Leadership Change at Oddo BHF Switzerland: New CEO and Chairman Named

European financial group Oddo BHF is reshaping its leadership structure in Switzerland as it enters a new phase of expansion. The firm announced the appointment of Philippe Oddo as Chairman of the Board and Hannes Gallus as the new CEO of Oddo BHF (Switzerland) AG, pending approval from the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority (Finma). These leadership changes signal Oddo BHF’s intention to strengthen its Swiss operations and broaden its influence in Europe’s competitive banking landscape.

Strengthening Leadership for the Next Growth Phase

The appointments mark a pivotal moment for Oddo BHF’s Swiss division. Philippe Oddo, the group’s Managing Partner, will now also lead the board in Zurich, reinforcing strategic alignment between the Swiss branch and the wider European network. His dual role is expected to enhance coordination on investment strategy, digital banking innovation, and cross-border client services.

Meanwhile, Hannes Gallus, who has served as the company’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Chief Risk Officer (CRO) since 2019, steps into the CEO position after having acted as Interim CEO since April 2025. Gallus’s deep familiarity with Swiss financial regulations and local market dynamics positions him to lead Oddo BHF’s continued growth in the region.

A Decade of Expansion and Financial Strength

Since Oddo BHF’s acquisition of BHF Bank in 2016, its Swiss arm has grown substantially. Over the past nine years, assets under management have tripled, while the number of employees and net banking income have also multiplied. This expansion underscores the group’s ability to balance growth with risk management—a key factor in maintaining financial stability amid rising interest rates and evolving credit market conditions.

Oddo BHF’s diversified model, combining private banking, asset management, and corporate advisory services, has proven resilient even during market volatility. By leveraging this mix, the firm continues to offer clients tailored solutions across loans, deposits, and investment products, appealing to both institutional investors and private clients.

Expanding into New Markets and Services

Looking forward, Oddo BHF is taking a proactive approach to growth. The bank has recently expanded its equity research and brokerage operations, now covering over 60 Swiss-listed companies, with plans to increase that number to 90 by year-end. This expansion enhances Oddo BHF’s profile in capital market services and strengthens its role in corporate financing for Swiss entrepreneurs.

Moreover, 2025 marks the group’s official entry into M&A advisory in Switzerland, an important strategic step that will connect local firms with international investors. These efforts align with Oddo BHF’s broader goal of reinforcing Switzerland’s reputation as a financial hub while supporting clients in navigating the global investment landscape.

Outlook: Innovation and Integration Ahead

The new leadership team will guide Oddo BHF Switzerland through a period of deeper integration, modernization, and digital transformation. By focusing on technology-driven banking, competitive credit offerings, and personalized advisory services, the firm aims to solidify its position among Europe’s mid-sized banking powerhouses.

Closing Insights
Oddo BHF’s leadership reshuffle underscores a broader trend in European banking—the need for strategic agility and digital evolution. As traditional institutions adapt to new technologies and client expectations, those that combine strong governance with innovative thinking will stand out.

• Expect Swiss banks to continue merging digital banking tools with personalized wealth management.

• Strategic acquisitions and partnerships will shape the next phase of competition.

• A focus on regulatory alignment and sustainable growth will remain key to long-term success.

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