Van Lanschot Kempen has appointed Simon Grossenbacher as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO) and Chief Financial Officer (CFO) in order to strengthen its presence in Switzerland.
Grossenbacher, a seasoned banker with over 27 years of experience, will officially assume his roles in early February 2025. He will begin his onboarding process in December 2024, pending regulatory approval. This appointment is a significant step for the Dutch private bank as it seeks to enhance its profile and drive growth in the competitive Swiss financial landscape.
Grossenbacher's extensive background includes a notable 25-year tenure at UBS, where he held various senior positions. He most recently served as the CEO of Sound Capital, one of Switzerland's largest independent asset managers, where he successfully navigated a regulatory transformation. Grossenbacher's academic credentials include an Executive MBA from ETH Zurich and the University of St. Gallen, further solidifying his expertise in the financial sector.
Van Lanschot Kempen, founded in Zurich in 1995, is a leading wealth manager for Dutch and Belgian clients with international interests. Despite being relatively lesser-known in Switzerland, the bank manages nearly 140 billion euros in assets under management (AuM) as of mid-2024. The bank's growth trajectory is supported by net inflows of 5.7 billion euros during the first half of the year, reflecting strong demand for its services.
With Grossenbacher as COO and CFO, Van Lanschot Kempen aims to leverage his expertise to enhance its market position. Daphne Engelke, CEO of Van Lanschot Kempen Switzerland, expressed confidence in Grossenbacher's ability to contribute to the organization's success, citing his experience in driving transformation and growth as key assets. The bank's strategic focus on expanding its footprint in Switzerland aligns with its broader objectives, which include setting new financial targets for 2027 after achieving its goals for 2022.
Van Lanschot Kempen is the oldest independent financial services company in the Netherlands, with a history dating back to 1737. The bank's commitment to serving clients with tailored wealth management solutions has been a cornerstone of its operations, particularly for those with cross-border financial needs. As the only Dutch bank operating in Switzerland, Van Lanschot Kempen's offices in Zurich and Geneva play a crucial role in catering to a niche market. With a dedicated team of approximately 40 employees, the bank is well-equipped to provide personalized services to its clientele, further enhancing its reputation as a trusted partner in wealth management.
Grossenbacher's appointment is significant given the evolving regulatory landscape in the financial sector. His previous experience in leading regulatory transformations at Sound Capital positions him well to navigate the complexities of compliance and governance. As banks face increased scrutiny from regulators, having a leader with a proven track record in this area is invaluable.
Van Lanschot Kempen's future prospects are promising with Grossenbacher's leadership. The bank's ambitious plans for the future, coupled with its strong foundation in wealth management, position it well to capitalize on emerging opportunities in the financial sector. By leveraging Grossenbacher's expertise and the bank's established reputation, the organization aims to enhance its service offerings and attract a broader client base. As it navigates the challenges and opportunities ahead, the focus will remain on delivering exceptional value to clients while maintaining a commitment to regulatory compliance and operational excellence.