Report 17 Jul 2026

Centric - Vendor Profile - Worldwide

PAC presents a comprehensive review of Centric as it navigates a new phase of ownership, leadership, and sector-focused transformation. This profile highlights Centric’s strategic priorities, sector alignment, and evolving service portfolio across the European IT landscape.

Key findings:

Leadership renewal: Appointment of Hans van Waaijenburg (CEO), Guido Winkelman (CFO), Rob van der Salm (CPTO), Dieneke Schouten (MD Digitale Overheid), and Aart Jochem (CISO) drives professionalization and strategic execution.
Sector-focused structure: Streamlined organization targets four core verticals (public sector, retail, financial services, and transport & logistics) to enhance operational efficiency and client relevance.
Strategic acquisitions: Majority stakes in Twelve (FinTech/retail), Innovatie nul13 (municipal advisory), and OrtaX (WOZ property valuation) reinforce sector propositions and expand solution breadth.
Digital sovereignty: Launch of Dutch sovereign cloud, workplace, and AI offerings for the public sector, supported by partnerships with Nextcloud, Nebul, and the Open Cloud Alliance to ensure compliance and data residency.
Modernized software & SaaS: Transition to standardized, interoperable platforms including Thinkwise low-code and SAP-based solutions for government, retail, and financial services.
IT outsourcing & managed services: Expansion of cloud, hybrid infrastructure, service desk, and workplace management with a focus on security, compliance, and recurring contracts.
Cybersecurity: Strengthened leadership and resilience through a dedicated CISO and ongoing investment in security assurance.
Selective staffing: Streamlined IT staffing and multi-disciplinary teams, following the sale of Belgian staffing operations.
Public sector leadership: Key solutions such as Key2Finance, Centric Belastingen, and OrtaX serve over 220 Dutch municipalities, with a shift toward SaaS standardization and open integration.
Healthcare cloud services: Supported by a Cloud Center of Excellence, addressing sector-specific requirements.

Conclusion: PAC sees Centric as committed to revitalizing its positioning with strengthened sector alignment, modernized offerings, and a renewed focus on digital sovereignty and client trust. The company’s ongoing transformation and strategic investments are expected to drive sustainable growth and competitive differentiation across its core markets.

Recommended advisory: PAC Leadership Session – Cybersecurity Compliance