Swiss private bank Syz Bank has named Nicolas Syz as its next CEO, with effect from 1 February 2026.

He will succeed Yvan Gaillard in the role.

Nicolas, a member of the founding family, has spent the past nine years at the bank in a series of positions spanning business development and, most recently, the leadership of its wealth management operations.

Outlining his leadership approach, Nicolas said: “I believe in leading through proximity, staying close to our clients and to our teams. Private banking is built on trust, and trust cannot be established at a distance. I will continue to meet personally with our clients, entrepreneurs, families and independent asset managers.

“Our ambition is clear: to be the Swiss private bank of choice. We will achieve this by focusing on what matters most to our clients and providing solutions that support their long-term goals, in a bank where family ownership and client interests are fully aligned.”

Meanwhile, Philippe Turrian will take over as sole head of wealth management, having previously shared responsibility for the division.

Eric Syz will remain CEO of the broader Syz Group.

Commenting on the appointment, he said: “As a member of the next generation, Nicolas is uniquely positioned to lead the Bank through the great intergenerational wealth transfer.”

The leadership change comes as the bank marks its 30th year in business.

Reflecting on the milestone, Eric said: “Entering our fourth decade, we remain committed to wealth management with human care, combining bold innovation with timeless family values and bringing the personal back to private banking.”

The CEO announcement follows a series of front-office hires made in September.

James Morton joined the Zurich office as UK lead and senior banker, while Patrick Robadey was appointed to the external asset managers unit, also in Zurich.

In Geneva, Alexander Metzger took on the role of digital assets lead.