Koen Vanlaer

Background

About Koen Vanlaer

As Head of Legal for North & Central Europe at Etex, I lead the legal function across a diverse and dynamic region that includes the BeNeLux, Nordics, and Central & Eastern Europe. I provide strategic and day-to-day legal support to all divisions and legal entities within this footprint, ensuring alignment with Etex’ global objectives and values.I manage a skilled internal legal team and coordinate external counsel across all jurisdictions in my region, ensuring high-quality, business-aligned legal advice. I work closely with senior leadership and the ExCom of the Group.With over 18 years of legal experience - 16 of which were spent in private practice at top-tier international law firms including Allen & Overy and Freshfields - I bring deep expertise in corporate, commercial, finance and transactional law. My current role involves not only managing legal risk and compliance but also partnering with the business on high-impact projects. These include joint ventures for innovative new business models, legal structuring of major capex investments, and advising specialized teams such as Etex’ tunnel team.I’m known for my business-oriented, “can-do” attitude and act as a trusted boardroom advisor, helping to navigate complex legal and strategic challenges with clarity and pragmatism.