Kaya de Lange wins Young Captain Award 2025

Kaya de Lange, CEO of BeFrank, has been named the winner of the Young Captain Award 2025. This prestigious accolade is presented annually to the most promising young leader in Dutch business who stands out for courage, decisiveness, and impact on both the company and society. Kaya received the award on Monday from Vincent Karremans, outgoing Minister of Economic Affairs, during a festive ceremony at De Duif in Amsterdam.

The jury describes Kaya as a steady, decisive, and deeply committed leader with a strong ability to connect people. She is also recognized for her social engagement and her talent for linking societal challenges and opportunities to BeFrank’s offerings. The other finalists were Damla Hendriks, Chief Risk Officer and Member of the Executive Board at Van Lanschot Kempen, and Brian Broeders, Senior Vice President Finance Health, Nutrition & Care at dsm-firmenich.

Eelco Hoekstra, Chair of the Jury: “Kaya came across in the jury interviews as a highly engaged person and leader. She tackles challenges in her own unique way and knows how to involve the organization effectively. She demonstrates strong self-reflection, remains steadfast, and acts decisively. Kaya sees connecting people—and the necessity of doing so—as her greatest strength and the key to good leadership. Qualities that are fundamental for a Young Captain.”

The jury is also impressed by the transformation Kaya has driven within the sector. By making the concept of pensions more accessible and understandable, Kaya has shown a real commitment to addressing societal challenges and creating fundamental impact in the industry.

Kaya de Lange: “I can hardly believe I’ve won! It’s an incredible honor to receive this award among so many talented and inspiring participants. Throughout the process, I shared my vision on my personal development, my current role, and broader macroeconomic trends. Taking a step back from the daily routine was both educational and fun!”

Leon van Riet, CEO Netherlands Life & Pension and member of the Management Board of NN Group, congratulates Kaya: “This award is a wonderful recognition for Kaya. I’ve worked with her for 12 years, and from the very beginning she stood out as a leader. She’s a sharp thinker who quickly dives into complex matters. Kaya knows how to set out a compelling strategy while bringing calm and focus to the organization.”

As the new Young Captain, Kaya will receive a tailor-made networking and development program at Nyenrode Business University to further support her personal and professional growth on her path to the boardroom. In addition, she will join the valuable Young Captain alumni network—built since 2005—together with this year’s two other finalists.

About Young Captain Netherlands
Young Captain Netherlands provides a platform for the next generation of executives and innovative leadership in major companies. The initiative offers today’s young leaders a unique development opportunity through the two-day Young Captain Program, which explores geopolitical and societal issues and prepares them for the dynamics of the boardroom. Of all nominated candidates, only three are selected by the jury for a place in the final. The winner of the Young Captain Award and the two runner-ups join an active and inspiring alumni network—the Young Captain Network—consisting of more than 60 former finalists. Within this network, today’s and tomorrow’s leaders inspire and support each other.

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