Whyte

Belgium

Since its inception in 2008, Whyte Corporate Affairs has positioned itself as a leader in corporate affairs, a heady mix of corporate communications and public affairs that eschews the EU policy market attractive to so many local firms in order to provide an array of services to the numerous companies that make the Belgian capital their European headquarters. While Whyte has stayed true to its founding principles and vision, it has also evolved, drawing on both experience and analytics to feed its insight into the media, political, corporate, social, and academic landscape. Whyte consultants talk business—not just communication.

The firm’s values has been equally steadfast: it styles itself a frontrunner, open minded, caring and relevant). Its credo: by building understanding, acceptance and goodwill, it will secure its clients’ license to operate. The firm’s research and analytics capabilities have been supplemented over the past year by an investment in AI, as well as the use of digital channels and visualization. Whyte supported retail group Delhaize in a ground-breaking transformation after it announced its intention to transition to a 100% franchised business model, a change that required understanding, acceptance and action from employees. Its work for Holcim and Bebat was recognized in 2024 with three Belgian BORA (Best of Reputation) awards.

With more than 45 employees in its Brussels headquarters and Antwerp satellite, the firm has achieved consistent growth over the past couple of years, up by 11%in 2023 and another 10% last year. Whyte secured a multi-year framework contract for Lantis-Oosterweel (Europe's largest infrastructure project) for the second time. In addition, McDonald's and Brussels Airport chose Whyte for public affairs and communication guidance. And there was crisis work for AXA Group (Paris) and the European Central Bank (Frankfurt). These new assignments, along with existing projects for Uber, battery recycling nonprofit Bebat, Belgian Brewers, Fost Plus, Mondelez, Baxter, and more meant for a strong 12 months.

To sustain this growth, at the end of 2023, Whyte Corporate Affairs announced that Belgian Private Equity player Finco acquired a 49% stake. Simultaneously, Philip Naerta 10-year veteran who helped build the public affairs operation, became the first of the new generation to become an equity partner. Dieter Coussée and Justine Comijn were brought on to lead geographic growth in West Flanders and Wallonia, respectively. Partner Eveline De Ridder published a book on crisis communication in 2022 and in 2023, partner Joris Bulteel, co-authered “Neighbour, what are you doing now?” on the NIMBY syndrome and community relations.

 Whyte also received recognition for its Diversity Plan from the Brussels employment office Actiris, which provides an independent assessment of diversity objectives and progress.—PH