With a background in physical education and economics, Jean Verheyen’s passion lies in developing new businesses. He has spent the past two decades focused on digital innovation in the logistics sector. At Nallian, Verheyen and his team works to help cargo communities operate more efficiently by enabling secure data sharing and process alignment across stakeholders.

What was your dream job as a child?

I wanted to be a professional sportsman. I’ve always admired the dedication, discipline, and mental strength it takes to pursue excellence in sports — the way athletes push their limits, make sacrifices, and stay focused on improving, little by little, day after day. That mindset really resonated with me, and it still inspires how I approach challenges today.

What’s the biggest change you’ve seen in the industry?

The shift towards data-driven collaboration. Where once information was siloed, today we see increasing openness and real-time coordination becoming the new normal.

What’s one buzzword you secretly dislike?

“Synergy” — it’s often overused and under-executed.

Window or aisle seat?

Long haul: Aisle. I like to move around, especially on long-haul flights.

Short haul: Window. I love gazing out at the world from 10,000 m – it’s like watching a never-ending nature documentary through the window. Especially above the mountains, that view never gets old for me.

What’s the best business lesson you’ve learned the hard way?

You can’t scale trust — you have to earn it, relationship by relationship.

If you could swap jobs with anyone for a day, who would it be?

A mountain guide. Spending a day leading people through challenging, breathtaking terrain — reading the landscape, adapting to nature’s rhythm, and helping others discover their limits — would be incredibly rewarding. It’s a job rooted in trust, resilience, and a deep connection with the outdoors, which I truly admire.

Which three items would you bring to a desert island?

I’d bring a Swiss Army knife for all those survival needs, a library, and… my bicycle. I know a bike on a desert island may sound funny, but I can’t imagine life without cycling! Hopefully the island has some trails – if not, at least I’d stay fit riding in circles on the beach.

Tea or coffee?

Coffee. Usually only before 12 a.m.

What’s your guilty pleasure TV show or movie?

Not much into TV, but I enjoy immersive nature documentaries and sports.

What’s the most exciting place you’ve visited for work?

Singapore. The energy, innovation, and efficiency are unmatched.

If you could introduce one new regulation in air cargo, what would it be?

Mandated data standards for digital documentation across all players.

What’s your go-to karaoke song?

None — I steer well clear of karaoke. Not my arena!

Could you describe your job in three words?

Discover. Inspire. Empower.

What’s your hidden talent?

I seem to have a knack for finding and picking the best local street food wherever I go. It’s one of my favourite ways to explore new regions — discovering a place through its flavors, often off the beaten path.

If you could instantly master one skill, what would it be?

I’d love to be able to play a musical instrument. More broadly, I really admire people who can entertain — whether it’s through music, storytelling, humour, or performance. That ability to connect with others and lift a room is something truly special.

What’s something on your bucket list?

High on my bucket list is to cycle the Atlantic Coast Route from Norway all the way down to southern Europe. It’s an epic journey along the coastline, through different countries and landscapes. Combining my love for cycling, travel, and nature in one grand adventure like that would be a dream come true. It’s thousands of kilometres of pedaling – a true test of endurance and an opportunity to soak in incredible scenery. I’m not sure when I’ll do it, but I’m determined to make it happen someday.

What’s the best airport in the world, and why?

Changi Airport — it redefines the passenger experience and sets the bar high for innovation.

How did you get into airfreight/logistics?

By diving into digital transformation projects at Brussels Airport — and seeing the incredible impact collaboration can have.

What quote has most resonated with you?

“It is not the mountain we conquer but ourselves.” – Sir Edmund Hillary. This quote hits home for me. As a mountain lover, I take it literally and figuratively: every big challenge, whether it’s climbing a peak or transforming an industry, is really about overcoming your own doubts and limits. It reminds me to stay resilient and positive, no matter what obstacles I face. In business and life, I truly believe a positive mindset can turn mountains into molehills.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

Listen more than you speak. Especially when you’re leading.

What is the most adventurous thing you have ever done?

Backpacking in Sumatra. Harsh, beautiful, and unforgettable.

If you could have dinner with any three people, living or dead, who would it be and why?

I’m not really drawn to the idea of idolising individuals. While I can deeply respect and admire certain qualities in people — their skills, values, or achievements — those often come hand in hand with less appealing traits. That makes the idea of sharing a long dinner a bit less attractive. I prefer meaningful conversations with people who are authentic and grounded, regardless of their fame or status.