In the challenging and dynamic food and beverage industry, Bell Food Group, a Swiss producer of meats and convenience foods, is preparing for a significant leadership change as it appoints Marco Tschanz as its new CEO. Tschanz will assume the role in June 2023, taking over from current CEO Lorenz Wyss, who will retire next summer after 13 years of dedicated service to the company.
During Wyss’s tenure, Bell Food Group experienced impressive growth, with sales revenue surging from SFr2.5bn ($2.78bn) to over SFr4.3bn and the company’s workforce more than doubling in size. This success is a testament to Wyss’s leadership and strategic vision.
Starting on 1 June, Tschanz will lead the Bell Switzerland business area, which focuses on the development of meat, charcuterie, poultry, and seafood products, in addition to his role as CEO. Tschanz has been with Bell Food Group for nine years, having joined as CFO and a member of the group executive board in 2014. He has since held various important positions within the organization, including leading the international business area and managing the Eisberg business unit.
Joos Sutter, Chair of Bell Food Group, lauded Tschanz’s contributions, stating, “Marco Tschanz has demonstrated exceptional leadership within our organization, both operationally and strategically.” The company is confident that Tschanz possesses the skills and capabilities necessary to steer Bell Food Group towards continued success.
In light of Tschanz’s appointment, Mike Häfeli will become the new head of the Eisberg division starting on January 1, 2024. This transition ensures a smooth and seamless handover of responsibilities within the organization.
Reflecting its strong performance, Bell Food Group achieved impressive financial results in the first half of 2023. The company’s net revenue reached SFr2.2bn, representing a 5.4% increase, with organic growth of 6.9%. Furthermore, Bell Food Group’s EBIT, or earnings before interest and taxes, stood at SFr63.6m, a 1% increase compared to the first half of 2022. The company’s net profit was SFr46.6m, an impressive 15.9% higher than the previous year.
Commenting on his appointment, Tschanz expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “I look forward to continuing our success story, which spans over 150 years, with the support of a strong team and over 13,000 dedicated and skilled employees.” Tschanz’s leadership and strategic acumen will undoubtedly contribute to the ongoing growth and prosperity of Bell Food Group.
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