Ruben Merre

I help companies solve complex strategic, product and go-to-market challenges by bringing clarity, structure, and execution to high-stakes initiatives. I support organizations with zero-to-one product development, scaling new ventures, digital transformation, strengthening operational foundations and large-scale program leadership — especially in fintech, digital assets, and deep-tech environments.

I'm a founder, builder, and executive with a track record of taking ideas from first principles to globally distributed, world-class hardware and software products. In 2018, I co-founded NGRAVE and built the world’s only EAL7 + FIPS 140 certified digital asset security device — the highest security certification attainable globally.

Under my leadership, the company raised ~$20M (incl. Binance and EU Horizon 2020), closed a multi-million partnership with a top-3 global asset manager, and protected over $1.5B in digital assets across 150+ countries. My work was recognized by co-authors #2–#5 of the Bitcoin whitepaper for advancing digital asset security. Selected for Belgium’s 40 Under 40 (2021).

Before NGRAVE, I accumulated 20,000+ hours as a strategy and management consultant and program director, delivering complex transformation programs across banking, fintech, energy, logistics, and utilities — leading programs up to 100 FTE and reporting directly to Group EXCO.

I hold an MSc in Business Engineering (Magna Cum Laude, KU Leuven), PMP®, Lean Six Sigma Black Belt (96%), and completed the Oxford Blockchain Strategy Program. Fluent in six languages (NL, EN, FR, DE, ES, IT).

Open to fractional leadership, senior program and project direction, digital transformation, institutional custody strategy, fundraising advisory, and zero-to-one venture building. Remote worldwide; open to relocation. Rates depend on engagement type.