The network of national Intelligent Transport Systems societies from across Europe say they’re looking forward to a great working relationship with ERTICO – ITS Europe as its new CEO Joost Vantomme takes over.
“He’s a man we know we can work with,” commented Chair Günther Weber of ITS Germany as he welcomed the continued spirit of co-operation between the continent’s ITS body and the individual associations.
“We have thoroughly enjoyed working with the former CEO Jacob Bangsgaard, and with change there is always a little apprehension,” admitted Mr Weber. “However, one meeting with Mr Vantomme, and we know we have nothing but a positive future between the individual ITS societies and ERTICO – he’s full of enthusiasm and ideas and it’s obvious he is keen to work with us.”
Mr Vantomme has been in the smart mobility sector for some time, most recently as Smart Mobility Director of the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) and previously as Director of Public Affairs at FEBIAC, the Belgian automotive federation. More than 25 years of professional experience has led him from being a lawyer in the telecoms, IT, postal and logistics sectors, to Belgian government advisor, with key roles in European and international organisations and finally to the sector of smart mobility.
“The ITS Industry across the continent relies on the excellent national associations to share information and best practice, and to develop ideas,” added Mr Vantomme. “I am excited to work with the Network to make sure that between us we get the understanding of, and investment in, transport technology at both a national and EU level, and we can only do that with co-operation, so let’s deliver our vision together.”
The Network of National ITS Associations is a grouping of national ITS interests formed in order to ensure that ITS knowledge and information is transmitted to all actors at the local and national level – including small and medium sized companies – and support ITS promotion from the ground up. It was officially launched in 2004 in London and is hosted by ERTICO – ITS Europe.
Mr Vantomme is the guest on the Highways Voices podcast to be published on 16 February at 9.30am.
(Picture – ERTICO – ITS Europe)
