Word from our CEO Pascale Van Damme
Since early 2025, Pascale Van Damme has led Cordeel Group as CEO. With a background shaped by over two decades of technological leadership, a deep-rooted belief in sustainability, and a people-first philosophy, she brings bold clarity and fresh momentum to the construction sector. In this interview, she shares her reflections, ambitions, and how she envisions Cordeel as a force for progress — economically, socially, and environmentally.
What attracted you to the role of CEO at Cordeel Group?
What immediately resonated with me was Filip Cordeel’s long-term, values-based vision. Cordeel is a family-owned company with a deep sense of integrity — it places people, purpose and planet at the centre of business.
I saw a rare opportunity to connect innovation with sustainability and human leadership in a sector that touches the core of our society — from the infrastructure we rely on, to the communities we live in.
The strength of Cordeel lies not only in what we build, but in how we build: collaboratively, responsibly, and with a long view. The group’s diversification also creates exciting opportunities for synergy and resilience. I knew instantly this was a place where I could bring my full self — and make a lasting impact.
How have your first few months been?
I spent my initial months deeply engaging with teams across the group, listening, observing, and learning. What struck me was the pride and passion that exists at every level — from the shop floor to the boardroom. There is real craftsmanship, and a collective sense of possibility.
Cordeel is at a strategic inflection point. We have strong foundations, but even greater potential ahead. Together with Filip, we are shaping a roadmap for smart, sustainable growth — with digitalisation, cross-company collaboration, and innovation as key accelerators.
A crucial pillar of our strategy is placing the right people in the right roles. We are actively aligning talent with business needs and future ambitions. When people are empowered to contribute where they are strongest, it unlocks both personal and organisational excellence. That’s how we build a high-performing, resilient, and future-proof company.
We’re also cultivating a culture of ownership and agility. We want people to feel trusted to act, supported to grow, and inspired to innovate.
What role should Cordeel play in transforming the construction sector?
Cordeel is already a pioneer in sustainable construction — and we intend to stay ahead. We’re committed to circularity, decarbonisation and socially valuable real estate. We are not just building structures — we are shaping the living environment of tomorrow.
But sustainability is not only environmental — it’s also economic and social. We believe inclusive, diverse teams lead to better decisions, broader perspectives, and more innovative outcomes.
Our ambition is to deliver shared value: improving quality of life, enabling societal progress, and generating solid economic performance. Growth and responsibility must go hand in hand — that is the leadership model of the future.
How can technology help us build smarter, faster and more responsibly?
Technology is not a goal in itself, but a powerful enabler to accelerate, optimise, and amplify our impact.
Technology is a powerful multiplier — when used with intention. Tools like BIM, digital twins, and AI are transforming construction, enabling data-driven decision-making, real-time collaboration, and more sustainable outcomes.
AI, in particular, allows us to enhance human intelligence — not replace it. It helps people focus on high-impact work, reduces waste, and increases precision. Our approach is human-centric: we use tech to empower, not to overwhelm.
We apply a principle we call Focus to Accelerate: identifying key leverage points where technology can deliver exponential gains. That’s how we build not just faster — but smarter, safer, and more sustainably.
How has your view on sustainability evolved over the years?
My view has deepened significantly. Early in my career, sustainability was seen mostly through the lens of compliance or reporting. Today, I see it as the foundation of long-term business viability — and a moral imperative.
Especially in construction, every choice we make — every material, design, and method — shapes the world we leave behind. Sustainability has shifted from being a ‘checklist item’ to a core business principle.
And the beauty is: doing good and doing well are not in conflict. They reinforce each other. Sustainable choices are often smarter, more efficient, and more profitable over time.
Is there a connection between football and leadership?
Without a doubt. Football, like business, is about building winning teams. Success comes when everyone understands their role, plays to their strengths, and believes in the collective goal.
As Chairwoman of the Belgian Football Association and a FIFA Council member, I see first-hand how alignment, trust, and shared ambition can transform performance. It’s not just about skill — it’s about cohesion.
“Unity is strength” is one of my core beliefs. Whether on the pitch or in the boardroom, a leader’s job is to create clarity, unlock potential, and make people feel part of something bigger. That’s how you build resilient teams that thrive under pressure and perform consistently.
What message do you have for young people entering construction or other non-diverse industries?
Start with self-awareness: know what energises you, what you’re good at, and what kind of impact you want to make. Follow that compass, even if the path isn’t clear yet.
Don’t wait to be ‘ready’. Growth comes from stepping outside your comfort zone. Construction — like tech or sport — is a sector with real societal influence. Ask yourself: what role do I want to play in shaping the future?
Surround yourself with people who challenge and support you. Find mentors who believe in you. And always remember: joy and purpose are powerful drivers of success.
About Pascale Van Damme
Pascale Van Damme built a remarkable career in the technology sector, with over 20 years at Dell Technologies. She served as Vice President Public & Defense and Managing Director Belgium & Luxembourg.
In 2023, she became Chairwoman of the Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA), and in 2025, she joined the FIFA Council — the board of world football’s governing body.
Since early 2025, she leads Cordeel Group as CEO, bringing with her a mission to unite innovation, sustainability, and inclusive leadership to shape the construction sector of the future