Thomas Bauer will become Interim Chairman of the Board of Directors of Basellandschaftliche Kantonalbank (BLKB). This decision was made by the government council of the Canton of Basel-Landschaft at its meeting on Tuesday.

According to a press release issued on Wednesday, Bauer will assume his role on September 1, 2025.

«By appointing Thomas Bauer as Interim Chairman of the BLKB Board of Directors, the government council is ensuring the bank’s leadership and creating optimal conditions until a future chairperson of the board and a new CEO are appointed,» the statement said.

Former Chairman of FINMA’s Board of Directors

Thomas Bauer is an independent expert, particularly in the field of banking law. For several years, he served on expert committees of the Swiss Bankers Association and the Association of Foreign Banks in Switzerland. Bauer was also Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FINMA).

«The government council is convinced that with his extensive and versatile experience in financial and banking law, his network, and his strong ties to the region, Thomas Bauer will bring the necessary calm and foresight to the role of Interim Chairman,» the statement continued.

Appointment Limited to One Year

At the same time, the government council expressed its gratitude to Nadia Tarolli Schmidt, who had temporarily assumed the chairmanship on an interim basis as Deputy Chair of the Board.

Bauer’s appointment is limited to a maximum of one year. Preparations for the election of a new permanent chairperson are already underway, according to BLKB: «The goal is to fill the position by July 1, 2026, although an earlier election and handover is being pursued.»