Rutger de Planque is stepping down as CEO of PF Concept International from 1 February 2010. He will remain an active shareholder.

De Planque has been associated with the company since 1990. “After 20 years, I’ve decided to leave PF Concept International to do other things,” he says.

New CEO
De Planque: “PF Concept is embarking on a new adventure and deserves a new CEO to go with it, someone who will bring fresh perspectives and opportunities. But the existing culture, values and principles, plus the successful working methods we’ve developed over many years, will remain very much a part of our company. I’m absolutely convinced of that. PF Concept will continue to put all its efforts and passion into its most important task: serving our clients and safeguarding their interests.”

It was De Planque who made such a success of PF Concept International, particularly in the Netherlands. Some extraordinary marketing strategies – their brand policy for example – contributed to that success.

De Planque is giving no explanation for why he thinks this is the right time for him to leave. There has been some speculation, however, of a conflict of interest between chairman and CEO Philippe Varnier of Polyconcept (of which PF Concept International is a part) and Rutger de Planque.