Meet the Nordic Match Team | Gerard Van Damme

After more than 15 years in China, 5 in West Africa and a career spanning three continents, Gerard Van Damme brings a perspective few can match. Born in Antwerp, Belgium, Gerard holds an M.Sc. in Engineering from the University of Leuven and an Executive MBA from the University of Antwerp. He has held senior executive roles in the petrochemical, textile and construction materials industries across Europe, Africa and China. Today, as a Senior Advisor at Nordic Match, he leads our expansion into the Benelux market. He also serves on the board of a social not-for-profit organization. Gerard is married, a father of three and a proud grandfather.

What brought you to Nordic Match?

I lived and worked in China for more than 15 years before returning to Belgium at the end of 2023. In my last role, at ASSA ABLOY, I was closely involved in M&A strategy, and that is how I met Nordic Match team and Tony. We became friends and stayed in touch after I moved back to Europe. When he shared his idea of bringing Nordic Match into the Benelux market, it felt like the natural next step. So here I am.

You’ve worked in Europe, Africa and Asia. What has stood out to you most?

Before China, I spent five years with my family in West Africa. China’s growing global presence was already very visible there already then, and it made me want to understand it better. Europe and Africa share a long history, and the relationship felt familiar. Moving to China was a real eye-opener. Watching the country’s transformation into a global power from up close has been one of the most fascinating experiences of my career.

What opportunities do you see for Benelux companies in Asia?

The Benelux region has many world-class companies, and a lot of them have been in China for decades. But most have underestimated how quickly China has developed as a high-tech innovator, and many are still adjusting to that. The companies that move from seeing China as a market to seeing China as a partner in a global market will find significant new opportunities for growth.

What do you find most rewarding about cross-border M&A?

I have lived and worked on three continents for more than half my life. Along the way I’ve learned to value the differences between people and cultures, and I feel at home outside my comfort zone. Cross-border M&A is fundamentally about bringing people from different backgrounds together. Earning a client’s trust as their advisor in that process is very rewarding.

What do you enjoy most about working at Nordic Match?

Besides staying closely connected to China, it’s the professionalism of the team. Even from a distance, we are always working as one team and going for the extra mile.