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Nele Van Malderen
Chief Communications & Sustainability Officer at La Lorraine Bakery Group NV
Nele Van Malderen is the Director of Group Communications & Sustainability at La Lorraine Bakery Group NV, a position she has held for several years. She possesses a diverse and extensive background in communications, having worked across various industries both in Belgium and internationally.
Education and Early Career
Nele holds a Master's degree in Nutrition and an additional degree in business economics from the Catholic University of Leuven. Her academic background supports her professional focus on sustainability and communications within the food industry.
Professional Experience
Throughout her career, Nele has held significant roles in prominent organizations:
- Proximus: Served as Strategic Advisor to the CEO and Director of Group Communications.
- Novartis Consumer Health: Worked as Global Head of Regional Markets Communications and Head of Communications for Europe.
- Danone and Unilever Benelux: Contributed as a nutrition manager and communication director.
Current Role at La Lorraine Bakery Group
In her current role at La Lorraine Bakery Group, Nele leads the company's sustainability initiatives, integrating them into the core business strategy. Under her leadership, the company has developed a comprehensive sustainability strategy focusing on three pillars: product, planet, and people. This strategy includes measurable targets and projects aimed at reducing carbon emissions, enhancing packaging sustainability, and promoting regenerative agriculture practices.
Nele emphasizes the importance of data-driven reporting to build confidence in achieving sustainability goals and has been instrumental in aligning the company's practices with global standards like the Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD). Her work has been recognized with awards such as the Ecovadis Silver Medal, reflecting the company's commitment to sustainability.
Personal Philosophy
Nele is passionate about fostering a culture of sustainability within La Lorraine Bakery Group, engaging nearly 5,000 employees to become advocates for sustainable practices. She believes that sustainability not only serves as a moral imperative but also as a significant business opportunity that can drive growth.
In summary, Nele Van Malderen is a seasoned communications professional dedicated to advancing sustainability within the food industry through strategic leadership and employee engagement.
