Home » Team » Team Benelux » Emmanuel Onghena
- Argos member since 2025
- Speaks Dutch, French and English
- University Master in Business Engineering (University of Leuven)
- Argos member since 2025
- Speaks Dutch, French and English
- University Master in Business Engineering (University of Leuven)
Can you introduce yourself in a few words?
Emmanuel
Tell us about your career and how you joined Argos?
Emmanuel
After completing my studies in Business Engineering at KU Leuven, I began my career as a Strategy Consultant at McKinsey & Company, where I spent over a year and a half, primarily working on M&A projects across various sectors. Looking to move closer to the investment side, I transitioned into private equity by joining a Belgian family fund. After nine months there, I joined Argos, where I’m now part of the Brussels office.
From my very first interactions with the Argos team, I felt a strong cultural alignment and was drawn to the firm’s collaborative spirit, international footprint, and diverse investment portfolio – all of which promised a steep learning curve and meaningful professional growth.
Is this the path you thought you would take when you started your studies?
Emmanuel
The world of private equity has changed a lot in recent years. What is your definition of PE? How do you see it?
Emmanuel
PE today is about much more than only the financial returns. It’s a catalyst for change, helping companies accelerate growth, navigate complexity and unlock their full potential. What excites me most is the opportunity to work closely with founders and management teams – not just as capital providers, but as true partners who offer strategic guidance, hands-on support and a shared ambition to create long-term value. What makes the role especially rewarding is the exposure to a wide range of industries and business models, which brings constant learning and fresh challenges.
What encounter - or moment - has marked your journey at Argos?
Emmanuel
How do you balance your professional and personal life? (e.g. family, sports, etc.)
Emmanuel
Balancing professional and personal life is important, especially in a demanding role. For me, when you’re passionate about your work, it naturally becomes part of your life. It’s about finding a rhythm that allows each part of your life – career, relationships, and personal passions – to thrive. I’m hardworking but also prioritize staying active through hockey, golf, cycling, running… I’m social by nature and love spending quality time with friends and family, enjoying dinners, drinks, and busy weekends that keep me energized and balanced.
Outside of your job, what are your passions or commitments?
Emmanuel
Outside of work, I’m passionate about cooking and enjoy exploring new restaurants with friends. I also like to stay active – sports are an important part of how I unwind and maintain balance. Travel is another big passion of mine; I love discovering new cultures, meeting people from different backgrounds and experiencing new ways of thinking and living.
”PE today is about much more than only the financial returns. It’s a catalyst for change, helping companies accelerate growth, navigate complexity and unlock their full potential.“
How do you see yourself in the future?
Emmanuel
I see myself enjoying a fulfilling balance between a rewarding family life and a dynamic, purpose-driven career. I hope to be doing work that continues to challenge and inspire me – leading impactful projects, growing alongside great teams, and constantly learning along the way.
In another life, you would be... ?
Emmanuel
A Michelin-star chef – spending my days experimenting with flavors, crafting unforgettable dining experiences and bringing people together around a table. I’d travel for inspiration, blending global cuisines with local ingredients, chasing the perfect balance between creativity and precision. The kitchen would be my stage!
If you would like to have a direct discussion with me, feel free to