Growth Story: Jorn Hillaert – Building change through people and co-creation

Jorn’s career began in the financial world, working as a Financial Advisor at Deutsche Bank. But after a few years, he felt the need for something more. “I wanted more challenges - in every sense of the word,” he says. That search led him to TriFinance’s Financial Institutions, where over four years, he evolved from analytical and process-driven roles to more human-focused functions such as coaching and project management. It was during these years that Jorn discovered his passion for facilitating growth - not just his own, but also that of clients, colleagues, and organizations.

Unlocking potential a boomerang

After a short experience outside TriFinance, Jorn made a conscious choice: he returned as a ‘boomerang’- this time joining the CFO Services team. “TriFinance’s MeInc® philosophy really resonated with my personal values,” he explains. “Coming back felt like coming home.” Almost immediately, Jorn took on project management roles, quickly becoming a key player in several internal initiatives.

One defining moment in Jorn’s career was the decision to shift his focus toward organizational change with a particular emphasis on people. “I realized I needed to feel connected to the organization I work for,” he reflects. “I wanted to contribute to something bigger, to drive initiatives that align with my values.” That shift saw him take on a central role in TriFinance’s Project Management Unit and the mentoring process both critical levers for internal transformation.

Ask Jorn what achievement he’s most proud of, and his answer is crystal clear: the impact he has on others. “Helping colleagues grow, take ownership, and make progress after a mentoring conversation: that’s what gives me the most energy,” he says. His approach is rooted in curiosity and reflection, always seeking to unlock potential in those around him.

At the heart of Jorn’s work is one non-negotiable principle: co-creation. Whether it’s with clients, colleagues, or cross-functional teams, Jorn believes in the power of diverse perspectives. “Everyone brings something different to the table. By thinking and learning together, we lift each other - and the project - to a higher level,” he says. It’s a belief that shows up in the way he runs workshops, guides project teams, and facilitates strategic discussions.

Like a fish in the sea

Jorn’s favorite phase of a project? The beginning. “That moment when you sit down with a client, listen deeply, and co-create a roadmap - that’s when I’m in my element,” he says. His focus is always dual: shaping the path forward while ensuring that people are supported, trained, and empowered to embrace change.

For Jorn, advisory work goes far beyond delivering solutions. It’s about defining the challenge together, bringing in diverse expertise, and guiding transformation not just during the project, but long after. “True advisory means being a partner in the change. Not just structuring it, but living it together with the client,” he explains.

His growth at TriFinance has been very personal. Regular coaching and sounding board moments with colleagues have helped him gain new perspectives and make deliberate choices about his path. “The freedom to shape your own journey, paired with the responsibility to act on it. That’s what makes growth real,” Jorn reflects.

And perhaps that’s the essence of Jorn’s story: growth is not a ladder to climb, but a long journey with ups and downs.