Drug discovery and development company appointment.

Symeres has announced the appointment of Jurgen Berendsen as Chief Financial Officer (CFO), marking a significant return to the company after a successful tenure as Senior Group Controller.

Jurgen Berendsen

Berendsen brings more than 15 years of financial leadership experience across both professional services and international trade sectors, including time at KPMG, Hoogwegt International, and most recently Royal Reesink, where he served as Vice President of Finance and Control. He returns to Symeres at a pivotal time, driven by a strong belief in the company’s mission and potential. Berendsen brings not only deep institutional knowledge, but also valuable external perspective gained from leading finance functions in other complex organisations.

“Returning to Symeres as CFO is an extremely exciting opportunity,” said Jurgen Berendsen. “Symeres has all the ingredients for long-term growth and success. I am proud to join a strong and dedicated leadership team who is unwaveringly committed to delivering optimal outcomes for customers, employees, and shareholders alike.”

Berendsen previously joined Symeres in 2022 to take on the newly created role of Group Financial Controller. During his time at the company, he played a key role in the implementation of major transformation programs, including finance systems (ERP) upgrades, compliance initiatives, and business continuity planning. His close collaboration with the board and hands-on approach during the company’s restructuring phase earned him wide respect across the organisation.

“Jurgen’s appointment comes at a critical moment for Symeres as we strengthen our operational and financial foundations to scale more effectively,” said Guillaume Jetten, CEO of Symeres. “He combines strategic vision with a deep understanding of our business and culture. His return brings continuity and a partner mindset that will benefit the whole organisation.”

In his new role, Berendsen will oversee financial operations across Symeres’ global footprint, working closely with the executive team to support sustainable growth. His focus will be on building financial resilience, driving operational integration across sites in the Netherlands, Finland, and the U.S., and championing transparency and trust, both internally and with clients.

Reflecting on his decision to return, Berendsen cited a belief in the mission and a shared vision for how Symeres can adapt to market challenges and emerge stronger. “The tone at the top is vital, but equally important is how we translate that transparency and accountability across every customer interaction,” he said.

With an ambition to drive long-term customer partnerships and innovate, such as AI and integrated delivery models, Berendsen’s financial stewardship is expected to be instrumental in Symeres’ evolution as a best-in-class partner for biopharma organisations worldwide.

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