Johan Klaps (1970) was born in Maaseik. He graduated as a translator English-Italian in Antwerp and completed his academic career with additional studies in International Politics. After his studies and a year working as a tour guide in the United States, he entered the banking and insurance sector, where he became the managing director of his own branches. In 2019, he began working as a consultant. He became Head of Direct Network at Ethias and launched a digital platform for circular building in Flanders. His political career started in 2012, when he was elected city councilor for N-VA in Antwerp. From 2014 to 2018, he was active in federal politics as a member of the Belgian Chamber of Representatives. In October 2024, he was appointed Vice Mayor for the Port, Urban Development, Spatial Planning and Patrimony. Since January 2025, he has been serving as Vice Mayor for the Port and Economy, combining his policy vision with years of business experience.