Michael «Mike» Bär, the great-grandson of Julius Bär—the founder of the eponymous Zurich-based private bank—established MBaer Merchant Bank in December 2018. Now, he is stepping down as CEO to focus on client relations and oversee the Merchant Banking division.

Taking over as CEO is Annett Viehweg, formerly Head of Corporate Banking at MBaer.

Strengthened Regulatory Oversight

In tandem with the leadership change, the bank is bolstering its regulatory focus. Hendrik Weber-Grellet, now Chief Risk Officer, will also assume responsibility for compliance. Irina Buholzer has been appointed as the new Chief Operating Officer (COO).

The updated leadership team at MBaer Merchant Bank is as follows:

• Annett Viehweg (CEO)
• Mike Bär (Head of Merchant Banking)
• Irina Buholzer (Chief Operating Officer)
• Melanie Chopard (Chief Financial Officer)
• Hendrik Weber-Grellet (Chief Risk Officer)

Changes Effective January 1, 2025

The restructuring took effect retroactively as of January 1, 2025. Staff were informed on Friday, the first business day of the year, followed by a formal announcement on the bank’s website.

New CEO Tasked with Expanding Business Lines

Viehweg brings over 30 years of experience in the banking and financial industry. She spent more than 26 years in various senior roles at Deutsche Bank and several years at Sberbank Switzerland. 

Her expertise will be crucial in expanding MBaer’s merchant banking-focused business model. The bank has recently faced challenges, particularly due to intensified sanctions following the Ukraine conflict.

«Exciting Challenges Ahead»

«We face exciting challenges and opportunities,» Viehweg stated.

Founder Mike Bär expressed his confidence in her leadership: «I am delighted that Annett Viehweg will take on the responsibility of leading MBaer as CEO. With her international experience and extensive expertise, she is ideally positioned to drive MBaer’s future business development in a demanding environment alongside an experienced leadership team.»