BuildUp opens a new chapter with François Snoeck stepping in as CEO. After years of visionary leadership by Hélène de Troostembergh, a new energy is taking the lead — with the same mission: building better, together.
A fresh impulse to strengthen expertise in off-site and light steel construction
BuildUp, Belgium’s leading off-site construction company, announces the appointment of François Snoeck as its new CEO. He succeeds Hélène de Troostembergh, founder of the company and a true pioneer in construction industrialisation. After ten years of commitment, innovation and growth, Hélène passes the torch to François to lead BuildUp into its next chapter.
“With his deep understanding of the company and the industry, François is the perfect person to ensure continuity and growth,” says Hélène de Troostembergh.
A clear strategy: focus on what brings the most impact
In a rapidly changing industry, BuildUp is reinforcing its leadership in off-site construction with a strategy centred on performance, innovation, and sustainability. “We’ll focus on what we do best and what is profitable,” explains François Snoeck. “That means sharpening our focus on beSteel, strengthening our strategic partnerships, and accelerating innovation in our construction solutions.”
beSteel: the light steel solution to environmental and space challenges
The construction sector faces two major challenges: carbon neutrality by 2050 and a global housing shortage. Light steel frame off-site construction offers a concrete response to these issues while supporting the European ambition of zero net land take.
beSteel specializes in vertical extensions, making it possible to densify existing buildings without consuming more land. This method can cut CO₂ emissions by up to 50% compared to traditional techniques.
Leadership rooted in pragmatism and future vision
Civil engineer-architect François Snoeck began his career at BESIX, before joining BuildUp in 2022 as Head of Operations. He successfully led a strategic and operational restructuring.
“In 30 years, construction will look completely different,” he explains. “Traditional methods are reaching their limits. We have everything we need to shape a smarter, faster, and more sustainable construction market.”
A European ambition based on solid partnerships
BuildUp is already working with key partners such as Saint-Gobain in Switzerland, and with teams in Belgium, Croatia, and Slovenia that assemble beSteel’s light steel structures on-site. The aim is to optimize existing surfaces and make heritage rehabilitation a core growth driver. Hélène de Troostembergh will continue to support the company as a board member while engaging in major urban and social projects at the European level.
“BuildUp is future-ready, and François is the right person to lead the transition,” says Hélène.
About beSteel
beSteel is the market leader in off-site steel construction in the Benelux with 10 years of expertise and over 600 projects delivered across 10 countries. The company manages the entire process in-house, from structural analysis to production, using advanced technology. Its expertise in building vertical extensions makes it a key player in sustainable urban densification.