Helvetica realigns itself for the future

Helvetica Property / Key word(s): Real Estate Helvetica realigns itself for the future 15.09.2023 / 07:00 CET/CEST Press release

Zurich, 15 September 2023 – Helvetica, one of the leading real estate fund and asset management companies, is implementing organisational measures to optimise its future-oriented processes. The Executive Board is becoming more streamlined with certain roles being refilled, whilst the company’s portfolio is being optimised and its value creation chain expanded through the integration of property management.

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.