The executive search firm Stellar Executive Search, in collaboration with consulting firm ADVEA, conducted a market analysis among independent asset managers, focusing on growth prospects, HR strategies, and succession issues.

According to the study, 72 percent of the surveyed firms expect to gain market share in the coming years. Around 70 percent are planning to actively expand their client base. Larger providers in particular are pursuing ambitious recruitment goals.

Shortcomings in Talent Development

The analysis estimates that more than 1,000 additional relationship managers (RMs) will be needed in the EAM sector by 2026. Many firms are seeking to recruit experienced advisors from the private banking sector. At the same time, the study identifies gaps in talent development and a lack of structured employer branding efforts.

Succession planning also remains an area for improvement: Nearly 60 percent of the surveyed EAMs are expected to face a leadership transition within the next three to five years, yet 28 percent have not defined a succession plan. While internal solutions are often preferred, many lack appropriate development frameworks.

«A Future Opportunity»

«The market will continue to consolidate, and evaluating all options as well as preparing a smooth handover will become a real future opportunity,» says Thomas Bossard, initiator of the market analysis and partner at Stellar Executive Search.

The study is based on qualitative interviews with independent asset managers in Switzerland and Liechtenstein. The surveyed firms manage client assets ranging from under 1 billion francs to over 5 billion francs.