Laurent joined GPlus in early 2008 from the Directorate-General for External Trade in the European Commission, where he was working for both the Policy Coordination unit and the unit of the Chief Economist. At the Commission Laurent followed bilateral trade agreements, worked on relations with the European Parliament, and contributed to initiatives aimed at helping the Commission better communicate its trade policies.

Before this Laurent gained valuable experience in the field of EU affairs, legislation and events organisation during work experience for the Belgian Ministry of foreign affairs and UNICEF as well as Student Government and Youth associations.

A graduate in International Relations, Laurent holds two Master's degrees - a MSc in International Political Economy from the London School of Economics (LSE) and a Master's degree in European Studies from the Université catholique de Louvain (UCL).

A Belgian national, Laurent travelled a lot during his education to the UK, Spain, Germany, Australia and the Middle East. He speaks French, English and Spanish and understands German and Dutch.