Helvetica realigns itself for the future

Growth and consolidation
Following an intense growth phase – and in the context of a new market dynamic – Helvetica is reinforcing its focus on consolidation, portfolio optimisation and risk management. As such, portfolio returns are being further optimised and funds adapted in light of new market conditions. At the same time, the management of the company is taking a yet more robust approach to ensuring it can face the challenges of the future. The current uncertain and challenging market environment requires the strategic leadership of the company to focus more strongly on orienting towards the needs of investors and, hence, on establishing leaner, more efficient processes as well as adopting a high level of digitalisation. 

The process of portfolio optimisation through the sale of non-strategic properties as part of the company’s wider strategy began in early 2023 and is being pursued on a consistent basis. At the same time, Helvetica remains committed to listing the Helvetica Swiss Living Fund (HSL Fund) by the end of 2024 as planned and is preparing for the merger of the Helvetica Swiss Opportunity Fund (HSO Fund) with the listed Helvetica Swiss Commercial Fund (HSC Fund) in order to generate more liquidity for investors. This is subject to FINMA approval.

Staff reinforcements
Urs Kunz will take on the role of CCO, Head Sales & Marketing and become a member of the Executive Board as of January 2024. Urs Kunz has many years of experience in the Swiss financial and real estate market and replaces Salman Baday, the previous Head of Sales & Marketing, who has decided to move on after six successful years in the Helvetica team. During this time, Salman Baday has made a decisive contribution to Helvetica's prosperous development. Lucas Schlageter, Head Portfolio Management, has decided to leave Helvetica after more than four intensive and dedicated years. The new Executive Board consists of Hans R. Holdener, Peter R. Vogel and Urs Kunz. The appointment of the new Head of Portfolio Management is imminent and will be communicated in due course. These changes are subject to FINMA approval.

“I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere appreciation for the terrific work that Salman Baday and Lucas Schlageter have done over the years. Their names are closely associated with our successful growth story. We look forward to continuing to write their story with new vigour and wish them all the best for their future careers”, Hans R. Holdener, CEO of Helvetica, said. 

This process goes hand in hand with personnel changes being made to the leadership of the company. Andreas Benz has been heading up the Business Development team since the beginning of the year. At the beginning of September 2023, Helvetica was able to secure an experienced Head of Legal, Risk and Compliance in Thomas Stadelmann. In addition, from October the role of Head of Marketing and Communication will be taken up by Patricia Neupert, who has many years of experience in the real estate and capital market. At Group level, Michel Hafner has recently joined the team as Head of Property Management and will be leading the process of integrating property management as an additional element of the value creation chain.

“Our consistent orientation towards new market conditions gives us the chance to develop Helvetica further with renewed strength and fresh ideas. Our 30-person strong team of experts is well equipped to achieve our strategic goals”, Dr Hans Ueli Keller, Chairman of the Helvetica Board of Directors, explained.

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