Famous Swiss Business People

Otto Heinrich Frank played a crucial role in preserving his daughter Anne Frank's legacy through his work on the publication, adaptation, and charitable endeavors related to her diary. He edited and published the first edition of Anne's diary, advised on its theatrical and cinematic adaptations, and established European charities in her name. Otto also founded the trust that maintained the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam, the wartime hiding place of his family. His professional life was dedicated to honoring and sharing Anne's story with the world.

Henry Dunant was a Swiss businessman, humanitarian, social activist, and co-founder of the Red Cross. He witnessed the suffering of wounded soldiers after the Battle of Solferino, prompting him to advocate for the establishment of an organization to provide aid without discrimination in times of war. His efforts led to the formation of the International Committee of the Red Cross and the signing of the First Geneva Convention. Despite facing bankruptcy and expulsion, Dunant's work was recognized with the Nobel Peace Prize in 1901.

Jorge Paulo Lemann is a Brazilian billionaire investment banker, businessman, and former tennis player with dual Brazilian and Swiss citizenship. He co-founded the global investment firm 3G Capital, which has ownership of major brands such as Burger King, Anheuser-Busch, and Heinz. Lemann has achieved significant success in the business world and became the richest person in Brazil in March 2023, with a net worth of US$17 billion (R$86.1 billion). His entrepreneurial ventures and strategic investments have solidified his position as a prominent figure in the finance and corporate sectors.

Ernesto Bertarelli is a billionaire businessman and philanthropist known for his success in various industries. His wealth has been estimated in the billions by publications like the Sunday Times Rich List and Swiss magazine Bilanz. He has been recognized for his significant contributions to business and philanthropy, with a notable presence on the Bloomberg Billionaires Index. Bertarelli's professional endeavors have solidified his reputation as a prominent figure in the business world, demonstrating his acumen and success in wealth accumulation and charitable endeavors.

Dieter Meier is a renowned Swiss musician, conceptual artist, and entrepreneur. He is best known as the frontman of the electronic music group Yello, which he co-founded with music producer Boris Blank and ex-member Carlos Perón. Meier serves as the vocalist, lyricist, manager, and producer of the group. His professional life is marked by his contributions to Yello's innovative sound and his work as a conceptual artist. Meier's multifaceted talents have solidified his reputation as a pioneering figure in the music industry.

Nicolas Hayek was a Swiss businessman known for his role as the co-founder, CEO, and Chairman of The Swatch Group. He played a pivotal role in revitalizing the Swiss watch industry in the 1980s by introducing the iconic Swatch brand. Hayek's innovative marketing strategies and management style helped transform the company into a global leader in the watchmaking industry. His visionary leadership and business acumen solidified his reputation as a prominent figure in the world of horology, leaving a lasting impact on the industry.

Margarita Louis-Dreyfus is a highly successful businesswoman known for her role as chairperson of the Louis-Dreyfus Group. With a background in business and finance, she has risen to become a billionaire through her strategic leadership and management skills. Her expertise in running a multinational corporation has solidified her reputation as a prominent figure in the business world. Margarita's dedication to her company's growth and success has earned her recognition as a powerful and influential leader in the global business community.

Ivan Glasenberg is a prominent South African business executive known for his role as the former CEO of Glencore, a major player in commodity trading and mining. Serving as CEO from 2002 to 2021, Glasenberg oversaw significant growth and operations expansion during his tenure. With citizenship in South Africa, Australia, and Switzerland, he has made a mark in the global business community. Apart from his leadership at Glencore, he also holds a position on the board of Minara Resources Ltd, further showcasing his expertise in the mining sector.

Marc Faber is a Swiss investor based in Thailand known for publishing the Gloom Boom & Doom Report newsletter and serving as the director of Marc Faber Ltd, which offers investment advice and fund management services. He has also been involved as a director, advisor, and shareholder in various investment funds focused on emerging and frontier markets, including the AFC Asia Frontier Fund. Faber gained recognition for accurately predicting the 1987 stock market crash and the 2007-2008 financial crisis, but has faced criticism for racist remarks made in 2017.

Daniel Lucius Vasella is a Swiss medical doctor, author, and executive known for his leadership roles at Novartis AG, where he served as CEO and chairman. Despite a decrease in Novartis shares during his tenure, Vasella was recognized for his influence in the pharmaceutical industry. He received a significant "golden handshake" upon his departure. Vasella later joined the board of directors at XBiotech, Inc, a biopharmaceutical company in Texas focused on therapeutic antibodies. He has been honored by prestigious organizations and publications for his contributions to business and healthcare.

Philippe Suchard was a prominent Swiss chocolatier, industrialist, and entrepreneur known for founding Chocolat Suchard in 1826. Through his innovative approach and dedication to quality, he revolutionized the chocolate industry, establishing a legacy that continues to thrive today. Suchard's commitment to excellence and business acumen enabled his company to achieve widespread success and recognition, solidifying his reputation as a pioneering figure in the world of confectionery. His contributions to the industry have left an indelible mark on the history of chocolate production.

Nathaniel Philip Victor James Rothschild is a British-born financier and chairman of Volex plc, a UK-listed manufacturer. He has a diverse portfolio of international business interests. Rothschild became the 5th Baron Rothschild following his father's passing in 2024. Additionally, he holds Montenegrin citizenship.

Meyer Guggenheim was a prominent figure in the business world, known for his successful ventures that led to the establishment of the Guggenheim family's wealth. He played a key role in building the family's fortune, overseeing business activities that contributed to their status as one of the wealthiest families in the United States. Guggenheim's business acumen and strategic investments allowed the family to thrive financially, positioning them as influential figures in the business and financial sectors during the 19th and 20th centuries.

Barbara Berlusconi is an Italian business executive with a strong background in advisory roles and corporate leadership. She currently serves as an advisor to the board of Fininvest, showcasing her expertise in strategic decision-making and business development. Previously, she held influential positions as vice-chairman and CEO on the board of directors of A.C. Milan, demonstrating her capabilities in managing a prominent sports organization. Berlusconi's professional journey highlights her commitment to driving success in both corporate and sports sectors through her leadership and strategic insights.

Julius Maggi, a Swiss entrepreneur, made significant contributions to the food industry by inventing precooked soups and Maggi sauce. His most notable achievement was founding the company Maggi, which later merged with Nestle in 1947. Through his innovative products, Maggi revolutionized the way people prepared and enjoyed food, leading to widespread popularity and success. Maggi's legacy as a pioneer in convenience foods and flavor enhancers continues to be celebrated in the culinary world, showcasing his enduring impact on the industry.

Monisha Kaltenborn is an Austrian professional known for her significant role as the former team principal of the Sauber Formula One team. With a 33.3% stake in the team, she also served as its chief executive officer from January 2010 to June 2017. Kaltenborn made history as the first female team principal in Formula One, showcasing her leadership and expertise in the high-pressure world of motorsport. Her tenure ended following the takeover of Sauber by Longbow Finance S.A. in July 2016.

Princess Nina of Greece and Denmark is a Swiss businesswoman, heiress, and socialite. She is the founder and creative director of the Kisawa Sanctuary and the Bazaruto Center for Scientific Studies in Mozambique. With experience as the creative director of VistaJet, a luxury private airline company, she has a background in the aviation industry. Princess Nina's professional endeavors showcase her leadership in creating innovative and environmentally conscious initiatives, contributing to both conservation efforts and luxury travel experiences.

Pinchas Tibor Rosenbaum was a Hungarian-born Swiss Jewish rabbi and businessman who played a significant role in various aspects of Jewish community leadership and support. He was known for his heroic efforts in saving hundreds of Jews during the Holocaust. Post-war, he engaged in extensive business activities related to the economy of Israel. Additionally, he contributed to the security and intelligence efforts of the newly established State of Israel, working closely with Mossad on intelligence matters.

Simone Tata is a prominent Indian businesswoman with a successful career in the corporate world. She joined the Lakme Board in 1962 and became its chairperson in 1982. She later served as the Non-Executive Chairman of Trent Ltd. until 2006. Simone was appointed to the board of Tata Industries in 1989. Recognizing growth in the retail sector, she orchestrated the sale of Lakmé to Hindustan Lever Limited in 1996 and established Trent with the proceeds. The acquisition led to the creation of the popular Westside brand and stores under Trent.

Kojo Adeyemo Annan is a prominent businessman with a diverse professional background. He has demonstrated leadership in various business ventures and is known for his entrepreneurial acumen. Throughout his career, Kojo has been involved in a wide range of industries, showcasing his versatility and adaptability. He has a track record of successful business endeavors and is recognized for his strategic thinking and innovative approach to problem-solving. Kojo's professional journey is marked by a commitment to excellence and a drive for continuous growth and development.

Rolf Dobelli is a Swiss author and entrepreneur known for his work in the field of literature and business. He has gained recognition for his insightful writings on various topics, offering valuable perspectives and advice to his readers. Dobelli is highly regarded for his ability to communicate complex ideas in a clear and engaging manner, making his work accessible to a wide audience. Through his entrepreneurial endeavors, he has demonstrated a knack for innovation and strategic thinking, contributing to his success in both the literary and business worlds.

Peter Robert Voser is a Swiss businessman known for his leadership roles in prominent multinational corporations. He began his career at Royal Dutch Shell in 1982, holding various finance and business positions. Voser served as the CFO for both ABB and Royal Dutch Shell from 2002 to 2005 before being appointed as Shell's CFO in 2004 and later becoming the CEO in 2009. He has also held the position of interim CEO at ABB. Voser's career highlights include his tenure as CEO of Royal Dutch Shell and his current role as chairman of ABB.

Philipp Hildebrand is a prominent Swiss banker known for his significant roles in global financial institutions. He has been serving as a vice chairman at BlackRock since 2012, bringing valuable expertise to the firm. Prior to this, he held key positions such as Chairman of the Governing Board at the Swiss National Bank, Governor of the International Monetary Fund, Director of the Bank of International Settlements, and member of the Financial Stability Board. His impressive career trajectory showcases his expertise and influence in the financial sector.

Gérald Charles Genta was a renowned Swiss watchmaker and artist known for creating iconic timepieces under his eponymous brands, as well as collaborating with prestigious watch manufacturers like IWC, Omega, Universal Genève, Patek Philippe, and Audemars Piguet. His designs include the Patek Philippe Nautilus and the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak, both highly successful models. Genta's work has been hailed as the "Fabergé of watches" by Christie's auction house and described as the "world's most complicated and pricey watches" by The Wall Street Journal. He is considered a highly influential figure in horology history.

Nayla Hayek is a prominent Swiss businesswoman known for her leadership roles in The Swatch Group and its subsidiary, Harry Winston. As the chair of The Swatch Group and CEO of Harry Winston, she has played a pivotal role in the success and growth of these renowned companies. Hayek's expertise in the luxury goods industry and her strategic vision have been instrumental in driving innovation, expanding market presence, and maintaining the brands' esteemed reputation. Her contributions have solidified her reputation as a respected figure in the business world.

Klaus Johann Jacobs was a prominent figure in the coffee and chocolate industry. With Swiss citizenship, he made a significant impact as a billionaire entrepreneur. Known for his business acumen, Jacobs was a key player in the growth and success of various coffee and chocolate enterprises. His strategic vision and leadership skills helped him build a successful career in the industry. Jacobs' legacy includes his contributions to the development and expansion of coffee and chocolate businesses, leaving a lasting mark on the sector.

Urs Rohner is a Swiss lawyer, businessman, and banker who has held prominent positions within the corporate world. He served as the CEO of ProSiebenSat.1 Media and as the chairman of Swiss bank Credit Suisse. During his tenure at Credit Suisse, the bank experienced a significant decline in its share price, losing 75% of its value and becoming embroiled in multiple scandals. Rohner faced criticism for his leadership, with many considering him one of the worst chairmen in Swiss banking history.

Jacqui Safra, a Swiss billionaire investor, hails from Geneva and is a prominent figure in the financial world. He is recognized for his successful career as an investor and entrepreneur, leveraging his expertise to navigate the complexities of the global market. With a strong background in finance and a keen business acumen, Safra has made significant contributions to various industries. His strategic investments and business ventures have solidified his reputation as a savvy and influential player in the financial sector.

Paul Sacher was a Swiss conductor, patron of the arts, and music impresario. He was known for his significant contributions to contemporary classical music, particularly through his support of numerous composers and premieres of new works. Sacher played a crucial role in commissioning and promoting avant-garde music, collaborating closely with composers such as Igor Stravinsky, Bela Bartok, and Pierre Boulez. His dedication to the advancement of classical music led to the creation of innovative projects like the "eSACHERe" compositions, showcasing his influence and impact on the music world.

Prakash Parmanand Hinduja is a prominent Indian-born Swiss businessman known for his leadership role as the chairman of the Hinduja Group in Europe. His business interests span various sectors including oil, gas, and banking, and he is also involved in the ownership of prestigious properties such as the Raffles London at The OWO. With a substantial net worth, he is recognized as one of Britain's wealthiest individuals. However, in June 2024, he faced legal repercussions along with family members for exploiting their domestic staff.

César Ritz, a Swiss hotelier, founded several prestigious hotels including the Hôtel Ritz in Paris and the Ritz and Carlton Hotels in London. Known as the "King of Hoteliers, and Hotelier to Kings," Ritz was an early pioneer in the hotel industry and established a reputation for luxury and excellence. His influence extended to the modern Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, with the term "ritzy" deriving from his name and the opulence associated with his hotels.

Hans Heinrich Thyssen-Bornemisza was a Dutch-born Swiss industrialist and renowned art collector. As a member of the Thyssen family, he inherited a substantial German fortune. He spent most of his adult life in Spain, where he established himself as a prominent figure in the art world. Known for his exceptional taste and vast collection, Thyssen played a significant role in promoting and preserving art and cultural heritage. Through his passion and dedication, he left a lasting legacy in the art community.

Reto Baumgartner is a retired Swiss professional footballer who played as a defender in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Following his football career, he transitioned into a successful businessman and became a member of the Basel-Stadt trade association. Baumgartner has been actively involved with FC Basel, serving on the club's board of directors since 2008. In November 2020, he assumed the role of president of the club, showcasing his strong leadership and dedication to the organization.

Benoît Violier was a renowned French-Swiss chef known for his culinary expertise and leadership in the gastronomy world. He achieved great success as the owner of the three Michelin star Restaurant de l'Hôtel de Ville in Switzerland, garnering international acclaim for his exceptional cuisine. Violier's dedication to his craft was exemplified by his restaurant topping the prestigious La Liste rankings in 2015. His legacy lives on through his culinary creations and the impact he made on the fine dining industry.

Claude Nobs was the founder and general manager of the renowned Montreux Jazz Festival, which he established at the age of 31. Under his direction, the festival grew into an international hub for jazz enthusiasts, attracting artists from around the world. Nobs also played a pivotal role in the music industry, serving as the director of the Swiss branch of Warner, Elektra, and Atlantic. His dedication to music and his heroic actions during the Montreux Casino fire earned him a lasting legacy in the music world.

Josef Ackermann is a prominent Swiss banker known for his leadership roles at major financial institutions. He served as the Chairman of the Bank of Cyprus and as the chief executive officer of Deutsche Bank, where he played a key role in shaping the bank's global strategy. Ackermann's expertise in finance led him to become a member of the Group of Thirty, a prestigious financial advisory body based in Washington. Throughout his career, he has been recognized for his significant contributions to the banking industry.