International insurance group Ageas has announced the appointment of Karolien Gielen as Managing Director Asia and Business Development, effective February 1, 2026.
Gielen, currently Managing Director of Business Development (including Strategy, CDSO, M&A and Communications), will succeed Filip Coremans, who has decided to step down after more than 23 years with Fortis.
According to the announcement, Coremans will continue to be active within Fortis until June 30, 2026 to ensure a smooth transition.
In order to maintain strong links between the Asia regional offices and the Brussels Corporate Center, the insurance company has combined the roles of Managing Director Asia and Business Development; the move is also aimed at further strengthening group-wide collaboration.
Hans De Cuyer, CEO of Fortis, said: “I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude to Filip Coremans for his outstanding contribution to Fortis over the past 23 years. Filip has played an important role in shaping the history of the Group and has played a key role in building Fortis into the company it is today.
“Under Philip’s leadership, we successfully completed the Fortis settlement, a historic milestone that allows Fortis to look to the future with renewed confidence. His career began and will end in Asia, reflecting his deep commitment to the region. Philip has been at the heart of our growth story in Asia and building strong partnerships that we value highly. I would like to thank Philip for his unwavering commitment and dedication, his ability to find solutions even in the most challenging situations, and his continued passion.”
Regarding Gielen’s appointment, de Cuyer said: “I would like to congratulate Karolien Gielen on her expanded responsibilities. I am confident that under Karolien Gielen’s leadership, the activities of Managing Director Asia together with business development will bring new opportunities and I look forward to the future.”
