Regula Berger has been appointed as the new CEO of Basler Kantonalbank (BKB), one of Switzerland's largest cantonal banks. This comes at a time when the bank is dealing with the controversial case of René Benko, an Austrian entrepreneur.
Berger, who previously served as the bank's General Counsel and Head of Commercial Client Sales, is taking over from Basil Heeb, who left due to commuting challenges. Berger's rise to the top position is notable, considering her unconventional path in the banking sector. She spent over a decade in the legal department of Zürcher Kantonalbank (ZKB) before joining BKB in 2018. Her appointment as Head of Commercial Client Sales was part of a plan to groom her for the CEO role.
The ongoing scrutiny surrounding René Benko has raised questions about the due diligence processes at BKB. Berger, as the former top legal advisor, was involved in the bank's dealings with corporate clients, potentially including Benko. The valuation of the Globus property in Basel, which served as the basis for a loan provided by BKB, has prompted inquiries into the assessment process and decision-making behind the loan's approval.
Berger's leadership style is characterized by a blend of professionalism and personal passion. She has expressed her love for playing the alphorn, a traditional Swiss musical instrument, which she sees as a form of meditation and connection to nature. This personal ritual reflects her approach to leadership. Berger's unique background and experiences position her as a transformative figure within the bank, fostering a culture of innovation and responsiveness.
As CEO, Berger faces the challenge of navigating the fallout from the Benko situation and positioning BKB for future growth. Transparency in governance and risk management is crucial given the scrutiny surrounding the bank's financial decisions. Berger's legal background may help her navigate these complexities effectively. Additionally, the banking sector is undergoing significant transformation, and Berger's leadership will be crucial in ensuring that BKB remains competitive and responsive to these shifts.
In summary, Regula Berger's appointment as CEO of Basler KB is significant as the bank deals with internal and external challenges. Her legal expertise and personal passion for leadership will define her tenure as she guides BKB through a period of uncertainty and opportunity.