TCR Group announces an important leadership transition.
Jason Watson, who has been with TCR for 10 years, will take up the role of group CEO from July 2025.
Tom Bellekens will transition to the role of executive chairman.
This is the result of a well-planned succession planning aimed at supporting the group’s continuous high growth.
From pioneer to global leader
Bellekens joined TCR in 2002 after several years at Bain.
Over two decades, he has held key roles across the business, becoming group CEO in 2018.
Bellekens has guided the company through significant change.
Under his leadership, TCR navigated the Covid-19 pandemic and transformed from a European player into a global leader in GSE services and airport solutions, nearly tripling its size, the company said.
As executive chairman, Bellekens will remain closely involved in the company’s strategic direction.
His focus will include further geographic expansion, senior client relationships, innovation and investor engagement.
“I am delighted to take on my new role. This is the result of two years of preparation to ensure that Jason and the entire senior team are in place to step in, with my continued support moving forward,” said Bellekens.
“The company has been on a fantastic growth journey, but there is so much more potential, and we are more ambitious and confident than ever.
“Our primary focus will always remain on delivering on our promises to our customers.
He continued: “The fact that we have grown consistently with 90% of our largest accounts over the last four years can be seen as the result of our heavy investment in our long-term customer partnerships.
“As exec chair, I will ensure that this customer centricity remains high on our agenda, alongside innovation as we continue to strive to set tomorrow’s standards in our industry.”
Leading TCR into its next phase of global growth and innovation
Watson brings over 20 years of international leadership experience in transport and logistics.
He has held senior roles at TCR across the Asia-Pacific region, Middle East and North America.
In 2024, he became deputy CEO, and he worked closely with Bellekens and the EXCOM to define and execute the company’s strategy and reinforce its operational foundations.
As CEO, Watson will focus on delivering growth in both GSE services and airport solutions.
With strong momentum in fleet electrification, pooling and mobile infrastructure, TCR is uniquely positioned to support airports, airlines and ground handlers in achieving more efficient and sustainable operations, the company said.
Watson said: “TCR is a business built on operational excellence and customer trust.
“We have a strong team, a unique service model and a clear purpose.
“I am excited to lead the next phase of growth – deepening our partnerships, driving digital and sustainable innovation and setting the standard for ground handling support worldwide.”
