With more than two decades of international leadership at the top of the legal profession, Dejonghe brings a wealth of experience in innovation, global strategy, and sustainability. He served as Global Managing Partner (2008–2016) and then as Global Senior Partner (2016–2024) at the international law firm Allen & Overy. Most recently, he played a pivotal role in the high-profile 2023–2024 merger with Shearman & Sterling, establishing A&O Shearman as one of the world’s leading transatlantic law firms.

Under his leadership, Allen & Overy earned the title of "Most Innovative Law Firm in Europe" six times from the Financial Times Innovative Lawyer awards — an unprecedented achievement.

More recently, Wim Dejonghe and David Morley, also a former Managing Partner at A&O, launched a new consultancy, Dejonghe & Morley, which advises private investors on entering the legal services market.

Dejonghe is a sought-after public speaker on legal innovation, business trends, and economic affairs.

“Wim’s track record in global leadership, innovation, and sustainability makes him an exceptional addition to the Foundation’s Board,” stated Alain Hubert, Founder and President of the International Polar Foundation. “We look forward to his valuable contributions as we continue to strengthen international cooperation and support for IPF’s initiatives to support polar research."

“It is an honour to join the Board of the International Polar Foundation,” remarked Wim Dejonghe on his appointment. “The Foundation’s work in promoting polar research and sustainable innovation is critical to addressing some of the world’s most pressing challenges today. I look forward to adding my experience to help further its mission.”

Beyond his legal career, Wim Dejonghe is a trusted advisor to leading organizations and serves on several corporate and non-profit boards, including Recticel, Corilus, Orsi Academy, and Westvlees Group. His multilingual background and international legal experience, which includes Washington D.C., New York, Barcelona, and Brussels, equip him with a unique global perspective that aligns with the International Polar Foundation’s mission of fostering international collaboration in polar research and a more sustainable society.