed decisions. This skill is crucial for strategic planning and problem-solving, ensuring that decisions are not only impactful but also data-driven and analytically sound.

  4. education

    Education is not Preparation
    For Life, Education is Life Itself.

    Education is not the learning of facts, but the training of the mind to think. Education is a gift that none can take away. I am still learning every day.

    • 01.

      Vlerick Business School (Belgium)

      Digital Leadership and Digital Transformation
      2022 - 2022
    • 02.

      University Of Passau (Germany)

      Data Sciences
      2017 - 2017
    • 03.

      KU Leuven University (Belgium)

      Master of Science Electronics ICT
      2013 - 2015
    • 04.

      Katholieke Hogeschool Brugge-Oostende (Belgium)

      Aeronautical Sciences
      2010 - 2013

  5. employment

    • 2023 - Present

      Q8 - Senior Business Manager IT Infrastructure and Payments

      Responsible for all (Payment) IT Infrastructure across Europe and managing various innovation streams in mobility.
    • 2021 - 2022

      Worldline Global - Innovation and Transformation Manager

      Responsible and managing variois global innovation and transformation projects. Creater of a theme park in the office.
    • 2019 - 2021

      Worldline Global - Head of Retail Transformation

      I Optimize the customer journey through strategic market management, collaborative sales tool development, and aligning product and business visions.
    • 2018 - 2019

      Worldline Global - Customer Innovation Manager

      I led innovation by bridging product managers and clients, organizing workshops, managing projects, and developing prototypes to future-proof products and explore new business opportunities.
    • 2016 - 2018

      Worldline Global - Functional Analyst and Developer

      In my role, I developed security algorithms and functionalities for ADYTON, a Host Security Module (HSM) designed for key protection and high-speed cryptographic operations, and managed the team's server, test park, development tools, and release toolchain.
    • 2015 - 2016

      ING Bank - Junior IT Professional Financial Markets

      At ING, a global financial institution, I worked in the equity derivatives department as a DevOps engineer, managing the availability of trading applications worldwide and developing integrated continuous delivery systems and tools for support teams.

    The only way to do great work is to love what you do.

    1. portfolio

      Things I've Worked On.

      Throughout my career, I have been deeply involved in a multitude of projects and programs, each underpinned by a strong connection to IT, technology, innovation, and transformation. My journey has been marked by diverse experiences ranging from groundbreaking technology initiatives to transformative projects that have reshaped business landscapes. This extensive involvement has not only honed my expertise in various domains but also underscored my commitment to driving innovation and embracing change. The following pages showcase a selection of these projects, reflecting the breadth and depth of my work. Each project represents a unique story of challenges, learning, and success, illustrating my continuous pursuit of excellence in the ever-evolving world of technology and digital transformation.

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    2. Portfolio

      Worldline Innovation And Experience Centre

      A themepark in an office buidking (2021 - 2022)

      A theme park in an office building - The Innovation & Experience Centre (IEC) at Worldline HQ in Paris is a 550 sqm. high-tech space designed to showcase the future of payments and Worldline's cutting-edge innovations. Aimed at fostering co-innovation and transformation, the IEC provides immersive, real-life demonstrations of evolving payment solutions, focusing on seamless intuitive, and interactive customer experiences across all channels.

      In this project, I embraced a comprehensive leadership role, overseeing the initiIative from inception to fruition. My involvement spanned the entire spectrum of the project lifecycle, beginning with the origination of the idea. I was instrumental in conceptualizing the vision and setting the strategic direction, ensuring that the project aligned with our overarching goals, strategy and values.

      As the project progressed, I took on the responsibility of quality assurance, diligently overseeing every aspect to maintain high standards. My focus was not only on the technical excellence but also on ensuring that the output resonated with our intended objectives and audience.

      Execution was a critical phase where my role expanded to managing diverse teams. I effectively coordinated the efforts of various departments, integrating their contributions into a cohesive whole. This required not only managerial acumen but also a deep understanding of each team's strengths and challenges.

      My leadership was characterized by a hands-on approach, where I was actively involved in bringing all the pieces together. This included problem-solving on the fly, adapting strategies as needed, and ensuring seamless collaboration amongst teams. The success of the project was a testament to the effective orchestration of resources, ideas, and people, underpinned by a clear vision and steadfast leadership from start to finish.

      Worldline Scientific Community

      Founder, member and author

      As a co-founder, I played a pivotal role in establishing the Worldline Scientific Community, now known as the Discovery Hub, in the aftermath of the Atos/Worldline carve-out. This elite group, representing approximately 0.2% of the total workforce, is a diverse blend of highly respected technology and business experts from across the organization, recognized by peers and clients alike for their expertise.

      My involvement with the Worldline Scientific Community was multifaceted. I actively participated in various innovation workshops, including managing the international innovation workshop program as part of the sales transformation. My contributions extended to enhancing product development and authoring insightful thought leadership articles and whitepapers, with a particular focus on payments and digital inclusion.

      The Discovery Hub, as it stands today, is a testament to our collaborative efforts. It is a space where members converge to produce thought-provoking publications for the group, stimulate client innovation through workshops, and develop proofs-of-concept that offer a glimpse into the future. My role in this endeavor has been integral to its success, demonstrating my commitment to innovation and leadership in the tech industry.

      e-Payments Challenge

      Driver of the program

      The e-Payments Challenge, pioneered as a co-creation programme by Worldline, stands as a testament to Wprldline's commitment to innovation and collaboration in the digital payments arena. As an annual collaborative forum, this event brings together our esteemed customers, fintech startups, and emerging talents in a dynamic environment focused on addressing today's challenges. The primary goal is to significantly accelerate the process of transforming innovative ideas into market-ready solutions, effectively shortening the innovation-to-market cycle.

      In this program, my role has been pivotal in facilitating critical connections between fintechs, customers, and Worldline's product offerings. I took on the responsibility of ensuring seamless communication and alignment between our internal product managers and the participating fintech companies. This involved not only overseeing the collaborative efforts but also ensuring that the innovations developed were in sync with our product capabilities and market needs.

      As a co-inventor of the e-Payments Challenge, my vision was to foster a space of co-innovation, where we could work hand-in-hand with our customers to not only understand their needs but also actively involve them in the creation of solutions. This program reflects a blend of my passion for technological innovation and a deep understanding of the digital payments landscape, showcasing my commitment to driving progress and delivering value to our customers and the broader fintech community.

    1. publications

      Focused on the Essence

      Throughout my publication journey, I have dedicated myself to producing a diverse array of works, primarily focusing on technology and strategic foresight. In exploring various facets of technology and its future trajectory, my publications reflect a commitment to insightful analysis and forward-thinking perspectives. Each piece is a testament to my dedication to understanding and shaping the future, offering readers a thoughtful exploration of what lies ahead in the ever-evolving (technological) landscape.

    2. The world after COVID-19

      Published in 2020 by Worldline - Co-author

      In this insightful publication, where I served as one of the lead co-authors, we meticulously analyzed the immediate and lasting impacts of the recent crisis on various industries and consumer behaviors. The study reveals a significant shift towards digitization, highlighting the rapid increase in online retail, the acceleration of cashless transactions, and the emergence of omnichannel strategies. More crucially, the publication delves into the enduring impacts, ranging from evolving attitudes towards environmental sustainability and data privacy to the necessary adaptation of supply chains and refined cost-management strategies. By comprehensively understanding these long-term effects, our research provides a strategic roadmap, outlining which technologies will gain prominence and offering guidance on how organizations can proactively adapt their strategies to stay ahead in this transformed landscape. This work not only offers a clear view of the current changes but also serves as a forward-looking guide for navigating the post-crisis world.

      Download the publication

      Navigating Digital Payments

      Published in 2021 by Worldline - Co-author

      In this comprehensive report, where I proudly contributed as a co-author, we present a forward-looking vision of the payment landscape in 2030. The report addresses the challenge of balancing the increasing complexity of payment systems with consumers' expectations for effortless and seamless shopping experiences. We highlight the necessity for businesses to harness skill, creativity, innovation, and technical expertise to navigate this evolving landscape. Our study anticipates significant shifts: autonomous order placements and payments, the emergence of new business models and digital currencies, enhanced traceability for greener solutions, and advanced strategies in combating fraud and counterfeit products. These transformations will be driven by AI-based hyperautomation and secure data-sharing, underpinned by privacy-preserving technologies to ensure trust and security.

      As a leading voice in this field, Worldline provides valuable insights into navigating these changes, emphasizing the need for businesses to start preparing now. This report delves into crucial areas poised for substantial evolution in the medium term, offering strategic guidance for businesses. With Worldline's expertise in understanding the complex payment landscape and innovating solutions, this publication serves as an essential resource for businesses seeking to optimize customer experiences in the digital payment arena.

      Download the publication

      Corporate Innovation Summit

      Speaker

      At the esteemed Corporate Innovation Summit (CIS), a notable side event of Websummit in Lisbon, I had the honor of being a speaker among a gathering of leaders and innovators from tech's largest companies. The Corporate Innovation Summit is renowned for addressing pressing issues in today's business world, particularly focusing on the intersection of leadership and technology. In this dynamic setting, I hosted a round-table discussion, diving into the pivotal role of expert communities within large corporations. Our conversation centered on how these communities, spanning across various divisions, are instrumental in fostering out-of-the-box innovation. This discussion not only highlighted the significance of interdisciplinary collaboration but also shed light on the practical approaches to harnessing collective expertise for groundbreaking advancements. My participation at CIS provided a platform to exchange insights and strategies with peers, contributing to the broader discourse on driving corporate innovation in an ever-evolving technological landscape.

  8. contact

    Let's Get In Contact!

    Begijnendijk - Belgium
    info@gertjanandries.com
    View me on LinkedIn