A month and a half after announcing the termination of Patrick Bloch's contract, the SIHF has found his successor: Martin Baumann. The 56-year-old, who will start his new job on November 4, has extensive sports management experience. He has been CEO of the Champions Hockey League AG for ten years, rebuilding and innovating the tournament. He previously held leadership roles in the financial sector at Julius Bär and Vontobel, and holds an Executive MBA.
Baumann was selected as the new CEO of the SIHF after a multi-stage process from over 100 applicants. SIHF's president Stefan Schärer is delighted to have been able to recruit Baumann: "He is a proven expert with extensive ice hockey know-how. With his expertise and leadership experience, he will make a significant contribution to implementing the Strategy 2030 and further developing our federation.”
Martin Baumann is eager to take on his new role: "My goal is to use my expertise in team leadership and the organization of global events to improve the profile of SIHF." Baumann also aims to "promote innovation, strengthen fan engagement, and build strong partnerships across different markets." With the appointment of Baumann, the current ad interim CEO Markus Graf will retire.