Hire SEO & Performance Marketing Strategist in Belgium: The Complete Guide for Global Employers

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Why Global Companies Hire SEO & Performance Marketing Strategists from Belgium

Belgium offers a unique combination of advantages for companies seeking top SEO and performance marketing talent. As a multilingual country at the heart of Europe, Belgium produces marketing professionals with exceptional linguistic versatility, typically fluent in Dutch, French, and English, with many also proficient in German. This multilingualism enables them to develop and implement strategies across multiple European markets without language barriers.

Belgian strategists bring valuable cross-cultural marketing insights from working in the country’s diverse linguistic communities. They understand the nuances of communicating effectively across different European cultures, making them adept at creating campaigns that resonate across borders.

The country’s position as home to EU institutions has fostered a deep understanding of European digital marketing regulations, including GDPR and other compliance requirements. Belgian marketing professionals are typically well-versed in navigating these complex regulatory frameworks while maintaining marketing effectiveness.

Belgium’s advanced digital infrastructure and high internet penetration rates have created a sophisticated digital marketing environment. Professionals from this market are experienced with cutting-edge tools, technologies, and strategies, having worked in a mature digital ecosystem that demands innovation and effectiveness.

Who Should Consider Hiring Belgium SEO & Performance Marketing Strategists

Several types of organizations would benefit significantly from bringing Belgian SEO and performance marketing expertise into their teams:

  • Companies Expanding into European Markets can leverage Belgian strategists’ multilingual capabilities and cross-cultural understanding to develop effective campaigns across multiple European countries. Their knowledge of regional differences in search behavior and platform preferences is invaluable for market entry strategies.
  • E-commerce Businesses targeting European consumers benefit from Belgian marketers’ experience with EU consumer behaviors, payment preferences, and digital shopping patterns. They understand the nuances of converting European audiences and optimizing the customer journey for different markets.
  • B2B Companies with European Target Audiences can utilize Belgian strategists’ understanding of European business cultures and B2B buyer journeys. Their expertise in navigating longer, more complex sales cycles in European markets is particularly valuable.
  • Organizations Needing Regulatory Compliance Expertise in their marketing will find Belgian professionals well-versed in GDPR and other EU digital marketing regulations. This expertise helps ensure campaigns remain effective while staying compliant with Europe’s strict privacy and data protection laws.
  • International Brands Seeking Localization Expertise can benefit from Belgian marketers’ ability to adapt global strategies to local European contexts. Their multilingual capabilities and cultural understanding enable authentic localization that resonates with specific European audiences.

Key Skills and Specializations for SEO & Performance Marketing Strategists

Belgian SEO and performance marketing strategists typically possess a diverse range of skills and specializations that make them valuable assets to global marketing teams:

Core Technical Skills

  • Multilingual SEO – Optimizing content across different languages and understanding regional search behaviors
  • Technical SEO Auditing – Conducting comprehensive site analyses to identify and resolve technical issues affecting search performance
  • Data Analysis – Proficiency with Google Analytics, Google Tag Manager, and other analytics platforms to extract actionable insights
  • Paid Media Management – Experience with Google Ads, Meta Ads, LinkedIn Ads, and programmatic platforms
  • Marketing Automation – Working with platforms like HubSpot, Marketo, or Salesforce Marketing Cloud to optimize customer journeys

Specialized Areas of Expertise

SpecializationKey ComponentsCommon Tools/Platforms
International SEOHreflang implementation, international site structures, localized keyword researchSemrush, Ahrefs, Screaming Frog
E-commerce Performance MarketingShopping ads, product feed optimization, conversion rate optimizationGoogle Merchant Center, Facebook Catalog, Hotjar
B2B Lead GenerationAccount-based marketing, LinkedIn optimization, lead scoringLinkedIn Sales Navigator, HubSpot, Salesforce
Data-Driven AttributionMulti-touch attribution, customer journey analysis, ROI modelingGoogle Analytics 4, Adobe Analytics, Supermetrics
Localization StrategyCultural adaptation, market-specific content development, local platform expertiseCultural adaptation tools, translation management systems

Cross-Functional Capabilities

  • Content Strategy – Developing multilingual content plans aligned with SEO and performance goals
  • UX Optimization – Understanding user experience principles and their impact on conversion
  • Marketing Technology Integration – Connecting various platforms into cohesive marketing technology stacks
  • Performance Measurement Frameworks – Creating comprehensive KPI structures and reporting systems
  • Regulatory Compliance – Ensuring marketing activities comply with GDPR and other EU regulations

Experience Levels of Belgium SEO & Performance Marketing Strategists

The Belgian digital marketing talent pool includes professionals at various experience levels, each offering different capabilities and expertise:

Entry-Level Strategists (1-3 years)

These professionals typically hold degrees in digital marketing, business, or communications from Belgian institutions like KU Leuven, ULB, or EPHEC. They’ve often completed internships at Belgian or international agencies and have foundational knowledge across SEO, PPC, and analytics platforms.

Entry-level Belgian strategists generally have strong technical skills and are adept at executing campaigns according to established strategies. They’re typically proficient in at least two languages (often Dutch/French plus English) and are familiar with the basics of marketing in multilingual environments.

While they may need guidance on complex strategic initiatives, they bring fresh perspectives and are usually well-versed in emerging platforms and technologies. Many have specialized certifications from Google, Meta, or HubSpot, demonstrating their commitment to professional development.

Mid-Level Strategists (3-7 years)

Mid-level professionals have typically managed multiple campaigns across different channels and markets. They’ve developed deeper expertise in specific areas like technical SEO, conversion optimization, or paid media, while maintaining broad knowledge across the digital marketing landscape.

These strategists can independently develop and implement comprehensive marketing strategies and have experience measuring and optimizing performance against business objectives. They’ve often worked with international brands and understand the nuances of adapting strategies for different European markets.

Mid-level Belgian strategists typically bring strong analytical capabilities, with experience translating data into actionable insights. Many have managed small teams or client relationships and can effectively communicate complex marketing concepts to non-technical stakeholders.

Senior Strategists (7+ years)

Senior SEO and performance marketing strategists from Belgium bring extensive experience developing and leading complex, integrated marketing programs. They have deep expertise in their specializations and broad knowledge across digital marketing disciplines, allowing them to create holistic strategies that align with business objectives.

These professionals typically have experience working with enterprise-level organizations, managing substantial budgets, and delivering measurable business impact. They’re skilled at navigating complex stakeholder environments and aligning marketing initiatives with broader organizational goals.

Many senior strategists have worked across European markets and understand the subtle differences in consumer behavior, platform performance, and regulatory requirements across regions. They often bring valuable networks and partnerships that can accelerate marketing initiatives.

Hiring Models to Choose From

When bringing Belgian SEO and performance marketing talent into your organization, several hiring models are available, each with distinct advantages and considerations:

Hiring ModelBest ForAdvantagesConsiderations
Direct EmploymentLong-term strategic roles, core team membersFull integration into company culture, highest loyalty, complete control over workRequires legal entity in Belgium, highest administrative burden, most expensive termination
Contractor ArrangementProject-based work, specialized expertise needsFlexibility, reduced administrative burden, easier terminationRisk of misclassification, less loyalty, potential knowledge continuity issues
Staff AugmentationTemporary team expansion, specialized campaign needsQuick access to talent, scalability, reduced hiring burdenHigher hourly/daily rates, less cultural integration
Employer of Record (EOR)Testing new markets, hiring without legal entityLegal compliance handled, quick deployment, no need for Belgian entityShared employment responsibilities, somewhat higher costs than direct employment
Agency PartnershipAccessing full-service capabilities, scaling quicklyImmediate access to diverse expertise, established processesLess control, potential higher costs, divided attention with other clients

The optimal hiring model depends on your specific needs, timeline, and long-term strategy for the Belgian or European market. For temporary needs or market testing, staff augmentation companies in Belgium offer flexibility. For permanent roles without a legal entity, an Employer of Record provides the best balance of compliance and convenience.

Hiring in Belgium requires navigating the country’s comprehensive employment laws and regulations. Companies have two primary options:

Entity Setup vs. Employer of Record

ConsiderationEntity SetupEmployer of Record (EOR)
Setup Time3-6 months1-2 weeks
Setup Costs€5,000-15,000+None or minimal
Ongoing AdministrationHigh (payroll, tax, compliance)Minimal
Legal ResponsibilityFull employer liabilityShared with EOR partner
Compliance RiskHigh (requires in-house expertise)Low (managed by EOR)
Best ForLong-term, large-scale operationsTesting markets, small teams, quick hiring

For many marketing departments and agencies, using an Employer of Record like Asanify provides the most efficient path to hiring Belgian SEO and performance marketing talent. This approach eliminates the need to understand the nuances of Belgian employment laws while ensuring full compliance.

Belgian employment law includes specific provisions around working hours, benefits, and termination that can be challenging for foreign companies to navigate. For example, understanding the leave policy in Belgium is essential, as the country has generous vacation allowances and public holidays that differ from many other countries.

With an EOR solution, you can hire SEO and performance marketing strategists in full compliance with Belgian law while focusing on your marketing objectives rather than administrative complexities. This is particularly valuable for companies looking to outsource work to Belgium without establishing a permanent entity.

Step-by-Step Guide to Hiring SEO & Performance Marketing Strategists in Belgium

Step 1: Define Your Requirements

Begin by creating a detailed job description outlining the specific skills, experience, and language requirements for your ideal candidate. For SEO and performance marketing roles, be specific about required platforms (Google Analytics, Google Ads, Meta Business Manager, etc.), technical skills (technical SEO, data analysis, CRO), and industry expertise. Define which languages are essential—in Belgium, requirements often include Dutch, French, and English, depending on target markets.

Step 2: Choose the Right Hiring Model

Based on your timeline, budget, and long-term strategy, select the most appropriate hiring model from those discussed above. For rapid deployment without a Belgian entity, an Employer of Record or staffing agencies in Belgium offer the most straightforward path.

Step 3: Source Qualified Candidates

Utilize specialized channels to reach Belgian digital marketing talent including:

  • Industry-specific job boards like DigitalMarketing.be
  • LinkedIn targeted searches with Belgian location filters
  • Professional associations such as BAM (Belgian Association of Marketing)
  • Digital marketing conferences and networking events in Brussels, Antwerp, and Ghent
  • Belgian university alumni networks (KU Leuven, ULB, Vlerick Business School)
  • Specialized digital marketing recruitment agencies with Belgian expertise

Step 4: Evaluate and Select Candidates

Conduct a thorough evaluation process including:

  • Initial screening interview focusing on experience and language proficiency
  • Technical assessment or case study to evaluate practical skills
  • Portfolio review of previous campaigns and results
  • Cultural fit interview with team members
  • Reference checks with previous employers or clients

Step 5: Onboard Your New Strategist

Create a comprehensive onboarding program that addresses both technical and cultural integration. Ensure compliance with Belgian employment regulations by working with your Employer of Record partner. Asanify can handle the employment contract creation, payroll setup, and benefits administration, allowing you to focus on integrating the new strategist into your marketing team and ongoing campaigns.

Salary Benchmarks

SEO and performance marketing strategist salaries in Belgium vary based on experience, specialization, and location. Here are typical ranges (gross annual in EUR):

Experience LevelBrussels/AntwerpOther Major CitiesRemote Positions
Entry-Level (1-3 years)€35,000 – €45,000€32,000 – €42,000€30,000 – €40,000
Mid-Level (3-7 years)€45,000 – €65,000€42,000 – €60,000€40,000 – €60,000
Senior Level (7+ years)€65,000 – €90,000+€60,000 – €85,000€60,000 – €90,000

Specialization Premiums

Certain specializations command salary premiums:

  • Advanced analytics and data science skills: +5-15%
  • E-commerce optimization expertise: +5-10%
  • Multilingual campaign management (3+ languages): +5-10%
  • Marketing automation expertise: +5-8%

Additional Compensation Elements

  • Performance bonuses (typically 5-15% of annual salary)
  • Meal vouchers (€8 per working day is standard)
  • Transportation allowance or mobility budget
  • Group insurance (pension, health)
  • End-of-year premium (13th month)
  • Home office allowance (common for remote positions)

Note that Belgian employment includes mandatory benefits that add approximately 30-35% to the employer’s cost beyond the gross salary.

What Skills to Look for When Hiring SEO & Performance Marketing Strategists

When evaluating candidates for SEO and performance marketing positions in Belgium, focus on both technical expertise and soft skills that indicate success in digital marketing roles:

Essential Technical Skills

  • SEO Fundamentals – Strong understanding of on-page, off-page, and technical SEO principles
  • Multilingual SEO Expertise – Experience optimizing content across different languages and understanding regional search nuances
  • Analytics Proficiency – Ability to use Google Analytics 4, Google Search Console, and other analytics platforms to extract actionable insights
  • Paid Media Management – Experience with campaign setup, optimization, and measurement across platforms (Google, Meta, LinkedIn, etc.)
  • CRO (Conversion Rate Optimization) – Understanding of testing methodologies, user experience principles, and conversion funnel optimization
  • Marketing Automation – Experience with email marketing, customer journey mapping, and automation platforms
  • Data Analysis – Ability to interpret performance data and translate it into actionable marketing strategies
  • Technical Understanding – Working knowledge of HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and how they impact marketing performance

Valuable Soft Skills

  • Strategic Thinking – Ability to develop comprehensive marketing plans aligned with business objectives
  • Communication Skills – Clear articulation of complex marketing concepts to diverse stakeholders
  • Project Management – Experience coordinating multiple campaigns and initiatives simultaneously
  • Adaptability – Flexibility in responding to algorithm changes, platform updates, and shifting market conditions
  • Cultural Sensitivity – Understanding of cultural nuances that impact marketing effectiveness across different regions
  • Continuous Learning – Commitment to staying current with rapidly evolving digital marketing best practices
  • Client/Stakeholder Management – Experience building relationships and managing expectations

Belgian-Specific Advantages

  • Multilingualism – Fluency in Dutch, French, and English is common and valuable for targeting multiple markets
  • Cross-Cultural Marketing Experience – Understanding of how to adapt campaigns for different European audiences
  • EU Regulatory Knowledge – Familiarity with GDPR and other European marketing regulations
  • European Market Insights – Understanding of consumer behavior across different European countries

During interviews, use practical assessments, case studies, and portfolio reviews to evaluate both theoretical knowledge and practical application skills.

Employing SEO and performance marketing strategists in Belgium involves navigating several important legal and compliance considerations:

Employment Contract Requirements

  • Written contracts are mandatory, specifying role, location, hours, and compensation
  • Intellectual property and confidentiality clauses are crucial for marketing roles
  • Non-compete clauses are permitted but subject to limitations on duration and scope
  • Probation periods are limited to 1-3 months depending on salary level

Working Hours and Conditions

  • Standard work week is 38 hours
  • Overtime must be compensated or provided as compensatory rest
  • Right to disconnect provisions protect employees from after-hours communication
  • Remote work regulations have specific requirements for home office setups

Leave Entitlements

Belgian employees, including marketing professionals, are entitled to generous leave provisions as outlined in the leave policy in Belgium, including:

  • 20 days minimum annual leave (based on 5-day workweek)
  • 10 public holidays
  • Special leave for life events (marriage, birth, bereavement)
  • Sick leave with guaranteed salary for the first month

Data Protection and Marketing Regulations

  • Strict GDPR compliance is essential for marketing roles
  • Belgian Data Protection Authority actively enforces privacy regulations
  • Specific rules apply to email marketing, cookies, and tracking technologies
  • Marketing professionals must be trained on compliant practices

Tax and Social Security

  • Employers must withhold and pay personal income tax (progressive rates)
  • Social security contributions are substantial (approximately 25% for employers and 13.07% for employees)
  • Special tax incentives may apply for certain innovation activities

Navigating these requirements can be challenging for foreign companies without Belgian expertise. Asanify’s Employer of Record service ensures full compliance with all Belgian employment regulations while allowing you to focus on leveraging the marketing expertise of your Belgian team members.

Common Challenges Global Employers Face

Companies hiring SEO and performance marketing strategists in Belgium typically encounter several challenges:

Competitive Talent Market

Belgium has a well-developed digital marketing sector with high demand for skilled professionals. Top talent often receives multiple offers, making competitive compensation packages and compelling career progression essential for attracting and retaining the best candidates.

Complex Employment Termination

Belgian employment law heavily favors employee protection, making termination processes lengthy and potentially costly. Notice periods for professional roles can extend to several months, and proper documentation of performance issues is essential before considering termination.

Language and Regional Considerations

Belgium’s linguistic divide between Dutch-speaking Flanders and French-speaking Wallonia creates complexity in employment practices. Job descriptions, contracts, and workplace communications may need to be available in multiple languages depending on your target markets and the employee’s region.

Remote Work Regulations

While digital marketing roles are often performed remotely, Belgium has specific regulations regarding home office setups, equipment provision, and expense reimbursement. Companies must ensure compliance with these requirements when offering remote or hybrid arrangements.

Integration with Global Marketing Teams

Incorporating Belgian marketing professionals into global teams can present challenges in aligning workflows, communication patterns, and campaign management approaches. Cultural differences in feedback styles and decision-making processes require thoughtful management.

When you outsource work to Belgium, these challenges can be magnified without proper local support. Using an Employer of Record like Asanify eliminates many of these challenges by providing local expertise and handling the complex administrative aspects of employment.

Best Practices for Managing Remote SEO & Performance Marketing Strategists in Belgium

Digital marketing roles are well-suited to remote work, and many Belgian professionals have embraced this flexibility. Successfully managing remote marketing teams requires specific approaches:

Establish Clear Performance Metrics

Define precise KPIs and performance expectations that focus on outcomes rather than hours worked. For SEO and performance marketing roles, this might include traffic growth, conversion rates, campaign ROI, or lead quality metrics. Regular performance reviews against these metrics help maintain alignment and motivation.

Implement Structured Reporting Systems

Create standardized reporting templates and schedules for campaign performance, project progress, and resource utilization. This provides visibility into work without micromanagement and helps identify opportunities for optimization or support.

Leverage Collaborative Marketing Tools

Invest in shared platforms for campaign management, analytics dashboards, and creative assets. Tools like Google Marketing Platform, Asana for project management, and creative collaboration platforms ensure everyone has access to necessary resources regardless of location.

Regular Strategy Touchpoints

Schedule consistent strategy meetings to ensure alignment between marketing activities and business objectives. These sessions provide opportunities to discuss market trends, performance insights, and upcoming initiatives while strengthening team cohesion.

Respect Work-Life Boundaries

Belgian professionals typically value clear separation between work and personal time. Honor standard working hours (typically 9:00-17:30) for communications and meetings unless urgent matters arise. Be mindful of Belgium’s “right to disconnect” provisions that protect employees from after-hours work expectations.

Professional Development Support

Digital marketing evolves rapidly, and Belgian professionals value opportunities to enhance their skills. Provide access to training resources, certifications, and industry conferences to help them stay current with best practices and emerging technologies.

Cultural Sensitivity in Communications

Be aware of communication preferences that may vary across Belgian regions. Professionals from Flanders may prefer direct, concise communication, while those from Wallonia might expect more contextual information. Adapt your communication style accordingly while maintaining clarity and respect.

Regular In-Person Connection

When geography permits, schedule occasional in-person team days or retreats to strengthen relationships and tackle complex strategic planning. These face-to-face interactions complement remote collaboration and build stronger team cohesion.

Why Use Asanify to Hire SEO & Performance Marketing Strategists in Belgium

Asanify offers a comprehensive solution for companies looking to hire SEO and performance marketing talent in Belgium without establishing a legal entity:

Streamlined Employer of Record Services

  • Legal employment of your chosen marketing professionals on your behalf
  • Compliant employment contracts aligned with Belgian requirements
  • Full payroll management including accurate tax withholding
  • Benefits administration including mandatory and supplementary benefits
  • Leave management compliant with Belgian leave policy

Digital Marketing Industry Expertise

  • Understanding of competitive compensation structures for marketing roles
  • Experience with remote work arrangements common in digital marketing
  • Knowledge of industry-specific contractual considerations like IP protection
  • Guidance on market-appropriate benefits and incentives

Flexible Hiring Solutions

  • Support for various employment arrangements from full-time to part-time
  • Ability to quickly scale teams up or down based on campaign needs
  • Options for transitioning contractors to employees compliantly
  • Support for hybrid and remote work arrangements

Ongoing HR Support

  • Day-to-day HR administration and employee inquiries
  • Performance management guidance
  • Compliance updates as regulations change
  • Support with employee transitions or role changes

Simplified Global Team Integration

  • Streamlined processes for integrating Belgian talent into global teams
  • Consistent employment practices across multiple countries
  • Single point of contact for all employment matters
  • Consolidated invoicing and reporting

With Asanify’s Employer of Record solution, you can quickly and compliantly hire top SEO and performance marketing talent in Belgium while focusing on your core marketing objectives rather than administrative complexities.

FAQs: Hiring SEO & Performance Marketing Strategist in Belgium

What are the average salary expectations for SEO and performance marketing strategists in Belgium?

SEO and performance marketing strategists in Belgium typically earn between €35,000-90,000 gross annually, depending on experience level, specialization, and location. Entry-level roles (1-3 years experience) generally command €30,000-45,000, mid-level positions (3-7 years) range from €42,000-65,000, while senior strategists (7+ years) can earn €60,000-90,000+. Brussels and Antwerp typically offer the highest salaries, with specialized skills like advanced analytics, e-commerce optimization, or multilingual campaign management commanding premiums of 5-15%.

What languages do Belgian marketing professionals typically speak?

One of the key advantages of hiring Belgian marketing professionals is their multilingualism. Most are fluent in at least two languages, with many speaking three or more. In Flanders (northern Belgium), professionals typically speak Dutch and English, while in Wallonia (southern Belgium), French and English are common. In Brussels, many speak all three languages. Additionally, due to Belgium’s proximity to Germany and Luxembourg, German language skills are relatively common. This multilingualism makes Belgian strategists particularly valuable for companies targeting multiple European markets.

How does the Belgian work culture differ from other countries?

Belgian work culture blends elements from its neighboring countries while maintaining distinct characteristics. Belgians typically value work-life balance, with clear boundaries between professional and personal time. The workday usually runs from 9:00-17:30, and after-hours communication is generally limited to genuine emergencies. Belgian professionals appreciate direct but diplomatic communication and value consensus-building in decision-making. Punctuality is important, meetings are typically structured with clear agendas, and promises are expected to be kept. Regional differences exist between Flanders and Wallonia, with Flemish culture generally more aligned with Dutch directness, while Walloon culture shares similarities with French business practices.

What benefits are legally required for marketing professionals in Belgium?

Mandatory benefits include social security (covering healthcare, unemployment, and pension), paid annual leave (20 days minimum for a 5-day workweek), public holiday compensation (10 days), and end-of-year premiums (13th month). Employers must also provide insurance against workplace accidents and commuting accidents. Additional standard benefits, while not legally required but typically expected, include meal vouchers (around €8 per working day), transportation allowance or mobility budget, complementary health insurance, and group pension insurance. For remote marketing roles, employers are also expected to provide equipment and/or a home office allowance.

How long does it take to hire an SEO or performance marketing strategist in Belgium?

The hiring timeline typically ranges from 4-8 weeks, depending on seniority and specialization requirements. For roles requiring niche expertise or multiple language fluency, the process may take longer. Working with staffing agencies in Belgium can accelerate the process by providing pre-vetted candidates. Using an Employer of Record like Asanify further streamlines the hiring process by handling all legal and administrative aspects, allowing you to focus on finding the right talent. For companies without a Belgian entity, an EOR solution can reduce the time to hire from months to weeks.

Can we hire SEO and performance marketing strategists as independent contractors in Belgium?

While possible, this arrangement carries significant misclassification risks in Belgium. Belgian authorities strictly distinguish between employees and contractors based on actual working conditions rather than contractual terms. For marketing roles involving regular hours, integration into your team, use of your tools, and following your processes, contractor classification is likely inappropriate and could result in substantial penalties. Belgian tax authorities regularly audit contractor relationships, and reclassification can lead to back taxes, social security payments, penalties, and potential legal issues. An Employer of Record solution offers a more compliant alternative for companies without a Belgian entity.

How does Belgium’s leave policy affect marketing team availability?

Belgium’s generous leave policy means marketing professionals are entitled to at least 20 days of annual leave (based on a 5-day workweek) plus 10 public holidays. Many Belgians take extended summer vacations (2-3 weeks) in July or August, and additional time off around Christmas and Easter is common. This requires thoughtful planning for campaign management and project timelines. Staggered vacation scheduling within teams and clear documentation of ongoing initiatives are essential for maintaining marketing continuity. Additionally, having designated backup personnel for critical marketing functions during leave periods helps ensure campaign performance doesn’t suffer.

What’s the best way to integrate Belgian marketing strategists into our global team?

Successful integration requires attention to both operational and cultural factors. Start with a comprehensive onboarding program that clarifies expectations, communication protocols, and reporting structures. Implement collaborative tools that enable asynchronous work across time zones while scheduling regular synchronous touchpoints for strategy alignment. Assign a team “buddy” to help navigate company culture and provide informal support. Be mindful of cultural differences in communication styles and decision-making approaches, providing guidance on your company’s norms while respecting Belgian work practices. Regular check-ins during the first 90 days help identify and address integration challenges early. For companies outsourcing work to Belgium, creating clear documentation of processes, expectations, and success metrics is particularly important.

How can we verify the technical skills of Belgian SEO and performance marketing candidates?

Employ a multi-faceted evaluation approach including portfolio reviews of past campaigns with specific questions about strategy, implementation, and results. Consider practical skills assessments such as analyzing a sample website for SEO improvements, developing a mock campaign strategy, or interpreting analytics data to extract insights. Technical interviews with your existing marketing team help evaluate specific platform knowledge and problem-solving approaches. Verification of relevant certifications (Google Ads, Analytics, HubSpot, etc.) provides additional validation of technical proficiency. For senior roles, case study presentations where candidates explain their approach to a specific marketing challenge can reveal both technical knowledge and strategic thinking.

What termination notice periods apply for marketing strategists in Belgium?

Belgian employment law specifies statutory notice periods based on length of service, which are significantly longer than in many other countries. For professional roles like marketing strategists, notice periods can be substantial: ranging from 1-2 weeks during probation to several months for established employees. For instance, an employee with 5 years of service may be entitled to 18 weeks’ notice. These notice periods are mandatory unless the employee has committed serious misconduct. Employers must either have the employee work during the notice period or provide payment in lieu. These lengthy notice periods represent an important consideration when making hiring decisions and should be factored into team planning and budgeting.

What’s the fastest way to hire marketing strategists in Belgium without a local entity?

Using an Employer of Record (EOR) like Asanify provides the fastest path to compliant hiring without establishing a Belgian entity. An EOR handles all legal, payroll, and HR administration while you maintain day-to-day management of the marketing function. This approach allows you to hire strategists in as little as 1-2 weeks, compared to the months required to establish a legal entity. For more flexible, project-based marketing needs, staff augmentation companies in Belgium specializing in digital marketing talent provide another efficient option. Both solutions allow you to quickly access Belgian marketing expertise while remaining fully compliant with local employment laws.

Conclusion

Hiring SEO and performance marketing strategists from Belgium offers significant advantages for global companies seeking to enhance their digital marketing capabilities. Belgian marketing professionals bring valuable multilingual skills, cross-cultural marketing understanding, and expertise in navigating European markets and regulations.

However, navigating Belgium’s complex employment landscape requires careful attention to regional differences, comprehensive understanding of labor laws, and compliance with strict regulatory requirements. The right hiring approach—whether through direct employment, staff augmentation, or an Employer of Record solution—depends on your specific organizational needs and long-term strategy in the Belgian or European market.

By understanding the skills, experience levels, and compensation expectations outlined in this guide, you can make informed decisions about recruiting top marketing talent in Belgium. With appropriate legal and administrative support, particularly through an Employer of Record like Asanify, you can efficiently integrate Belgian marketing expertise into your organization while maintaining full compliance with local regulations.

Whether you’re looking to expand your European digital presence, optimize multilingual campaigns, or bring fresh strategic perspectives to your marketing team, Belgian SEO and performance marketing strategists can provide the expertise and cultural insights to drive meaningful results across markets.

    Not to be considered as tax, legal, financial or HR advice. Regulations change over time so please consult a lawyer, accountant  or Labour Law  expert for specific guidance.