With deep sadness, we report the passing of Heinrich Villiger, Chairman of the Board of Villiger Söhne Holding and Villiger Söhne.
Heinrich Villiger passed away peacefully on 25 July at the age of 95, his family has confirmed.
He led both companies with distinction as a third-generation member of the cigar-making family, and was instrumental in transforming the cigar manufacturer into the successful global business it is today.
His eldest daughter and Villiger Group Member of the Board of Directors Corina Villiger said, “It is with gratitude that we bid farewell to our father Heinrich Villiger, who has led the Villiger family business strategically and operationally with great commitment for 75 years.
“He loved cigars and cigarillos, and was a passionate entrepreneur and courageous visionary, setting a lasting mark on the tobacco industry in Switzerland and beyond. Our father leaves a big gap; the privilege of continuing the tradition of the family business in the fourth and fifth generations means a lot to us.”
Corina Villiger and Heinrich Villiger’s grandson, Lucien Villiger, have long served on the Board of Directors and will continue to represent the family on the committee, together with Rolf Kaufmann.
Jvo Grundler, Vice-Chairman of the Villiger Group Board of Directors since 2020, will assume the role of Chairman, with immediate effect.
In line with the succession planning, Heinrich Villiger selected Grundler as an independent board member and trusted advisor to ensure a balanced alignment of interests among the four descendants and their families.
Grundler is a lawyer and member of various boards of directors and foundations. He said, “Heinrich Villiger was an old-school patron who inspired employees, customers and business partners with his unique expertise, innovative spirit and entrepreneurial thinking. We will miss him very much.
“At the same time, I feel obliged and honoured to successfully develop the Villiger Group’s long-term strategy – together with the Board of Directors, the Executive.” ✈
