Rieter has announced a leadership transition, with Thomas Oetterli stepping down as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) effective October 31, 2026. He will also hand over his role as Chairman of the Board of Directors.
Oetterli said the decision follows the successful implementation of the company’s Next Level performance programme, structural measures to consolidate its sites, and the acquisition of BARMEG. He noted that the time had come to transfer responsibility to new leadership.
The company’s Board of Directors thanked Oetterli for his commitment and contributions to Rieter’s strategic and operational development. It expressed confidence that the measures introduced under his leadership would strengthen the Group’s competitiveness and position it to benefit from a future market recovery.
Daniel Lippuner will assume the role of CEO on November 1, 2026. He brings extensive international management experience and knowledge of the textile machinery and components industry, having previously served as CEO of the Saurer Group and Head of Oerlikon Textile Components. His experience also includes leadership roles in chemical fibre technology through his association with Heberlein Technology.
Rieter said Lippuner’s background in business transformation, technology, quality management, operational leadership and Asian markets would be particularly relevant as the company expands its activities in man-made fibres alongside its established short-staple fibre business.
Carl Illi will serve as Chairman of the Board until Rieter’s next Annual General Meeting on April 14, 2027. A member of the Board since 2017, Illi is an experienced figure in the textile industry.
The leadership changes follow Rieter’s acquisition of BARMEG in February 2026, which expanded its traditional short-staple fibre business into the man-made fibre segment. The acquisition is intended to strengthen the Group’s technological capabilities, create additional growth opportunities and broaden the scope for digital solutions across the textile industry.
