Different opinions about necessary implementation steps required for the strategic further development led to this decision. The Board of Directors appreciates Stefan Heiniger’s high personal commitment and his contributions and wishes him all the best and much success for his future.
As of 1st March 2017, the Board of Directors appointed Barend Fruithof as new CEO. Barend Fruithof is a skilled farmer and holds a degree as Executive MBA of the University of St. Gallen. He began his professional career in agricultural enterprises before he completed a successful career in the banking sector. In addition to further management functions, he worked for Raiffeisen Switzerland as financial officer and was head of the Credit Suisse's corporate banking business for seven years.
Chairman of the Board of Directors, Walter T. Vogel: "We are delighted to win Barend Fruithof who is a charismatic leader with a wide range of experience. He is familiar with key aspects of our target markets and brings a high degree of financial knowledge. In addition, he understands how to motivate employees, to respond to customer needs and to position business in a changing environment.”
Barend Fruithof is 50 years old and Swiss citizen.