Jan Dobbenie

The path to becoming a transformational CIO isn’t always linear. For Jan Dobbenie, the journey began with humble roots and a passion for music, leading him to the helm of VDAB’s digital revolution.

With over three decades of experience spanning industries from consumer goods to brewing and energy, Jan’s career is proof of his adaptability and strategic acumen. He honed his leadership skills at giants like Procter & Gamble – for which he worked 3 years in the US – and AB InBev, where he spearheaded large-scale global IT initiatives and navigated complex business transformations. The unexpected challenges Jan faced, such as being abruptly confronted with a restructuring, only served to strengthen his resolve and deepen his understanding of the importance of balance and resilience in leadership. Experience taught him that ‘passion for a job should not become an obsession’, a lesson he carries with him to this day. Being recognized for his business acumen and value creation, Jan was in 2012 appointed to general management responsibility of the Belgian Eni gas & power business of 1,2 billion euro.

Jan’s aspiration to contribute to society brought him in 2018 at VDAB and once again Jan’s vision extends beyond IT. As Chief Data & Information Officer, he champions data-driven innovation, recognizing its power to revolutionize job services. He has transformed VDAB’s I&T department into a high-performing engine, fostering a culture of continuous learning and empowerment. The results speak for themselves: VDAB now stands as a global leader in AI adoption and ethical implementation, setting a new standard for public sector innovation. The organization’s advancements have not gone unnoticed, with VDAB’s I&T department surpassing its peers in the Gartner benchmark study, a testament to Jan’s effective leadership and strategic vision. The study confirmed that VDAB’s I&T department is at least 5 years ahead of comparable organizations worldwide in all domains.

Jan’s leadership style is rooted in collaboration and trust. He believes in empowering his team, fostering a ‘can-do’ mentality that drives exceptional results. His commitment to people development is evident in initiatives like the I&T Academy, ensuring VDAB’s I&T workforce remains at the forefront of technological advancement. This emphasis on human capital has earned him accolades, with colleagues praising his ability to inspire and delegate, creating an environment where individuals can thrive and reach their full potential.

Jan’s strategic foresight is exemplified by the launch of the ‘VDAB Dataspace for employment’, a groundbreaking initiative that leverages data sharing to create value for all stakeholders in the Flemish labor market. This strategic move positions VDAB as a trusted advisor, guiding citizens towards informed career decisions. It underscores Jan’s understanding that data is not just an asset but a tool for societal empowerment.

Beyond his professional achievements, Jan remains grounded by his personal interests. He enjoys sailing, playing the drums, and traveling, reminding us that a fulfilling life requires balance and a pursuit of passions beyond the workplace.

Jan Dobbenie’s journey is one of relentless pursuit of excellence and value creation, driven by a passion for innovation and a deep-seated belief in the power of people. His transformational leadership at VDAB has not only revolutionized the organization but also set a new benchmark for public sector CIOs worldwide. He embodies the spirit of a true CIO, one who not only understands technology but also leverages it to create meaningful impact and drive societal progress.