Nico Bogaerts

Nico joined Smile Sail at the beginning of 2025. He brings over 20 years of experience in SaaS software, including 8 years in M&A at Wolters Kluwer and SD Worx, as well as 4 years leading a high-growth SaaS fintech scale-up.

As Head of M&A at SD Worx, a leading European provider of HR and payroll services, Nico was responsible for driving the group-wide strategic M&A agenda and overseeing transaction execution across multiple European markets. His broad international experience, having worked across various countries and cultures, includes the successful completion of multiple acquisitions in more than 15 countries.

In his prior role as CEO of Basecone, the company achieved substantial ARR growth over a four-year period. He successfully scaled teams across Portugal, India, and the Netherlands from 35 to over 120 people, while formulating a strategic product vision and roadmap that leveraged machine learning and AI to advance the company’s pre-accounting solution.

Earlier in his career at Wolters Kluwer, Nico played a pivotal role in the digital transformation of the Tax & Accounting division in Europe through targeted SaaS acquisitions. This followed over a decade of experience within the company’s Transport Services division, where he held various roles focusing on M&A, strategic partnerships, innovation, and corporate initiatives.

Beyond his professional pursuits, Nico has a passion for travel, a wide range of cultural interests, and values quality time with family and friends.