Dirk Klee will be the new Country Head for Switzerland at Blackrock, as announced by the American investment manager on Tuesday evening.

Dirk Klee will assume his new role in October, succeeding Mirjam Staub-Bisang. Staub-Bisang, who has led Blackrock's operations in Switzerland for nearly six years, expressed her desire for a change earlier this year, according to an internal memo reviewed by finews.ch. Pending the necessary approvals, she will transition to the role of Senior Advisor and Chair of Blackrock Switzerland.

Previous Experience with Blackrock

Mirjam Staub-Bisang has been recognized for her significant role in driving BlackRock's commercial growth in Switzerland and positioning the firm as a leader in sustainable investments, according to the internal announcement.

Dirk Klee is what Blackrock internally refers to as a «boomerang»—a returnee. From 2008 to 2013, the German-born Klee served as Country Head for Germany at BGI and later at Blackrock.

VP Bank Faces Board Search

The news may not be well received at VP Bank, where Klee currently serves as a board member. Last week, the Liechtenstein banking group reported disappointing half-year results and announced job cuts.

According to VP Bank, Dirk Klee will leave the board at the end of September.

Temporary arrangement for the Audit Committee

VP Bank has stated that Ursula Lang will temporarily assume Klee's responsibilities on the Audit Committee and the Strategy & Digitalisation Committee. The board intends to propose a successor at the 2025 General Meeting.

An der nächsten Generalversammlung 2025 will der Verwaltungsrat eine Nachfolge zur Wahl stellen.

Expanding Blackrock′s Presence

At Blackrock, Klee is expected to enhance the local presence of the American investment manager in Switzerland, intensify strategic dialogue with clients and key stakeholders, and create «new opportunities for the company.»