Nico Luchsinger becomes the new CEO of the Gottlieb Duttweiler Institute

The Gottlieb Duttweiler Institute is getting new leadership: On July 1, 2026, Nico Luchsinger will assume the role of CEO of Switzerland’s oldest think tank. He succeeds Jennifer Somm, who has led the institute on an interim basis since 2025.

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Nico Luchsinger becomes the new CEO of the Gottlieb Duttweiler Institute. Source: zvg

On July 1, 2026, Nico Luchsinger will become CEO of the Gottlieb Duttweiler Institute (GDI). The Migros Group institute, based in Rüschlikon, is Switzerland's first and oldest think tank and researches important issues for the future, such as society, the economy and technology.

Nico Luchsinger (43) has broad experience in various areas, from media and start-ups to international organizations. Most recently, he was Executive Director of the Asia Society Switzerland, a foundation dedicated to promoting Asian expertise in Switzerland. In various positions there over the last 10 years, he has played a key role in building up the organization and establishing it as an important platform for business, politics and society.

Previously, he worked at Mila, a digital marketplace for household and technology services, which was later acquired by Swisscom. He also co-founded the international entrepreneur platform Sandbox and built it up as CEO. This connects young entrepreneurs from all over the world.

In all of these roles, the aim was to promote new ideas, network people and further develop organizations. Exactly what the GDI also focuses on.

Andrea Krapf, Head of Engagement at the Migros Group, is delighted: «In Nico Luchsinger, the Gottlieb Duttweiler Institute has gained a visionary and experienced leader who knows how to network people and drive innovative ideas forward. I am convinced that he will further strengthen the GDI in its role as a think tank and provide decisive impetus for the future.»

«The Gottlieb Duttweiler Institute is a unique place where the big questions of our time are discussed and new perspectives are developed. I look forward to working with the GDI team to drive forward bold ideas and further promote dialog on the future of society, the economy, technology and geopolitics,» says Nico Luchsinger.

Jennifer Somm has managed the GDI ad interim with a high degree of professionalism in recent months and created stability during an important phase. She will remain in office until July 10, 2026 and will ensure a smooth handover. Migros would like to thank her warmly for her great commitment and valuable contribution to the institute.

With Nico Luchsinger at the helm, the GDI wants to further strengthen its role as a place for new ideas and discussions and continue to offer guidance on the major issues of our time.

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