Head of Private Banking Switzerland — Benelux Markets

Build a franchise. Join the Executive Committee. Shape the Swiss future of a heritage private bank.

JOlivier & Partners is supporting a well-established, family-owned European private bank in the appointment of its Head of Private Banking Switzerland, with a focus on clients from the Benelux markets.

The Organisation & Context

Our client has a long heritage in wealth management and a strong reputation for personal service, independent advice and lasting client relationships. As part of its growth strategy in Switzerland, the bank is looking for an entrepreneurial senior private banker to develop its Swiss activities across Geneva and Zurich. The successful candidate will join the local Executive Management team and, over time, is expected to take broader leadership responsibility for the Swiss entity.

Key Responsibilities

Commercial development

• Define and implement the commercial strategy for the Swiss market and strengthen the bank’s presence in Geneva and Zurich.
• Prospect and acquire new HNW and UHNW clients, with a particular focus on clients connected to the bank’s core European markets.
• Build and manage a personal client portfolio, advising clients alongside specialists in investments, wealth planning, tax and estate planning.
• Develop strategic partnerships and a strong network of professional intermediaries.
• Lead, coach and develop the local commercial team.

Management of the Swiss entity

• Contribute to the overall management and strategic direction of the Swiss entity, including financial performance, budgeting, governance and organisation.
• Support talent management, leadership development and HR matters.
• Prepare and follow up Executive Management, Board and General Meeting activities, and coordinate internal and external audits with the bank’s international functions.
• Initiate and lead strategic projects supporting long-term growth, and represent the bank with clients, employees and external stakeholders.

Candidate Profile

• At least ten years of relevant experience in wealth management.
• A proven ability to acquire, develop and retain HNW and UHNW relationships, with a clear record of converting new business.
• Strong leadership experience and the ability to develop teams.
• Knowledge of, or connections to, Belgian and Dutch private clients would be particularly relevant.
• Experience in the Swiss banking market is a strong advantage, but not essential.
• Excellent Dutch, French and English (essential); German is an advantage.
• An entrepreneurial, strategic and hands-on approach, with the diplomacy and credibility to act as an ambassador for the bank.
• Willingness to settle in Switzerland for the long term and to travel regularly between Geneva and Zurich.

The Leadership Challenge

The role asks for a rare combination: a banker who still enjoys winning clients personally, and an executive ready to share responsibility for running a regulated entity. The conversation with candidates will focus on how they have built a client franchise from a limited base and how they see their path towards leading the Swiss business.

What Is on Offer

A defining leadership role in the Swiss business of a successful international private bank, a seat on the Swiss Executive Management team with the prospect of broader responsibility, and significant entrepreneurial freedom, backed by an excellent reputation and ambitious growth plans.

Confidential Conversation

If your experience matches this mandate, apply through this page or contact João Oliveira for an initial confidential conversation about your background and objectives.