In the section Backstage, interesting personalities from the financial sector and beyond provide insights into their personal preferences every Wednesday.

Mr. Schlegel, what is the first thing you do in the morning?

A good coffee is essential – after that, I get an overview of the most important emails and markets, prioritize the key topics, and start the day in a structured way.

What is the best part of your job?

The international exchange with people from different cultures, combined with working in a highly dynamic and strategically demanding market environment.

A moment that changed your life?

The birth of my two sons. It fundamentally and sustainably changed my perspective on responsibility, time, and priorities.

Which cars do you own? Which is your favorite?

I drive a sporty electric vehicle. The combination of innovative technology, sustainability, and performance convinces me.

What advice would you give your 20-year-old self?

Follow your passion consistently, stay curious, and have the courage to make uncomfortable decisions. Growth usually happens outside your comfort zone.

What are you particularly proud of?

The team I have been able to build over the past years – highly skilled, motivated, and shaped by a culture of mutual trust and respect.

What do you do when you have doubts?

I consciously seek exchange with my peers and my team. Different perspectives sharpen decision-making and improve the quality of outcomes.

What is your favorite wine?

Pingus de Florès – a wine with character and depth, combining power and elegance in a distinctive way.

What projects are you currently working on?

Expanding into new markets across the EMEA region, as well as the strategic and practical integration of AI into sales and analytics processes.

What do you admire in other people?

Determination and authenticity – especially when people pursue their passion with conviction while staying true to themselves.

What would be the biggest surprise for someone taking over your job for a day?

The depth of research behind our highly diversified product offering, as well as the complexity and dynamism of the underlying markets and sectors.

What drives you personally?

Sustainable success for clients, the company, and the team – creating long-term value rather than short-term effects.

What are you afraid of?

Serious illness. It puts many things into perspective and shifts priorities radically.

Your favorite watch brand?

I bought my last Swiss watch around 25 years ago – it still works perfectly today, a symbol of quality, durability, and precision.

Is there an unfulfilled dream you would still like to realize?

There are still many places in the world I would like to travel to and discover.

Your best investment?

Recently, our gold miners ETF – GDXJ, which captures the dynamics of smaller producers and offers targeted diversification potential.

Philipp Schlegel is Co-Head of Sales at the Swiss office of VanEck. He is responsible for market growth in the EMEA region, business development, and is a member of the European Management Committee. Since joining in 2010, he has brought extensive experience, including leadership roles at Horizon21 Alternative Investments and Man Group/RMF. He began his career at UBS in Zurich and London in FX, interest rate, and precious metals trading.