Paul Gheysens: 700 Million Real Estate Vision and a Passion for Football
Paul Gheysens
Paul Gheysens, a Flemish entrepreneur, is the founder and founder CEO of Ghelamcoan active and influential real estate company in the field of construction and real estate development. Born into a farming family in Ypres, Gheysens initially started out as a landscaper before switching to real estate pioneering projects in Poland as early as 1991 and becoming one of Belgium's richest men with 1 billion in assets.
Ghelamco, although renowned for many developments, is particularly well known for the Ghelamco Arena, home of the world-famous soccer KAA Gent. The construction of the stadium gave Gheysens the opportunity to acquire surrounding land, on which to develop a complex including office space, parking lots, commercial areas and a hotel.
Key projects in Poland and Belgium :
- The Spire 220-metre skyscraper in Warsaw, initially the tallest in Eastern Europe.
- Warsaw Unit Skyfall Warsaw: Building to be completed in 2021, featuring the Skyfall Warsaw viewing platform.
- The Hub : Complex acquired by Google for 700 million dollarsincluding a hotel and office towers.
The company's financial expansion has at times been marred by tax controversies, including a claim for 153 million euros by the Belgian authorities, which was eventually settled for 10 million euros.
Equestrian passion :
Gheysens is passionate about Arabian thoroughbreds, investing in top-quality horses such as the famous QR Marc stallion, winner in Dubai.
Commitment to soccer:
Club owner Royal Antwerp FC, he has contributed to the team's sporting renewal, even though this requires a substantial investment.
Family life and business strategy:
Family remains central to Gheysens. His wife Ria and their children play an important role in his business, with a significant presence at Ghelamco and a growing family role in the management of Royal Antwerp FC.
Gheysens' efforts and strategy reflect a blend of ambition and pragmatism, aiming to develop a real estate empire while maintaining a balance with his passions and his family commitment with a fortune folded at 1 billion of euros.
