In 2022, ING celebrates 30 years on the Czech market. As of 1 January, the bank is led by Erik Fortgens. The Head of Wholesale Banking in the Czech Republic succeeds former CEO, Roel Huisman, who has been appointed head of change at the newly established global department ING Payments and Settlement utility. As per 1 January 2022, ING in the Czech Republic focuses on Wholesale Banking clients only.
Erik Fortgens has been with ING for over twenty years and has significant international business experience. He became Head of the Wholesale Bank Division of ING Czech Republic on 1 October. Prior to that, he oversaw Financial Markets Corporate Sales for Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA), a team which consisted of more than 100 sales professionals located in 18 countries.
“ Due to the pandemic and the decision of ING to to leave Czech retail banking market by end-2021, last year, we were in a constant state of change with many uncertainties surrounding us. Luckily, at ING, we can rely on a functional working environment and fantastic colleagues. It has been amazing to see how we care for each other, and although we have been working from home most of the time, we have been doing a great job keeping our focus, ensuring that our people stay healthy and business continues,” said Erik Fortgens.
“We have a 30-year track record with our Wholesale Banking activities in the Czech Republic and throughout these years we have built long-term through-the-cycle relationships with our clients. In 2022, we will continue to focus on further strengthening our position as a sustainability pioneer and champion, helping our clients in their transition to become sustainable ‘beyond the green’, support the global ambitions of our clients with our international network and through our deep sector knowledge deliver tailored, reliable financing solutions to our clients.”
ING has a long-standing history of supporting people and the community. In May 2021, Erik became Chairman of the ING Bank Fund of the Tereza Maxová Foundation and has actively participated in all joint projects. ING has been cooperating with the Foundation for more than 16 years.
