Elia Group CEO Chris Peeters is Belgian Manager of the Year 2021

Chris Peeters, the CEO of the Belgian high-voltage grid operator Elia, was elected Manager of the Year 2021 by the Flemish business magazine Trends.

The 55-year-old engineer from Zonhoven (Flanders) got awarded for his leadership and pioneering role in the digital transformation and development of one of the most innovative grid operators in Europe - Elia Group. The company located in Brussels transmits electricity from generators to distribution system operators at a national and European level. 

Through initiatives such as the 'Internet of Energy' and the focus on consumer-centricity, Elia Group wants to redesign the electricity system and more actively involve its consumers who already use electric cars and heat pumps. In 2020, the group got worldwide recognition by commissioning of a first hybrid interconnector between Germany and Denmark. 

"Chris has succeeded in combining in-depth technical knowledge within Elia with clear and understandable language to non-specialists. Under his leadership, Elia has evolved from a traditional technical company to an international player with a focus on sustainability," claims Trends jury foreman Bart De Smet.

Peeters, who also got nominated for Manager of the Year in 2018, proudly accepted the award presented by the Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo on Wednesday. "I especially think this award is a great recognition for the enthusiasm and drive of the employees I lead every day", says the Elia frontman. "They did an incredible job."