Career Biography

Yves Heijmans is a seasoned legal executive with over two decades of experience in international corporate law, currently serving as EA General Counsel at Chevron Phillips Chemical. His career is marked by strategic leadership, cross-border expertise, and a deep commitment to fostering excellence and community within the in-house legal profession.

At Chevron Phillips Chemical, Yves leads legal operations across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, advising on complex commercial transactions, regulatory compliance, competition law, and corporate governance. He is a key contributor to the company’s internal prevention structures, aligning legal frameworks with evolving Belgian and EU regulatory requirements and governance standards. His ability to integrate legal insight with business strategy has made him a trusted advisor to executive leadership and a driving force behind risk-aware growth initiatives.

Yves began his career in private practice, where he built a strong foundation in corporate and transactional law. His transition to in-house counsel allowed him to take on broader strategic roles, shaping legal policy and enabling business transformation. He has led negotiations on high-value deals, overseen litigation and arbitration matters, and implemented compliance programs that have become internal benchmarks.

Beyond his corporate role, Yves is deeply engaged in the legal community through his work with the Association of Corporate Counsel (ACC) Europe, where he serves as a board member. He plays a central role in organising conferences and events that bring together in-house counsel from across the continent, creating platforms for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and professional development. His efforts have helped strengthen the ACC Europe network and elevate the visibility of legal leadership within the corporate world.

Yves is also a passionate advocate for mentorship and talent development. Through the ACC Europe Mentorship Program, he supports emerging legal professionals, offering guidance and fostering career growth. His commitment to building community among in-house lawyers is reflected in his initiatives to connect peers, share insights, and promote a culture of openness and mutual support.

His inclusion in the Legal 500 GC Powerlist: Belgium 2025 is a testament to his impact, not only as a legal expert, but also as a connector, mentor, and leader. Yves continues to champion the evolving role of in-house counsel, advocating for ethical leadership, innovation, and resilience in a rapidly changing legal and business environment.