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Customs Pro Award

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MEET THE Nominees

Public voting will start on Wednesday 5 November 2025, at 8:00 a.m. and will close on Friday 5 December 2025, at 6:00 p.m.

Nico BOGAERTS

Global customs & compliance lead
Pfizer Global Supply

2725

Nico Bogaerts is a dynamic and stress resistant leader, embracing and promoting change. Throughout his career at PwC, he has worked with companies across a wide range of industries on customs and trade topics. Leveraging technology in combination with in-depth customs knowledge and people-management focus are the key to his success. At Pfizer, he matured the Belgian customs team creating the foundation for the Global Customs network he is now leading with responsibilities for customs activities across 59 countries. Especially when needing the ship COVID vaccines globally at lightspeed, while managing trade measures and export licensing put in place to protect EU citizens, Nico was able to demonstrate his expertise to bring the legal framework and day-to-day operations together. To ensure customs knowledge is shared, Nico is owning a course on financial and fiscal topics for Pharma Supply Chain at Thomas More University College.
I vote

Jorg BRUIJN

Excise Services Manager Benelux
NEDCARGO

2722

Compliance, applications, and collaboration are the key words that define my work. Over the past 20 years, I have built up extensive experience in excise legislation across multiple countries. I enjoy finding innovative solutions with a motivated group of people, as excise is a distinct specialism within the customs world. My goal is to continuously improve and to work in such a way that compliance becomes a shared understanding and a natural way of working for everyone. Embedding laws and regulations into applications allows us to deliver the best possible service to our clients. Collaborating with other professionals enriches our knowledge every day and keeps us motivated with these challenging activities. Creating mutual trust between government and businesses is essential — this can only be achieved through transparency and open dialogue. Does this appeal to you? Then vote for me as the candidate to win this year’s Customs Pro Award!
I vote

An COPPENS

Specialist, Import / Export & Compliance
Toro Europe

2703

When I started in customs, I had no experience – just a strong belief that where there’s a will, there’s a way. Through training, support, and determination, I have grown into someone who confidently leads projects and embraces every challenge. Last year, I proudly graduated from the Customs Academy at VOKA. Since then, I have dared to take on projects independently, because I feel that my knowledge keeps growing – day by day. I am also an active member of the customs network, where I have built a circle of experts I can always rely on. Customs is constantly evolving — new rules, new challenges. I see change as an opportunity to grow and improve. I love the variety and the chance to make a difference. I hope my story resonates with you and I would be honored to earn your vote! Thank you! — An
I vote

Koen DE CEUSTER

Sr. Manager, Trade Compliance Europe
Stanley Black & Decker EHQ

2723

I’m living proof that, through hard work and a willingness to learn, it is possible to grow from the lowest rung of the customs and trade compliance ladder to a respected manager at a high level within my organization. Throughout my journey, I have remained committed to the values upheld by both the customs administration and the private sector. I thank you for your vote. Koen
I vote

Raf GEEROMS

Export Manager
Toyota Material Handling Logistics AB

2727

For almost 18 years in logistics, I’ve been passionate about every aspect of international trade and customs making processes simpler, smarter, and more transparent. As Export Manager at Toyota Material Handling, I’ve transformed our operations to adapt to evolving regulations, ensuring efficiency and compliance across borders. From relocating export activities to leading SAP implementation projects, my focus has always been on innovation and continuous improvement. Thanks for your vote! Together, we can drive smarter, more sustainable customs practices.
I vote

Patrick HOLLENFELTZ

Expert customs & VAT
FOLD - Fédératuin des Opérateurs en Logistique et en Douane

2726

As a visionary and bold multi-entrepreneur, Patrick embodies a new generation of logistics leaders. Founder of ECDC Logistics and TLS Express, owner of Imperial Cargo Airlines, and President of FOLD (Federation of Logistics and Customs Operators), he combines strategy, innovation, and regulatory expertise to redefine global supply chains. In Liège, Los Angeles, or Shenzhen, Patrick stands out for his ability to transform customs complexity into a strategic advantage — blending operational excellence, geopolitical insight, and vertical integration. Through his federative approach and international initiatives, he actively promotes and elevates Belgian customs expertise on the global stage. A true pioneer of global trade, he is shaping a new era of logistics and customs — agile, connected, and sovereign.
I vote

Nancy VAN LAER

Senior Expert Douane
Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, a Johnson & Johnson company

2724

Hi, I’m Nancy – Vote for Your Favorite Customs Dinosaur! 🦕 Started in customs when documents were typed on a typewriter and delivered by hand… and somehow, I’m still here! With 37 years of experience, a passion for trade compliance, and a knack for surviving digital jungles, I’ve evolved from carbon paper to cloud platforms (and lived to tell the tale). I may call myself a “customs dinosaur,” but I’m proud of the strong bones built from decades of hands-on experience. My journey has been driven by passion, innovation, and a deep commitment to compliance and collaboration. I’ve helped shape smarter, smoother customs operations and love sharing what I’ve learned with fellow customs nerds. If you think experience, and a touch of prehistoric wisdom deserve a spotlight, I’d be honored to have your vote!
I vote
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