Energy Switzerland: Kevin Gander becomes new CEO
Effective December 1, Kevin Gander (38) will take over as CEO and, concurrently, as Chief Radio Officer of Energy Schweiz, the leading Swiss entertainment company with operations in radio, events, and digital media. He succeeds Pascal Frei (48), who is leaving Energy Switzerland after holding various positions—including four years as CEO.
Kevin Gander currently works at Gassmann Media in Biel, most recently as CEO and Head of Business Administration. Under his leadership, numerous steps were taken for the future of Gassmann Media, which led to significant increases in sales in the area of radio and TV sponsorship. Previously, as Head of Digital, he was responsible for the digitalization strategy and its implementation. During his time as program director at Radio Canal 3, he increased listener numbers and established successful event specials. Kevin Gander has many years of professional experience in communications and marketing, including at Helion Solar AG and vonRoll hydro (suisse) AG. He holds an EMBA in Digital Transformation from the University of Applied Sciences Graubünden and a Master MAS in Communication Management and Leadership from the ZHAW.
Patrick Vogt, Chairman of the Board of Directors: "Kevin Gander brings with him experience as a radio producer and as CEO of a media company. He has made a significant contribution to the further development and success of Gassmann Media. I look forward to working with him and wish him a good start and every success in managing Energy."
Following the successful reorganization of Energy Switzerland, Pascal Frei will officially hand over his duties to Kevin Gander on 1 December and will support him in an advisory capacity until spring 2025.
Patrick Vogt: "On behalf of the entire Board of Directors, I would like to thank Pascal Frei for his leadership and personal commitment and wish him every success for his professional and personal future. Pascal Frei took over the helm in 2020 at a challenging time and led Energy well through the coronavirus period. The portfolio was later expanded to include two more Energy stations in St. Gallen and Lucerne. In addition, the reach of the DAB+ station Vintage Radio was steadily expanded and is now one of the top 10 largest private radio stations in Switzerland. In recent months, Pascal Frei has successfully implemented a comprehensive cost program to make Energy fit for the future in Switzerland."
With 654,000 listeners every day, Energy is the most successful private radio network in Switzerland and one of the leading Swiss media brands on social media. The event portfolio includes events such as Energy Air, Energy Star Night and Energy Live Sessions. Energy has locations in Basel, Bern, Lucerne, St. Gallen and Zurich.
