Leadership is about 
much more than 
clinical expertise

When Célestine joined Dentius as an intern in Harelbeke, she never imagined that just a few years later she would become Head Dentist. Today, she combines her work as a general dentist with a specialization in endodontics while leading and supporting her team. The Dentius Succession Program played a key role in that journey.

"I’m Célestine, 31 years old, and a general dentist with a specialization in endodontics," she says. "I completed my internship at Dentius Harelbeke, where I initially worked part-time. Later, I stayed on full-time, and for the past year I’ve been working as Head Dentist."

When she enrolled in the Dentius Succession Program, she wasn't yet certain that she wanted to take on that leadership role.

"What attracted me most was the opportunity to keep developing myself. I’ve always enjoyed learning, both professionally and personally."

Célestine started the program with a clear goal: to gain a better understanding of how Dentius operates and to discover the kind of leader she wanted to become.

"I wanted to learn how to give constructive feedback and how to motivate team members to think in a solution-oriented way. Instead of always providing the answers, I wanted to learn how to coach people and guide them towards finding their own solutions."

The program exceeded her expectations. The leadership modules delivered by Mercuri Urval stood out in particular.

"The interactive approach immediately brought the theory to life through practical exercises. The group itself was also incredibly valuable. Everyone shared the same ambition: becoming a better leader. Exchanging experiences, discussing challenges and brainstorming solutions together gave me many practical insights that I still use today."

The coaching and support throughout the program also left a lasting impression.

"The coaching was very supportive and there was genuine attention for everyone's individual learning goals. We had a great group dynamic, which made it easy to openly share our challenges. Throughout the program, I felt encouraged to step outside my comfort zone and develop new skills."

For Célestine, leadership goes far beyond being an excellent clinician.

"As Head Dentist, I support my colleagues from a clinical perspective, but I also help shape a shared vision for our practice. At the same time, I carry organisational responsibility. I've learned that a good leader listens to different opinions before taking ownership and making decisions that move the practice forward."

One of the biggest changes the Dentius Succession Program brought about was the way she supports her colleagues.

"In the past, I was quick to offer solutions or suggest decisions. Today, I ask more open questions, such as 'What options have you already considered?' or 'Why did you make that decision?'. I notice that people come up with their own solutions and take greater ownership of their work."

She now also adopts a more coaching-oriented approach when motivating her team.

"By asking powerful questions, you encourage people to reflect on their own motivations. They often discover for themselves why they're facing certain challenges. That creates stronger engagement and leads to more sustainable solutions."

According to Célestine, Dentius offers ambitious young dentists every opportunity to grow.

"The Dentius Succession Program is a fantastic springboard. On top of that, I experience every day how much support is available within Dentius. Together with my colleagues and our Practice Coordinator, Tatjana, we form a close-knit team. I always have someone to exchange ideas with, someone who listens, and someone I can turn to for a second opinion when making important decisions. I'm truly grateful to Dentius for giving dentists the opportunity to grow and take on greater responsibility within their practice."

She doesn't hesitate for a second.

"Don't think twice—just apply. Why wouldn't you? The program shows you that leadership is about much more than clinical expertise. You'll learn from outstanding speakers, gain practical tools you can apply immediately, and develop skills that will benefit you throughout your entire career."