Swiss Bank Julius Baer Appoints Goldman Sachs Partner Stefan Bollinger as New CEO

​Swiss private bank Julius Baer announced the appointment of Stefan Bollinger as its new chief executive, effective no later than February 1, 2025. Bollinger, who currently serves as co-head of private wealth management for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa at Goldman Sachs in London, will succeed Philipp Rickenbacher. Rickenbacher was dismissed earlier this year following a substantial loss on loans to the now-collapsed Signa Group.

Romeo Lacher, Chairman of Julius Baer, praised Bollinger for his exceptional track record in global banking and wealth management, highlighting his role in significantly expanding Goldman Sachs' presence across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Under Bollinger's leadership, Goldman's private wealth management business in these regions saw its assets under management more than double over the past five years. Lacher noted that Bollinger’s experience encompasses a deep understanding of risk, products, and client value in global wealth management.

Bollinger, a 50-year-old Swiss national, began his career at Zuercher Kantonalbank and has held significant positions at J.P. Morgan before his 14-year tenure at Goldman Sachs. He expressed enthusiasm about joining Julius Baer, acknowledging the challenge of guiding the bank through a period of turbulence. The bank had recently faced financial difficulties, including a significant write-down on loans and a decrease in its share price.

Earlier this year, Julius Baer explored a potential merger with EFG International, but Swiss regulatory concerns halted the discussions. The appointment of Bollinger is expected to steer the bank towards stabilization and growth.