Press Release
Nico Luchsinger appointed new CEO
Rüschlikon, 31 March 2026. The Gottlieb Duttweiler Institute (GDI) has appointed a new CEO: Nico Luchsinger will take up the position of CEO of Switzerland's oldest think-tank on 1 July 2026. He will take over from Jennifer Somm, who has led the GDI on an ad interim basis since 2025.
Nico Luchsinger will assume his position as CEO of the GDI on 1 July 2026. The institute based in Rüschlikon is Switzerland's first and oldest think-tank and conducts research on issues of major importance to the future, such as on social and economic affairs and technology.
43-year-old Nico Luchsinger has gained a wealth of experience in various sectors – from media firms and start-ups to international organisations. His most recent role was Executive Director of the Asia Society Switzerland, a foundation committed to fostering "Asia Competence" in Switzerland. Having held various positions there over the past 10 years, he has played a vital role in developing the organisation and establishing it as a key platform for business, politics and society.
He previously worked at Mila, a digital marketplace for household and technology services, which was later acquired by Swisscom. He also co-founded Sandbox, an international entrepreneurial platform, and oversaw its development as CEO. Sandbox provides networking opportunities for young entrepreneurs from all over the world.
In all of these roles, he has constantly endeavoured to promote new ideas, create networking opportunities and take organisations to the next level. He will focus on the same goals at the GDI.
Andrea Krapf, Head of Social Commitment Migros Group, is delighted: "In Nico Luchsinger, the GDI has appointed a visionary and highly experienced leader who fully understands networking and knows exactly how to drive innovative ideas forward. I have absolutely no doubt that he will further strengthen the GDI's position as a think-tank and provide tremendous impetus moving into the future."
"The GDI is a unique environment in which the major issues of our time are explored and new perspectives adopted. I am very much looking forward to working with the GDI team to progress bold ideas and advance dialogue on the future of society, the economy, technology and geopolitics," says Nico Luchsinger.
Jennifer Somm has led the GDI with a great deal of professionalism on an interim basis over the past few months, providing stability during an important period. She will continue in her role until 10 July 2026 and ensure a smooth transition. Migros wishes to thank her for her tremendous dedication and valuable contribution to the GDI.
Under Nico Luchsinger's leadership, the GDI aims to strengthen its role as a platform for new ideas and discussions, and continue to provide key insights into the major issues of our time.
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About the Gottlieb Duttweiler Institute
The Gottlieb Duttweiler Institute (GDI) is Switzerland’s oldest think-tank. A place of inspiration and innovation where strategic visions are expounded, the GDI brings together key decision-makers to shape the future of the economy and society. The GDI unites research and industry-relevant application to define path-breaking strategies in tandem with business. It provides management executives with high-level insights in the fields of retail, nutrition and health and delivers guidance in times of upheaval – always centring on social, technological and environmental changes. This institute, which operates independently, is supported by the Migros Culture Percentage.