Galapagos NV is a global biotechnology company (Euronext & Nasdaq: GLPG) with operations in Europe, the United States and Asia. The company is dedicated to transforming patient outcomes through life-changing science and innovation. Galapagos is currently entering a new phase in its strategic transformation, focusing on disciplined capital stewardship and transformative business development to build a pipeline of innovative clinical programs. Supported by a strong balance sheet, the company is actively evaluating value-accretive opportunities aimed at delivering meaningful impact for both patients and stakeholders. Galapagos is seeking an experienced, proactive and business‑oriented Head of European Legal Operations and Corporate Secretary to lead critical operational, governance and legal‑administrative processes across our European organization and to support the company’s obligations as a Belgian‑listed issuer. Ensure European entities remain compliant with Belgian and EU governance requirements. Serve as internal expert on Belgian corporate law and EU corporate frameworks. Review European contracts, identify risks and mitigate legal/operational exposure. Provide day-to-day legal support for operations in Europe typical of a lean, high-performing legal team, potentially including: - Employment counseling and coordination with HR and outside counsel, including in respect of equity grants to employees under Belgian legal requirements. - Litigation management (strategy, discovery coordination, budgeting, oversight); - Real property/facilities and workplace matters; Vendor/technology contracting and general commercial support. Provide practical, business-oriented counseling to cross-functional stakeholders (BD, R&D, Clinical, Commercial, Finance, Procurement, Compliance) and drive negotiations to timely closure. Support internal audits, controls and risk‑management processes. Efficiently manage outside counsel, including scoping, budgets, timelines and deliverables. Serve as Company Secretary to the Board and its committees in Belgium, assist with agendas, compile materials, assist with minutes and resolutions and maintain official minute books at the registered office in compliance with the Companies and Associations Code; Steward the Belgian Corporate Governance Code 2020 “comply or explain” framework and the corporate governance statement in the annual report; manage governance charters, annual board/committee evaluations and director onboarding. Assist with AGM/EGM execution (notices, proxy materials, vote tabulation, publication of results) in line with SRD I/II and Belgian law. Deep expertise in Belgian corporate law and familiarity with EU regulations. ~ Experience supporting executive leadership teams. ~ Fluent English and Dutch. Hands on experience with Belgian listed issuer obligations (FSMA/Euronext), including MAR/SRD II processes and AGM/EGM execution. Occasional international travel may be required. You will work in a dynamic, fast and efficient organization with high quality standards. You will be offered an international, dynamic and team-oriented working environment. You will join a highly motivated entrepreneurial team.